International Development Studies
Supervisor of Studies: ccds-advisor@utsc.utoronto.ca
Phone: (416) 287-7511
Co-op Co-ordinator: Katie Boomgaardt
Phone: (416) 287-7113
Programs offered:
Specialist (B.A),
Specialist (B.SC),
Major,
Minor,
Co-op
Courses Offered: 2012-2013
Our programs provide students with a critical understanding of international development issues through exposure to a variety of academic disciplines, cultures, and, in the case of the specialist co-op program, an overseas work experience in the field of international development. The IDS programs are challenging and intended for bright and self motivated students who are interested in both excelling academically and actively engaging themselves in the pursuit of social justice around such issues as poverty, inequality, and oppression. The students in the IDS program take initiatives, seek empowerment, are driven to solve social and environmental problems, understand the importance of teamwork and coordination, and are responsible and accountable. They have diverse interests that span the social sciences, humanities, and environmental science, all of which is underpinned by a strong sense of social responsibility.
The specific objectives of our IDS programs are to:- provide a broad understanding of different development paths and of the complex set of international and domestic factors affecting their success and sustainability;
- develop sensitivities to and an awareness of the reality in developing countries their cultures, their societies, their political systems, and their position within the global arena;
- provide skills and opportunities for IDS students to share their experience and insights, to enhance awareness of development issues at the university, and in the broader community, and to promote work on development within Canada,
- (in the case of specialist co-op program), provide practical work experience in a different culture under the supervision of a Canadian or Southern non-governmental organization (NGO), research institute, multilateral organization, or private partner; and
- develop partnerships with individuals and organizations in the Global South working in international development.