International Development Studies (BA)
Explore global challenges and issues such as poverty, inequality, climate change, conflict, health, Indigenous rights, and human rights. Build the knowledge, practical experience, and global perspective to understand complex issues, explore solutions, and create positive change in your community and around the world.
Why choose this program?
Want to understand the world and help create positive change? International Development Studies explores global challenges such as poverty, inequality, migration, climate change, conflict, human rights, health, and sustainable development. You'll learn to look at these issues from different perspectives and understand how local and global issues are connected.
A standout program at Dal
ÆÞÓÑ’s International Development Studies department is recognized by as a standout program at ÆÞÓÑ. Through interdisciplinary study and opportunities to connect your learning with real-world issues and communities, you can build the knowledge, skills and global perspective to make a difference.
"Great opportunity for international experiences that enhance learning." − Olivia Pavan, Class of '25
Careers
International Develoment Studies graduates combine global knowledge with practical skills that prepare them for careers in international organizations, government, non-profits, community development, journalism, education, and many other fields.
Graduates work in international development, humanitarian organizations, government, immigration, education, policy, sustainability, news organizations, and community development. The program also provides excellent preparation for graduate studies, law, health professions, and public policy.
What you will learn
Develop a deeper understanding of global development while building skills in research, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking. You'll explore how history, politics, economics, culture, and the environment shape communities around the world.
Sample courses
Halifax and the World 1 and 2
Global Justice and Development 1 and 2
- Development PracticeÌý
- Development and Activism
- Global Health in the 21st Century
- Contemporary Issues in Gender and DevelopmentÌý
- Honours Thesis Course A and B
- Capstone Class
Experiential learning is a core part of the IDS program. Students can complete internships, volunteer placements, community-based research, and study abroad opportunities in both Canadian and international settings.
Past experiences have included placements with organizations in Halifax, East and West Africa, Latin America and other global communities, giving students practical experience while building professional skills.
Get paid work experience
Dal Arts students can apply for the FASS Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Pilot Program, which offers a one-semester paid work term where you put what you learn in the classroom into practice, build career-ready skills and gain experience in the workplace.
Learn beyond the classroom
The IDS Experiential Learning Program combines coursework with practical experiences that let you put your learning into action. Volunteer or intern with community organizations, take part in research and community-based projects, or gain experience in Halifax and around the world. Build practical skills, explore your interests and reflect on real-world issues and your role in the communities you engage with.
Customize your degree
Shape your studies around the issues that interest you. Choose a major, double major, combined honours or minor pathway, and connect IDS with fields such as Biology, History, Political Science, Sociology, Economics or Environmental Science. Combine fields to explore different perspectives and create a degree that fits your interests and goals.
MajorÌý
Double MajorÌýÌý
Combined HonoursÌý
Concentrated HonoursÌýÌý
- Minor
Not sure which option is right for you? Connect with an academic advisor after you start your studies to explore your options.
Ìý
Human RightsÌý
SustainabilityÌýÌý
MigrationÌý
Gender and DevelopmentÌýÌý
Global HealthÌý
Indigenous PeoplesÌýÌý
Rural DevelopmentÌý
Global CitizenshipÌý
Build the knowledge, experience and global perspective to understand complex issues, explore solutions and make a difference in your community and beyond. Prepare for a wide range of careers, further studies and opportunities around the world.
Admission requirements
Minimum admission requirements
To be considered for admission to this program, you must meet minimum academic criteria:
- Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
- Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice.
- Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course).
Admission to many ÆÞÓÑ programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Program-specific admission requirements
Minimum overall average: 70%
Academic English 12
Four additional academic subjects
International Development Studies eligibility:
You’ll enter the International Development Studies program after completing about 30 credit hours. You’ll also need to study a language in addition to English, with options including French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Italian or Russian.
Connect with an academic advisor after you start at Dal to plan your courses and make sure you’re on the right path.
