University of Toronto

Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in International Development Studies at the University of Toronto offers a comprehensive exploration of global development challenges through an interdisciplinary approach. Students engage with critical themes such as social inequality, health disparities, political economy, and environmental issues, all while connecting theoretical concepts with practical applications. This program prepares students to become informed global citizens equipped to address pressing international challenges.

What you'll study

Programme Structure

The BA in International Development Studies combines foundational principles of development with research and analytical training. The curriculum allows for customization through various course clusters, enabling students to align their studies with personal interests and career aspirations. The program typically includes a blend of core courses and electives, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

Indicative course areas

• Development and Environment
• International/Global Health
• Equity, Ethics, and Justice in International Development
• Comparative Development in International Perspective
• Political Economy of International Development
• Statistics for the Social Sciences
• Health Research Methodology
• Microeconomics and/or Macroeconomics (dependent on the chosen pathway)
• Project Management (as applicable to your pathway)
• Confronting Development’s Racist Past and Present (as applicable to your pathway)

Experiential Learning

Students have the opportunity to engage in co-op programs, which provide valuable supervised work experience related to international development practice, enhancing their academic learning with real-world application.

Capstone/Thesis

Requirements for the capstone or thesis component may vary by academic stream. Students are encouraged to review the current degree requirements for their specific pathway to determine whether a capstone project or major research thesis is necessary.

Entry requirements

To be eligible for admission to the BA in International Development Studies, applicants must have completed a senior-level English course or possess an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma with English at the Higher Level (HL) or Standard Level (SL). English proficiency can be demonstrated through various standardized tests, including the IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or the Duolingo English Test.

Career prospects

Graduates of the International Development Studies program are well-prepared for diverse career paths in the fields of international development, global health, social justice, and environmental sustainability. Potential career opportunities include roles in non-governmental organizations (NGOs), government agencies, international organizations, and the private sector, where they can contribute to positive social change on a global scale.