A major in International Development Studies prepares students to understand the challenges that developing nations face in achieving improved living conditions for their inhabitants. In our courses, we emphasize how development is shaped by the intersections of politics, economy, social and political power, and culture at global, national, and regional levels. Our majors acquire a critical understanding of environmental vulnerabilities and socio-economic inequalities in the developing world, grounded in an appreciation of global history. The International Development Studies majors are well-prepared for further graduate education and to work in NGOs and state agencies alike.

The International Development Studies at Portland State University is a Certificate program designed for students who want to build the knowledge and skills required for careers in this field. Delivered on campus at the university's main campus in Aberdeen, United States of America, the program is taught in English and takes 1 year to complete. Students study in a Full Time environment while preparing for future professional opportunities. The next intake starts on September 26, 2027.
About Certificate in International Development Studies
Disciplines
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Certificate in International Development Studies at Portland State University
Entry Requirements
General Secondary Education Certificate/Exam (Tawjihi), Overall average greater than 80%
English Requirements
- PTEMin 53
- IELTSMin 6
- TOEFLMin 71
Career Opportunities after Completing Certificate in International Development Studies
A degree in International Development Studies prepares students for a wide range of careers in the nonprofit, private, and government sectors. Graduates of our program have found opportunities all over the world in:
- Graduate programs in International Affairs, Business, International Development, Political Science, Urban Studies, Public Health, etc.
- Private-sector employers, including international businesses
- Aid organizations such as the International Red Cross
- Nonprofits focused on issues ranging from health to education, food systems, gender rights, sustainability, and more
- Business incubators and trade organizations
- Government agencies and grassroots organizations, with a focus on international affairs
- Journalism and media organizations
Whether you want to pursue a career overseas, work in the United States, or prepare for a graduate degree, take the first step with Portland State University's International Development Studies major.
Tuition and Fee Information for Certificate in International Development Studies at Portland State University
How to Apply for Certificate in International Development Studies at Portland State University
Submit Your Application and $60 Application Fee
Go to Portland State University's online application system and select Create Account. If you have already started an application, or created one for a past term, select Log In.
Submit Academic Records
You are required to submit complete academic records. We accept high school transcripts, grades and other relevant academic records along with your graduation certificate, diploma or exam results or certificates. If you have taken any college or university classes, submit transcripts from all colleges or universities attended. You can submit unofficial transcripts from non-U.S. institutions for review of your application and to receive an admission decision. Official transcripts are required for enrollment, see our official records policy for details.
Electronic Submission: Transcripts may be submitted via Parchment or sent directly from a school official to [email protected].
In Person Submission: You can bring these directly to our office upon arrival to Portland State.
Mail Submission: Submit official transcripts in their original sealed envelopes from all schools attended and mail them to PSU at the address below.
Portland State University
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
PO Box 751
Portland OR 97207-0751
Submit Evidence of English Language Proficiency
Request official test results to be sent directly to Portland State University by ETS (TOEFL), PTE, or IELTS. Students who meet the academic requirements for admission to PSU, but have not yet met English proficiency requirements, will be admitted to PSU and placed into one of our ESL programs. Review PSU’s English Language Proficiency Requirements for more details.
- TOEFL Code: 4610, department code 00
- SAT Code: 4610
Check Your Application Status
If you have submitted an application to Portland State University, you can log in to PSU's application portal to review the status of your application. You will be notified via email for each document you submit and your admission decision.
If you are not receiving email communications from Portland State University, be sure to check your @pdx.edu email account. Once you set up your student account all communications will be sent to that email address. If you are not receiving information from us in any email inboxes, please contact us at [email protected].
United States of America, Aberdeen