International Development Work

Our minor programme International Development Work (IDW) will give you a solid foundation in international development work theory, and provide you with the opportunity for (extended) field practice. You'll attend lectures from Dutch and international experts.

Welcome to HU

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You will have courses on Theories and History of Development, Community Development, Cultural Diversity, Social Business, and Climate and Ecological Justice. There are excursions and you will get to do field work. You'll work alone and in small groups of fellow highly-motivated students.

Useful to know

Start September
Number of ECTS 30 Dutch Education System
Programme level Minor
Programme code ASW-MINSOC-17
Language of instruction English
Year of study Year 3 or 4
Practical Matters Housing and Immigration
Location Utrecht Science Park

Course content

What do you need to enter this programme? And what can you expect when you apply? In this section you'll find all you need to know!

Social workers and related professionals increasingly have to address social problems that are being precipitated by international forces and events. Our programme International Development Work will give you the opportunity to expand your repertoires and competencies by learning about theories, approaches, methods and actors in international development work, as well as give you the chance to practice in the field. You will work on an individual basis and in subgroups on practice-related assignments. 

An excursion to Sarajevo and Srebrenica in Bosnia is included in the programme. You'll also work on a field project for an NGO of your choosing.

We welcome both full-time and part-time students. If you are a part-time student, please contact the coordinator to enquire about the possibilities to join this programme.

Would you like to know more about this programme or do you have a specific question? Please contact the programme coordinator, Gerian Alofs.

The programme takes place during one semester and contains the following courses:

Course Unit Title ECTS
Theories of Change 15
Practices of Change 15

In our Course Guides you can find all relevant information about the programme in one practical document. Download it here for your convenience.

This minor programme is open to all students, but we explicitly recommend it to Social Work, Health Care, Pedagogy, Education & Teaching, Law, Security Studies, Human Resource Management and Economics students.

We gladly welcome incoming international exchange students!

English CEFR level B2. Good oral and written English language skills.

An excursion to Sarajevo and Srebrenica in Bosnia is included in the programme. The additional costs for transport to and accommodation in Bosnia are approximately € 500.

Practical information

When you move to a different country to study, there are lots of things to arrange. For instance, where will you live, how much are the costs? Visit our practical information page to help you prepare your stay. It is also important to start arranging a living space as soon as possible. Our housing pages will help you on your way. A student living in the Netherlands needs about € 800 - 1000 a month to cover living expenses, such as housing, food and transportation. This includes insurances – health insurance is mandatory.

Find out how to apply

Ready for an international adventure?

Why choose hu?

  • Get ahead of the pack in international development work

    In the competitive field of international development work, having this minor on your diploma will certainly give you the edge.

  • Inspiring international setting

    HU supports your ambitions. During your time in Utrecht, you will meet students from all over the world and make connections to last a lifetime.

  • Benefits of the Utrecht Science Park Campus

    On Utrecht Science Park (USP) you'll find the universities' buildings, student housing, cafés, a sports centre, and much more. With excellent transport links to Utrecht city centre and beyond.

  • Vibrant university city Utrecht

    Beautiful Utrecht has lots of young people and excellent facilities for student life. It has a mediaeval city centre which is small enough to explore by foot or bicycle.

A group of students talking on campus in front of one of HU's buildings

Interested in our International Development Work programme?

Apply now

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