Global Migration & Refugee Studies
Study alongside global experts, examining the nature and dynamics of cross-border population movements from social, political, economic, and environmental angles. Students in this specialization address real-world social challenges through study abroad opportunities and through work with community organizations, government agencies and NGOs.
Required Courses:
Graduating students who have fulfilled the requirements for a single- or joint-major Honours degree in International Development Studies may apply for a Specialization in Global Migration and Refugee Studies if they have successfully completed the following 4.0 credits:
- 0.5 IDST credit consisting of IDST 4120H
- 2.0 IDST credits from IDST 3701H/3711H/3722H, 3801D, 3850H, 4011Y/4021D, or 4221Y
- Explore migration issues and address real-world problems by working with community partners like the New Canadian Centre, or take advantage of the department’s year abroad program – combining third year course work with hands-on learning opportunities.1.5 credits from IDST 3120H, IDST 3121H, IDST 4750H, CAST-GEOG-GESO-POST 2245H, SOCI 3661H, or SWRK 3108H
Degrees Offered:
- B.A.
- B.A. (Honours)
Locations:
- Peterborough
Resume Boosters:
- Learn from a range of experts in fields such as migration studies, political science, anthropology, sociology, social work, and economics, for a truly interdisciplinary approach to human migration
- Gain a global perspective on migration issues through the Trent-in-Ghana Program, or complete a 4-6 week field course in Turkey or Ecuador
- Put theory into practice through a community-based research project with migrant-focused community organizations
- Join the Student Association for International Development and contribute to the student run Community Movements Conference

Career Paths:
Featured
Human Rights Specialist
Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers conduct research, develop policy and implement or administer programs in areas such as consumer affairs, employment, home economics, immigration, law enforcement, corrections, human rights, housing, labour, family services, foreign aid and international development. They are employed by government departments and agencies, industry, hospitals, educational institutions, consulting establishments, professional associations, research institutes, non-government organizations and international organizations or they may be self-employed.
Career Opportunities
- Settlement Officer
- Immigration Lawyer
- Human Rights Officer
- Refugee Affairs Program Officer
- Economic Development Officer
- Community Education Coordinator
- Diplomat
- United Nations Official
- International Civil Servant
- Humanitarian Assistance Worker
- Disaster Relief Specialist
- Policy Analyst
- Social Worker
Admission Requirements
Ontario Secondary School Requirements:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- A minimum of six Grade 12 4U or 4M courses, including program specific prerequisites
Program Requirements:
- A minimum 70% overall final average
- ENG 4U with a minimum of 60%
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