International and Development Studies — Associate of Arts
Program Overview
The International and Development Studies (IDS) program at the University of the Fraser Valley is a two-year Associate of Arts degree that equips students with knowledge and skills for careers in international development, intercultural communication, and global issues. The program focuses on Latin America, exploring its history, politics, and contemporary development challenges. Students gain hands-on experience through field schools, study tours, and community engagement, preparing them for careers in international organizations, NGOs, and other fields related to international development.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
International and Development Studies (IDS)
is a two-year Associate of Arts (AA) degree offered by the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV). This program equips students with the knowledge and skills to pursue careers in international development, intercultural communication, and global issues.
Objectives:
- Provide students with a comprehensive understanding of international development issues, including historical, political, economic, social, and cultural factors.
- Develop critical thinking and intercultural awareness, preparing students for work in diverse environments.
- Equip students with research, advocacy, and writing skills relevant to the field of international development.
- Offer opportunities for hands-on experience through field schools, study tours, and engagement with community organizations.
Program Description:
The IDS program focuses on Latin America and explores the region's historical and political landscape, the impact of colonialism on indigenous cultures, and contemporary development challenges. Students examine international development initiatives through various lenses, including gender, environment, health, education, human rights, fair trade, and globalization.
Outline:
Courses:
The specific courses offered in the IDS program may vary, but the curriculum typically covers topics such as:
- Introduction to International Development
- History of Latin America
- Indigenous Cultures of Latin America
- Globalization and Development
- Environmental Issues in Development
- Gender and Development
- Human Rights and Development
- International Development Organizations
- Project Management in Development
Modules:
The program may be organized into modules, with each module focusing on a specific theme or region.
Field School/Study Tour:
Students have the opportunity to participate in an optional field school or study tour to gain hands-on experience in an international development context.
Independent Study:
Students may pursue independent study projects related to their interests within the field of international development.
Lectures and Discussions:
The program uses lectures, discussions, and group activities to foster critical thinking and student engagement.
Assessment:
Assessment methods may include:
- Exams
- Essays
- Research papers
- Presentations
- Participation in class discussions
- Fieldwork or project reports
Assessment criteria may focus on:
- Knowledge and understanding of international development concepts
- Critical thinking and analysis
- Research skills
- Communication skills
- Teamwork and collaboration
Teaching:
Teaching methods may include:
- Interactive lectures
- Group discussions
- Case studies
- Simulations
- Guest speakers
- Fieldwork supervision
Faculty:
The IDS program is taught by experienced faculty with expertise in international development, Latin American studies, and related fields.
Careers:
Graduates of the IDS program may pursue careers in:
- International development organizations
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Government agencies
- International organizations
- Think tanks
- Development consultancies
- Education and teaching
- Journalism and translation
- International aid work
- Law and human rights
Further studies:
Graduates may also choose to pursue further studies in related fields such as international relations, development studies, or Latin American studies.
Other:
Opportunities for community engagement:
Students are encouraged to engage in volunteer work with community organizations, church groups, or non-governmental organizations related to international issues.
Language skills:
Having additional language skills, particularly in Spanish or Portuguese, can increase job prospects in international settings.
Applicants whose first language is not English might need to present proof of proficiency through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.
