Overview

The International Development Studies program at the University of Guelph is an interdisciplinary Bachelor of Arts degree that examines global issues of poverty, inequality, and sustainable development. Objectives include fostering critical thinking on development challenges, promoting ethical engagement with diverse communities, and equipping students with skills for addressing real-world problems. Unique features include a required community-based experiential learning course, opportunities for international study abroad, and an emphasis on integrating Canadian and global perspectives on development.

Career Prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers in international aid, policy-making, and advocacy. Common paths involve working with non-governmental organizations, government agencies, or international bodies to promote sustainable development and social justice.

Key Faculty/Staff

The program is supported by faculty from the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, including experts in global inequality, food security, and indigenous development. Specific notable staff include professors specializing in Latin American studies and environmental justice.

Unique Facilities or Partnerships

Students benefit from the university's partnerships with organizations like the United Nations and local NGOs for internships and research. The program utilizes the Experiential Learning Hub for hands-on projects and has ties to the Arboretum for sustainability-focused studies.