In this interdisciplinary field of inquiry, students will explore the causes and consequences of processes that promote some individuals, communities, and nations, and exclude others. Students will examine the foundational values and world-views of competing visions of development, including those of faith-based approaches.  Students will be prepared for citizenship in an increasingly interdependent global community, and they will be encouraged to envision faithful approaches to transformational development that brings justice and peace.

Why major in IDS at CMU?
The IDS program at CMU focuses on development processes at the global, national and community levels but gives particular emphasis to development at the community level and to the work of non-governmental organizations. Students pursuing an IDS major engage in experience-based learning through the CMU Practicum program. A practicum provides students the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-life settings and gain valuable skills for development work.