Program Overview
The Development Studies program at St. Francis Xavier University equips students with knowledge and leadership skills to address social and climate justice issues. Rooted in the Antigonish Movement, the interdisciplinary program combines critical thinking with practical opportunities to apply development theories in community-based settings. Graduates are prepared for careers in various fields, including community development, international relations, and education.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- Development Studies is a program for undergraduate students interested in learning about development theories and practices, particularly at the community level, in the Global South, Canada, and the Atlantic region.
- The interdisciplinary program is rooted in the Antigonish Movement, a social and economic movement supporting community-based development and the global outreach of the Coady International Institute.
- Development Studies combines critical thinking with practical opportunities to put theories of social and climate justice into practice.
- This program equips students with the knowledge and leadership skills to build a better world.
Outline:
- Development Studies courses begin in the first year with DEVS 101, introducing the field, exploring colonialism, Indigenous people, gender and development, environment and climate change, food insecurity, human rights and diversity, human displacement and migration, and economic relations.
- Students can complete an Honours, Advanced Joint Major, Joint Major, Minor, Subsidiary, or Pair in Development Studies.
Careers:
- The interdisciplinary program provides a foundation for further study and careers in various areas, including community and international development, humanitarian and social justice work, urban and rural planning, law, journalism, economics, government, international relations, and education.
- Development Studies equips students to adapt to the ever-changing dynamics of global society.
Other:
- Students learn about development in Atlantic Canada and beyond, collaborating with university faculty, development professionals from the Coady International Institute, and other development-focused agents.
- Students meet community leaders from Africa, Asia, and Latin America and may visit a community development project through an internship or service learning trip in another country.
- The specific details of the Development Studies program may be subject to change.
St. Francis Xavier University
Overview:
St. Francis Xavier University (StFX) is a renowned Canadian university located in the charming town of Antigonish, Nova Scotia. It is consistently recognized as one of Canada's best universities, particularly for its undergraduate programs. StFX prides itself on its small campus size, which fosters a close-knit community and provides ample opportunities for students to learn, grow, and thrive.
Services Offered:
StFX offers a comprehensive range of services to support students in their academic and personal endeavors. These include:
Academic Services:
Academic advising, accessible learning, academic success center, tutoring, and library resources.Support Services:
Health and counselling services, human rights and equity support, sexual violence prevention and response, student career center, childcare, chaplaincy, and IT services.Student Life:
New student orientation, transition programs, campus life activities, student societies, and resources for living off-campus.University Housing:
Residence options, dining services, and information for living away from home.International:
International exchange opportunities, international travel support, and advising for international students.Student Life and Campus Experience:
StFX offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience. Students can expect:
Close-knit community:
The small campus size fosters a strong sense of community and allows students to build meaningful relationships with peers and faculty.Experiential learning:
StFX is highly ranked for its experiential learning opportunities, providing students with practical experience through co-op programs, internships, research opportunities, and service learning initiatives.Active campus life:
Students can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including student societies, sports, arts, and cultural events.Beautiful campus:
StFX is known for its picturesque campus, located in a charming town with a rich history and culture.Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong academic reputation:
StFX is consistently ranked among Canada's top universities, particularly for its undergraduate programs.Small class sizes:
Students benefit from personalized attention and close interaction with professors in small class settings.Experiential learning opportunities:
StFX provides numerous opportunities for students to gain practical experience and apply their knowledge in real-world settings.Vibrant campus community:
The close-knit community fosters a sense of belonging and provides ample opportunities for students to connect with peers and faculty.Beautiful location:
StFX is situated in a charming town with a rich history and culture, offering a unique and enriching environment for students.Academic Programs:
StFX offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional diploma programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts:
Anthropology, Applied Forensic Psychology, Aquatic Resources, Art, Catholic Studies, Celtic Studies, Classical Studies, Development Studies, Economics, English, Health, History, Humanities Colloquium, Modern Languages, Music, Philosophy, Political Science, Public Policy and Governance, Religious Studies, Social Justice Colloquium, Sociology, Women's and Gender Studies, and Psychology.Business:
Accounting, Business Intelligence and Analytics, Enterprise Systems, Entrepreneurship and Human Nutrition, Entrepreneurship, Finance, International Business, Management & Leadership, and Marketing.Education:
Bachelor of Education, Master of Adult Education, Master of Education, and Ph.D. in Education.Science:
Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Engineering, Human Kinetics, Human Nutrition, Math & Statistics, Nursing, and Physics.Other:
StFX is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus environment. The university has a dedicated Diversity Engagement Centre that provides support and resources for students from various backgrounds, including Black students, Indigenous students, and international students. StFX also has a strong focus on research, with numerous research chairs, institutes, centers, and networks dedicated to advancing knowledge and innovation.
Entry Requirements:
High School Students:
- Canadian: A minimum average of 70% on six Grade 12 courses, including English and any other prerequisites specific to the program of study.
- International Baccalaureate (IB) Students: A minimum of 24 points overall and a minimum of 4 points in each Higher Level (HL) subject.
- Transfer Students: A minimum overall GPA of 2.5 on 24 semester credit hours of transferable post-secondary courses.
- Mature Students: Individuals who are 21 years of age or older and who do not have a high school diploma may be considered for admission based on their life experience and prior academic achievements.
International Overseas Students Outside the EU:
- Required Documents:
- Official transcripts
- Secondary school leaving certificate
- Letter of Recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Proof of English proficiency - See Language Proficiency Requirements section below
- Financial affidavit
- Academic Requirements:
- Equivalent of a Canadian high school diploma with a minimum average of 70%.
- Specific prerequisites may vary depending on the program of study.
EU Home Students:
- The university may consider other factors such as extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and volunteer work.
- Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis. It is recommended that students apply early to increase their chances of acceptance.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate their English proficiency by achieving a minimum score on one of the following tests:
- TOEFL iBT: 88 overall with a minimum of 22 in each section
- IELTS: 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each band
- Duolingo English Test: 120 overall
- PTE Academic: 65 overall
Note:
Students who have completed their secondary education in a country where English is the official language of instruction may be exempt from these requirements.
Alternative English Language Proficiency Demonstration:
- Completion of an approved English language program.
- Successful completion of the university's English Language Program (ELP). The specific requirements may vary depending on the program of study you are interested in.
