Program Overview
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts with a major, minor, or extended minor in Global Development Studies (GDS) at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is designed to equip students with hands-on skills to launch a career in aid, relief, or development in Canada or abroad.
Program Description
The program offers an in-depth multi-disciplinary perspective by studying in areas such as economics, political science, geography, sociology, statistics, anthropology, business, and communications. Students develop critical thinking and intercultural abilities, as well as sought-after management, research, advocacy, and writing skills.
Fieldwork Internship
Students participate in a fieldwork internship in Canada or abroad, which provides work experience, professional connections, and invaluable insights into the dynamics of development. GDS internships are also available to students in other disciplines, such as geography, business, nursing, social work, or criminology.
Career Outlook
Global development is a well-funded industry, with member countries of the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) donating USD 153.0 billion in official development assistance (ODA) in 2018.
Career Opportunities
Global development offers a diverse range of career opportunities in administration, research, fundraising, training, advocacy, and relief work. Graduates can work for government agencies, international organizations, NGOs, private companies, or research institutes.
Specialized Qualifications
Adding specialized qualifications, such as logistics, urban planning, accounting, nursing, agriculture, or IT, to the Bachelor of Arts in Global Development Studies can boost employment opportunities in international development. With substantial field experience, graduates may find freelance work as a trainer, consultant, or advisor.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
- The Global Development Studies (GDS) program at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) prepares students for careers in development work, aiming to improve communities and alleviate poverty.
Objectives:
- Equip students with hands-on skills for careers in aid, relief, and development.
- Help students build critical thinking and intercultural skills.
- Develop sought-after management, research, advocacy, and writing skills.
Program Description:
- The GDS program offers a multi-disciplinary approach, studying economics, political science, geography, sociology, statistics, anthropology, business, and communications.
- Students participate in a fieldwork internship in Canada or abroad to gain practical experience and professional connections.
Outline:
Program Content:
- Interdisciplinary approach encompassing economics, political science, geography, sociology, statistics, anthropology, business, and communications.
- Focus on areas like poverty reduction, education, health, community development, and sustainable development.
Structure:
- Option to pursue a major, minor, or extended minor in GDS.
Faculty:
- The program features committed and engaged faculty actively involved in global development activities.
Unique Approaches:
- Hands-on learning through fieldwork internships.
Careers:
Career Paths:
- Development professional
- Social enterprise
- Global food security
- Urban planning
Career Opportunities:
- Government agencies
- International organizations
- NGOs
- Private companies
- Research institutes
Career Outcomes:
- Graduates are prepared to launch careers in various development-related fields.
- They can pursue further studies in policy development, law, international relations, or public administration.
Other:
Global Development Industry:
- Well-funded industry with member countries of the Development Assistance Committee donating USD 153.0 billion in official development assistance (ODA) in 2018.
Adding Qualifications:
- Adding specialized qualifications like logistics, urban planning, accounting, nursing, agriculture, or IT can boost employment opportunities.
Freelance Work:
- With substantial field experience, graduates may find freelance work as trainers, consultants, or advisors.
Entry Requirements:
Domestic Students:
- A minimum of 60% average in the best 4 academic Grade 12 courses including English 12 (or equivalent).
- Completion of the English 12 Provincial Exam with a minimum "C" grade.
- Completion of Pre-Calculus 11 (or equivalent).
- Completion of Principles of Mathematics 11 (or equivalent).
International Students:
- An equivalent to the BC high school graduation diploma.
- Completion of an English language proficiency assessment with a minimum score of:
- TOEFL: 88 (Internet-based)
- IELTS: 6.5 (academic)
- PTE Academic: 65
- CAE: 176
- CPE: 176
Language Proficiency Requirements:
All applicants, regardless of their first language, must demonstrate English language proficiency. The following tests are accepted:
- TOEFL: Minimum score of 88 (Internet-based)
- IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5 (academic)
- PTE Academic: Minimum score of 65
- CAE: Minimum score of 176
- CPE: Minimum score of 176 Students who have completed a degree from a recognized institution where the language of instruction was English are exempt from providing English language proficiency test scores.
