BSc in Psychology and Computer Science
The University of Victoria (UVic) offers a unique interdisciplinary program, the Bachel...
Bachelors in Global Development Studies (Optional Co-op)
Victoria
INTAKE: May & Sep
Program Overview
The Bachelor's in Global Development Studies program at the University of Victoria (UVic) provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the social, economic, political, and environmental dimensions of global development. This interdisciplinary program explores pressing global issues such as poverty, inequality, sustainability, and social justice, offering students the opportunity to examine development processes from diverse perspectives. The optional Co-op program enables students to gain practical experience in the field, preparing them for careers in international development, humanitarian aid, policy analysis, and advocacy.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor's in Global Development Studies program at UVic is designed to provide students with a broad foundation in development theory, policy, and practice. Core courses cover topics such as global governance, development economics, environmental sustainability, gender and development, and Indigenous perspectives on development. Elective courses allow students to tailor their studies to their interests, exploring specialized areas such as international aid, human rights, food security, or community development. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and experiential learning through fieldwork, case studies, and group projects.
Research Focus: UVic's Global Development Studies program has a strong research focus, with faculty members engaged in interdisciplinary research on a wide range of global development issues. Students in the program have the opportunity to participate in research projects, independent studies, and collaborative initiatives, working alongside faculty mentors to address complex development challenges. Research areas may include sustainable development goals, climate change adaptation, Indigenous rights, migration and displacement, and global health inequalities. UVic's research-intensive environment provides students with valuable opportunities to develop research skills and contribute to advancing knowledge in the field of global development.
Industry Engagement: The optional Co-op component of the Bachelor's in Global Development Studies program at UVic promotes industry engagement by providing students with opportunities for practical work experience in organizations and agencies involved in international development, humanitarian aid, and policy analysis. Co-op placements may include internships at non-governmental organizations (NGOs), government agencies, international organizations, research institutes, or community-based organizations. Through Co-op, students gain hands-on experience, develop professional skills, and build industry connections that enhance their career prospects upon graduation.
Global Perspective: UVic's Global Development Studies program encourages students to adopt a global perspective on development issues, recognizing the interconnectedness of social, economic, political, and environmental challenges across different regions and communities. Courses may include the study of global inequalities, colonial legacies, postcolonial theory, transnational activism, and global governance structures. Additionally, UVic's commitment to internationalization is supported by study abroad opportunities, exchange programs, and collaborations with international partners, providing students with opportunities to engage with global development issues firsthand and gain cross-cultural perspectives.
Location
Victoria
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
CAD 29716
Application Fees: CAD $188
Academic Requirements: International students applying to undergraduate programs at the University of Victoria are typically required to have completed their secondary education or its equivalent. The university requires a minimum overall academic average of 75% or equivalent, which may vary depending on the program and specific admission requirements.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: An overall band score of 6.5, with no individual band score less than 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum score of 90 on the internet-based test (iBT).
It's important to note that the specific entry requirements may vary depending on the program of study and can change over time. Some programs may have additional requirements, such as submission of a portfolio or completion of prerequisite courses.
The University of Victoria in Canada offers several scholarships and financial aid opportunities to international students. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the community.
International Entrance Scholarships: The university offers a range of entrance scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and range in value from CAD $5,000 to CAD $10,000. International students are automatically considered for these scholarships upon admission.
President's Scholarship for International Students: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to exceptional international students entering their first year of study at the University of Victoria. Valued at CAD $10,000, this scholarship recognizes academic excellence, leadership potential, and involvement in extracurricular activities.
International Undergraduate Scholarships: These scholarships are available to international students entering undergraduate programs at the University of Victoria. The scholarships are merit-based and vary in value. They are awarded to students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievements and community engagement.
Faculty-specific Scholarships: Some faculties at the University of Victoria offer scholarships specifically for international students within their respective academic programs. These scholarships are awarded based on criteria established by each faculty and may vary in value and eligibility requirements.
Graduates of the Bachelor's in Global Development Studies program at the University of Victoria (UVic) are equipped with a versatile skill set that prepares them for diverse career paths in the field of international development, policy analysis, advocacy, and research.
International Development Specialist: International development specialists work with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international organizations, government agencies, and philanthropic foundations to design, implement, and evaluate development projects and programs. They may focus on areas such as poverty alleviation, education, healthcare, gender equality, environmental sustainability, or community empowerment, working to improve the lives of marginalized communities in developing countries.
Policy Analyst/Researcher: Policy analysts and researchers work for think tanks, research institutes, government agencies, and advocacy organizations, conducting research and analysis on global development issues and policy trends. They analyze data, assess the effectiveness of development policies and programs, and provide evidence-based recommendations to policymakers, stakeholders, and the public to inform decision-making processes and advocate for policy changes.
Humanitarian Aid Worker: Humanitarian aid workers provide emergency relief and assistance to populations affected by natural disasters, armed conflicts, and other humanitarian crises. They work for international humanitarian organizations, such as the United Nations agencies, the Red Cross/Red Crescent movement, and international NGOs, delivering food, shelter, medical care, and other essential services to displaced persons and vulnerable communities in crisis situations.
Community Development Officer: Community development officers work with local communities, grassroots organizations, and civil society groups to facilitate participatory development processes and empower marginalized groups to address their own development needs. They collaborate with community members to identify priorities, mobilize resources, and implement sustainable development projects that promote social inclusion, economic empowerment, and environmental sustainability.
Advocacy/NGO Worker: Advocacy workers and NGO professionals work for non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, and social movements, advocating for human rights, social justice, environmental sustainability, and equitable development outcomes. They raise awareness about pressing global issues, mobilize public support for policy changes, and campaign for the rights and well-being of marginalized populations, both locally and internationally.
Research Associate/Assistant: Research associates and assistants work with academic institutions, research centers, and international organizations, assisting with research projects, data collection, analysis, and report writing on global development topics. They may support faculty researchers, program evaluators, or policy analysts in conducting empirical research, literature reviews, and case studies to contribute to the academic knowledge base and inform development practice.
