Develop a Global Mindset

Explore the World

Serve the Underserved

International Development Studies Program (IDS) prepares students to address the interconnected processes of social, political, economic, cultural, and environmental change taking place around the world. IDS focuses on the roles and impacts of global/local actors. Students learn how to apply specialized knowledge gained through a major when collaborating on multidisciplinary teams to help resolve global challenges highlighted by the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030, including poverty, hunger, health disparities, gender inequality, clean water and sanitation, disruption of ecosystems, climate change, displacement & migration, peace & justice. IDS offers an interdisciplinary minor and a graduate certificate for students interested in international or domestic development work. IDS goes well with any major! This program also is the home of UM’s nationally recognized Peace Corps Prep program.