Bachelor of Arts in International Development
Create Sustainable Solutions. Transform Communities.
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About the Program
Developing Sustainable Solutions
The Bachelor of Arts in International Development at the University of St. Thomas prepares students to address some of the world’s most pressing economic, social, and humanitarian challenges. As countries confront issues such as poverty, inequality, public health, food security, environmental sustainability, and economic development, there is a growing demand for leaders who can develop practical, ethical, and sustainable solutions across cultures and institutions.
The UST Advantage
Solve Complex Human Issues
The International Development degree program program provides an interdisciplinary education that combines humanities, social sciences, and business to examine the complex factors influencing human development. Students explore the political, economic, cultural, and ethical dimensions of global development while learning how governments, nonprofit organizations, international institutions, and private enterprises collaborate to improve the quality of life for communities worldwide.
Grounded in the University’s Catholic intellectual tradition and commitment to the common good, the curriculum emphasizes ethical leadership, social responsibility, and human dignity. Students are encouraged to think critically about the international development challenges and to become compassionate leaders capable of making meaningful contributions to society.
student success
An Interdisciplinary Approach to Global Development
The International Development program draws upon multiple academic disciplines to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of sustainable development and global change. This interdisciplinary approach helps students understand the cultural, political, and social contexts that shape development policies and international cooperation while strengthening their communication and cross-cultural competencies.
To complement this foundation, students receive practical training in business and economic principles that are essential for managing international development projects and evaluating public and private initiatives. Coursework includes:
- Accounting
- Economics
- Finance
This combination of liberal arts and business education enables graduates to understand not only why development challenges exist, but also how effective organizations design, finance, and implement sustainable solutions.
Career Opportunities
Build a Career with Global Impact
Graduates of the International Development program are prepared for careers that require global awareness, interdisciplinary problem-solving, and ethical leadership. The program develops strong analytical, communication, project management, and cross-cultural skills that are highly valued across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Career opportunities include:
- International development organizations
- Government agencies and public service
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief
- International business and corporate social responsibility
- Economic and community development
- International education and advocacy
- Global consulting and project management
The program also provides excellent preparation for graduate study in international development, public policy, international relations, public administration, business, law, and related disciplines.
Learn from the experts
International Development
Dr. Yao-Yuan Yeh
Dr. Yao-Yuan Yeh currently serves as a tenured professor and the Fayez Sarofim – Cullen Trust for Higher Education Endowed Chair in International Studies at University of St. Thomas, Houston. He is also the Chair of the Department of Political Science, International Studies, and Modern Languages, Director of the Master’s Program in Diplomacy and Strategic Affairs, Director of the Taiwan and East Asia Studies Program, and Director of the Mandarin Center jointly operated by the University of St. Thomas and Wenzao Ursuline University of Languages.
Why UST?
Learn with Our Global Campus Community
Interdisciplinary Education
International Development combines perspectives from political science, communication, business, economics, language, and Catholic studies to provide students with a well-rounded understanding of global development challenges and sustainable solutions.
Experiential Learning
Students are encouraged to complement classroom learning through international development internships, study abroad, faculty-guided research, service-learning, and community engagement. These experiences allow students to apply their knowledge while developing practical leadership skills in diverse cultural and professional settings.
Houston's Global Connections
Located in one of the nation’s most diverse and internationally connected cities, UST provides students with opportunities to engage with multinational corporations, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and community partners working on issues with both local and global significance. Students pursuing an International Development degree in Houston benefit from access to a dynamic center of international business, culture, healthcare and community development.
Personalized Learning
Small class sizes and close faculty mentorship create an engaging academic environment where students receive individualized guidance while developing the confidence and skills necessary for professional success.
Educating Ethical Leaders for Global Development
The University of St. Thomas believes that sustainable development must be guided by ethical leadership, respect for human dignity, and a commitment to the common good. Rooted in Catholic social teaching, the Bachelor of Arts in International Development encourages students to understand not only the technical aspects of development but also its human dimensions.
Graduates leave the program prepared to collaborate across cultures, evaluate complex global challenges, and develop innovative, sustainable solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities around the world.