Program Overview
One of the most unique and dynamic programs found at UTSC, International Development Studies is a multidisciplinary study of how and why countries develop differently from each other. The Science stream of the Specialist Program addresses the major issues that are the focal point of among the world’s most influential international and national environment and development policy makers. Our prioritized focus on environmental biology as the specialized field in environmental science responds to demand by students for these interdisciplinary skills to achieve these career goals. Students will not only learn the complex dynamics of development theory, but will be given practical experience that is essential to professional development.
Complementary Programs: Minor Programs in Biology, Environmental Science, Human Geography, Health Studies, Public Policy
Check out future career opportunities and skills acquired from completing this program:
Competencies & Skills - Knowledge and understanding of the connections among issues such as inequality
- poverty
- and oppression
- Knowledge and application of key international policies governing issues in environment and development
- In-depth knowledge of environmental biology
- Analytical writing and communication
- Research design
- Project management and evaluation
Careers for Graduates - International Development Consultant
- Environmental Consultant
- Conservation Officer in Government Services
- Coordinator in Non-profits
- Development Officer
- Governance Officer
- Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist
- Policy Advisor
- Impact Investor
- Law/Legal Services
- Start-ups
- Social Innovation
Further Education - Biology
- Public Policy
- Environmental Science
- Sustainability
- Law School
- Teacher Education
- Project Management
- Energy Management
Program Pathway
Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4
Year 1
Choose Your Courses Wisely
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Writing and reading support is available at the CTL Writing Centre.
- Attend IDSSA facilitated study groups.
- Sign up for AA&CC study skills workshops on CLNx (>Events & Workshops).
- Attend the annual Winter Critical Hope Lecture.
Apply Theory to Practice
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
Plan for Your Future Career
Year 2
Choose Your Courses Wisely
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Schedule an appointment with your program librarian for in-depth library research assistance.
- Explore Research Assistant opportunities through the Work Study program on CLNx (>Jobs & Recruitment>Work Study).
- Contact Faculty members and inquire about research opportunities.
Apply Theory to Practice
- Research about experiential learning opportunities on campus: utsc.utoronto.ca/experiential.
- Connect with like-minded local organizations and explore skill building Work Study opportunities on CLNx (>Jobs & Recruitment>Work Study).
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
Plan for Your Future Career
Year 3
Choose Your Courses Wisely
- 0.5 credit from Methods for IDS courses: IDSC04H3.
- 2.0 credits from the following Advanced courses in Environmental Biology (0.5 credit must be at the D-level): BIOC37H3, BIOC58H3, BIOC61H3, BIOC62H3, BIOC63H3, EESC04H3, BIOD54H3, EESD06H3.
- 0.5 credit from the following Environmental Science in Practice courses: EESC13H3, GGRC26H3, GGRC44H3, IDSC02H3.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
Apply Theory to Practice
- Consider enrolling in IDSC20H3 and learn about the challenges faced by communities in their interactions with a range of development actors, including international development agencies, local Non Governmental Organizations (NGO), state actors and universities.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
Plan for Your Future Career
Year 4
Choose Your Courses Wisely
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Apply for the CCDS Faculty Mentorship Project or consider completing a Supervised/Independent Research Project in IDSD14H3 / IDSD15H3.
Apply Theory to Practice
- Consider participating in the International Development Conference at UTSC; visit the ISC for details.
- Consider enrolling in IDSD19H3 and explore whether such engagements offer opportunities for effective social change and improved theory.
- Attend the Summer & Full-time Job Fair in January to meet with potential employers.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
Plan for Your Future Career
- Meet with your Program Supervisor/Advisor regarding applying to graduate studies.
- Get your Personal Statement reviewed in the AA&CC.
- Attend the AA&CC’s Get Hired job search conference in April/May.
- Attend a Jobs for Grads orientation for a job search “crash course.”