Overview

The International Development Studies programme at Portland State University provides students with a deep understanding of the complex challenges facing developing nations today. This curriculum examines how political, economic, and cultural forces intersect to shape living conditions and social structures across the globe. Students develop a critical perspective on environmental vulnerabilities and socio-economic disparities through a rigorous academic framework.

Why International Development Studies at Portland State University?

Choosing this major allows students to learn from exceptional faculty members who possess extensive research and teaching experience across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The curriculum is highly flexible and interdisciplinary, allowing individuals to tailor their education to specific professional goals. The university's location in downtown Portland provides a vibrant backdrop for academic growth and networking.

Students benefit from personalised advising and access to over 200 credit-bearing study abroad opportunities. These international programmes include placements in developing regions throughout the Middle East and Latin America, offering first-hand experience in global development contexts. The department focuses on cutting-edge topics such as sustainable development and social movements to ensure graduates remain competitive.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 34599 per year
National fee: USD 34599 per year
Local fee: USD 12999 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the intersections of power, economy, and culture. Modules may include:

Poverty and Inequality
Social and Environmental Movements
Sustainable Development
Global History
Environmental Vulnerabilities
Socio-economic Inequalities

Careers with International Development Studies

Graduates are well-equipped for diverse roles within the nonprofit, private, and government sectors. The programme provides a strong foundation for those seeking to work with international aid organisations, such as the International Red Cross, or within state agencies focused on global affairs. Many alumni also find success in journalism, media, and business incubators.

Common career paths and employer types include:

Nonprofits focused on health, education, and gender rights
International businesses and trade organisations
Government agencies and grassroots organisations
Food systems and sustainability consultancy
Graduate studies in Political Science, Urban Studies, or Public Health

Whether pursuing opportunities overseas or within the United Kingdom and United States, the degree offers the analytical tools necessary for professional advancement in the field of international relations and global development.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

International Studies

Environment and Development in Latin America

Commodity Chains: From Silver to Cocaine

Gender and Development

Amazon Rainforest

Modern Brazil

Post-Colonial Studies of Africa

Globalization and Forced Migration

Global Studies

The United States and the World

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-30 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-06 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-05 00:00:00
Starting 2027-03-31 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-05 00:00:00
Starting 2027-07-22 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-07-05 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

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Credits

180 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Blended

Campus Location

Portland, United States

Disciplines

International Relations International Development International Business View 127 other Bachelors in International Development in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

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Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You must have a cumulative (overall) grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 when converted to the U.S. 4.0 grading scale.
Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement. You may be admitted to Portland State University and an Intensive English Language Program (IELP) pathway if you do not meet PSU's English Language Proficiency Requirement. Learn more about PSU’s English language programs.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Out-of-State

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12999 USD / year

≈ 12999 USD / year

Living costs

Portland

United States

1271 - 2262 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for International Development Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Portland

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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