BA/BS in International Development Studies

International Development Studies is a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) major offered through the Guelph Institute of Development Studies. The program examines global challenges including poverty, food insecurity, humanitarian crises, and climate change, combining core coursework with a concentration in one of five areas of emphasis: Agriculture and Food Security, Inequalities and Social Justice in the Canadian Context, Politics and Conflict in Development, Environment and Sustainable Development, or Gender and Inclusive Development. The regular stream runs eight academic semesters (four years); a co-op option adds four work terms for a total of four and a half years. Students have opportunities for field schools in Guatemala, Costa Rica, the Yukon, and Ecuador, alongside study-abroad, internship, and volunteer placements. The curriculum requires a minimum of 10.00 credits, including 7.50 core credits and 2.50 credits within the chosen area of emphasis. Graduates pursue careers with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international development bodies.