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Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

PDF Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

International Development Studies (Co-op) (IDS:C)

Interdisciplinary Program

International Development Studies, College of Social and Applied Human Sciences

The program in International Development Studies (IDS) explores the nature and impacts of economic and social development, in Canada and across the globe, from an interdisciplinary perspective. It equips students with the theoretical understanding and analytical and practical skills needed to bring about positive and inclusive change in the world. Students completing a degree in IDS have the skills to tackle complex global problems as needed to promote social justice as citizens and in careers across the public and private sectors and in civil society organizations.

The IDS program provides students with the opportunity to engage with international development practitioners in Canada and internationally. Furthermore, they are equipped with the skills needed for effective engagement whilst as students and in their life beyond university.

Students select an area of emphasis that enables them to explore an issue of particular interest using the skills they develop in the core part of the program. This area of emphasis is selected by the end of the 4th academic semester of study.

International Development Studies students are encouraged to learn another language and to participate in relevant learning experiences beyond the IDS program, including study, work or volunteering in Canada and internationally. In addition to the required core courses and the chosen area of emphasis, students are encouraged to take electives that complement their degree and enhance their analytical and communication skills. See the GIDS website for more information on these opportunities or talk to your academic advisor.

Students with a minimum cumulative average of 80% in courses that constitute the IDS major may complete a thesis (IDEV*4100 and IDEV*4150) under the supervision of an ID-affiliated faculty member.

Program Requirements

The Co-op program in International Development is a four and a half year program, including four work terms. Students must complete a Fall, Winter and Summer work term, and must follow the academic work schedule as outlined below (also found on the Co-operative Education website: https://www.recruitguelph.ca/cecs/). Please refer to the Co-operative Education program policy with respect to adjusting this schedule.

To be eligible to continue in the Co-op program, students must meet a minimum 70% cumulative average requirement after second semester, as well as meet all work term requirements. Please refer to the Co-operative Education program policy with respect to work term performance grading, work term report grading and program completion requirements.

For additional program information students should consult with their Co-op Co-ordinator and Co-op Faculty Advisor, listed on the Co-operative Educationweb site.