Why take International Development Studies at Dal?

We bring the world to class

Some of the biggest movements for social change have started on university campuses. Why stop now? International Development Studies at Dalhousie teaches you how to be a responsible and informed global citizen. You'll learn to think critically and act on a global scale as you try to find solutions to big problems.  

Degree overview

Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor of Arts, BA
Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Department: Department of International Development Studies
Campus: Studley Campus, Halifax
Program Length: 4 years
Program Start: September & January



What will I learn?

Core IDS courses introduce you to a broad overview of the themes and issues which define the study of international development—the challenges of debt, development assistance, aid and disasters. These core courses consider international development from a variety of viewpoints, whether liberal, socialist, conservative or populist.

Sample courses:

  • Development and Activism: Methods of Organization, Manifestation and Dissent
  • Halifax and the World, Part I
  • Popular Culture and Development

The International Development Studies Experiential Learning Program goes beyond “work for credit,” “volunteer placements” or “co-ops,” with an innovative approach that combines coursework with volunteer placements, providing students with the academic space to critically reflect upon their experiences, and what it means to be a volunteer in society.

Visit the Academic Calendar to view degree options and course details.



Careers and future study

We train people to be active, engaged and informed citizens. Your IDS degree will allow you to understand many foundational elements of our society: history, economics, sociology and politics. A degree in International Development Studies provides a great background for many social careers, including:

  • foreign correspondent
  • teacher
  • international aid worker
  • immigration officer
  • economic development officer
     

Future studies could include programs at the graduate level in international development studies, sociology and social anthropology or non-profit business administration. Or you might choose to complete a professional degree in law or a health profession.



Admission requirements

Undergraduate admission requirements vary based on your previous education and your intended program of study at Dalhousie. Learn about our admissions requirements, book a campus tour, or connect with an advisor if you have questions about your eligibility for admission.

View admission requirements



Ready to apply?