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.
Overview:
University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is a public university located in British Columbia, Canada. It offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, diplomas, and certificates. UFV is known for its commitment to accessibility and its focus on providing a student-centered learning experience.
Services Offered:
UFV provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
Guidance on program selection, course registration, and academic planning.Library:
Access to a vast collection of books, journals, and online resources.Student Services:
Support for student life, including financial aid, career counseling, and health and wellness services.IT Service Desk:
Technical support for students and faculty.Bookstore:
Purchase textbooks, course materials, and UFV merchandise.Shuttle Bus:
Transportation between UFV campuses and surrounding areas.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UFV offers a vibrant campus life with opportunities for students to engage in a variety of activities, including:
Clubs and Organizations:
Join student groups based on interests, hobbies, and career aspirations.Athletics:
Participate in varsity sports or recreational activities.Events:
Attend campus events, concerts, and workshops.Community Engagement:
Get involved in volunteer opportunities and community initiatives.Key Reasons to Study There:
Accessible and Inclusive Environment:
UFV is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive learning environment for all students.Student-Centered Approach:
The university prioritizes student success and provides personalized support.Diverse Programs:
A wide range of academic programs cater to various interests and career goals.Strong Faculty:
Experienced and dedicated faculty members provide high-quality instruction.Vibrant Campus Life:
Opportunities for students to connect with peers, explore their passions, and build a sense of community.Academic Programs:
UFV offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Agriculture:
Agricultural Science, Agriculture Management, Agriculture Technology, and various certificates.Aviation:
Aviation Diploma, Aviation Bachelor of Business Administration, and Integrated Studies with an Aviation theme.Business and Management:
Accounting, Applied Business Technology, Aviation Bachelor of Business Administration, Business Administration, Economics, Marketing and Sales, and various certificates.Computer Systems and Technology:
Architectural Drafting Technician, Automation and Robotics Technician, Computer Information Systems, Computing Science, Digital Manufacturing, Engineering Common Core, Engineering Physics, Geographic Information Systems, Library Information and Technology, Media Arts, and Data Analysis.Creative Arts and Design:
Creative Writing, Fine Arts, Graphic and Digital Design, Media and Communication Studies, Media Arts, Theatre, Visual Arts, and various diplomas.Earth and Environmental Sciences:
Agricultural Science, Environmental Studies, Biology, Geography, Physical Geography, and Geographic Information Systems.Education:
Adult Education, Early Childhood Education, Education, Educational Leadership and Mentorship, Integrated Learning Design, Mindfulness-Based Teaching and Learning, School and Community Support Worker, and Teaching English as a Second Language.Graduate Studies:
Criminal Justice, Educational Leadership and Mentorship, Migration and Citizenship, Mindfulness-Based Teaching and Learning, Program Evaluation, and Social Work.Health Sciences and Services:
Certified Dental Assistant, Child Life and Community Health, Health Care Assistant, Kinesiology, Nursing, and Practical Nursing.History and Culture:
Applied Ethical and Political Philosophy, Art History, Arts, Creative Writing, Diaspora Studies, English, French, History, Indigenous Studies, Language Proficiency, Latin American Studies, Liberal Arts, Philosophy, Stó:lō Studies, and Theatre.Indigenous Studies:
Indigenous Studies, Social Service Worker (Indigenous Focus), and Stó:lō Studies.Interdisciplinary Programs:
Diaspora Studies, Early Modern Studies, General Studies, Global Development Studies, Graphic Design, India-Canada Studies, Indigenous Studies, Integrated Learning Design, Integrated Studies, Latin American Studies, Peace and Conflict Studies, and various certificates.Media and Communications:
Arts, Communications, Creative Writing, English, Essentials of Journalism, French, Graphic and Digital Design, Language Proficiency, Liberal Arts, Media and Communication Studies, Media Arts, Media Literacy, and Professional Communications Essentials.Office Administration:
Applied Business Technology, Advanced Medical Office Assistant, Bookkeeping for Small Business, Dental Office Receptionist, Legal Administrative Assistant, Medical Office Assistant, Nursing Unit Clerk, Records Management, and Veterinary Administrative Assistant.Legal and Criminal Justice:
Criminal Justice, Political Science, Legal Administrative Assistant, Paralegal, and various diplomas.Sciences:
Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, Computing Science, Engineering Common Core, Engineering Physics, Geographic Information Systems, Mathematics & Statistics, Physical Geography, Physics, Data Analysis, Science, and various diplomas.Social Work & Human Services:
Child and Youth Care, Diaspora Studies, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, School and Community Support Worker, Social Service Worker, Social Work, and various diplomas.Society, Politics, and Policy:
Applied Ethical and Political Philosophy, Arts, Criminal Justice, Economics, Geography, Global Development Studies, International and Development Studies, Liberal Arts, Peace and Conflict Studies, Political Science, Program Evaluation, Psychology, and Sociology.Trades:
Architectural Drafting Technician, Collision Repair and Refinish, Automation and Robotics Technician, Automotive Service, Cabinetmaking, Carpentry, Culinary Arts, Digital Manufacturing, Electrician, Electronics Technician, Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation, Plumbing and Piping, Trades Management, and Welding.Upgrading:
Adult Basic Education, English Language Studies, and Workplace TASK.Other:
UFV is situated on the traditional territory of the Stó:lō peoples. The university acknowledges and respects the Stó:lō's historical and cultural connection to the land.
Applicants whose first language is not English might need to present proof of proficiency through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.
