Global Development Issues
About Global Development Issues
The world is characterized by various development issues, such as spatial inequality, the contrast between rich and poor, an environment that is under pressure, access to sufficient and safe food, dealing with violent conflicts and bad health. As a global citizen, consumer and future professional, you are likely to be closely involved in these development issues. Wouldn’t it be interesting to learn more about these issues and be able to partake in this debate with well-argued opinions? Moreover, wouldn’t it be motivating to come up with small-scale possible solutions and put these solutions into practice during an internship abroad? Consider doing this minor if your answer to these questions is ‘yes’!
Why this programme?
- Combine theory and a practical internship abroad to tackle global issues hands-on.
- Learn about inequality and environmental challenges to drive informed solutions.
- Link your major to global development for impactful future contributions.
Objective of the programme
The objective of this exchange programme is to provide you with useful knowledge, insights and skills that allow you to look to several development issues from a realistic view. It will help you to build a well-argued opinion on these matters and let you think about possible long-lasting solutions. The tools to do so will be provided during the three different courses and one practical internship. In addition, you will find out how your own professional expertise (your major) is linked one way or the other to global development issues and how this minor can contribute in future professional situations.
Admission requirements
The Global Development Issues Minor will form a component of a Bachelor’s degree. Students who wish to follow this programme will need to have attained adequate levels of reading and writing in English, i.e. IELTS 6.0 and will need to have completed their first year of a Bachelor degree programme. Proof language level, a written motivation and a Skype interview are part of the entry requirements. This minor is open to all. Maximum group size is 25.
How to apply as an exchange student
Applications should always be submitted via the International Exchange (or Erasmus) Officer at the home university. If several versions of the programme are offered, please indicate for which version you would like to apply to (Programme I, Programme II, Programme III, etc.) This officer will send your application request (nomination) to Fontys. Once Fontys has accepted the application, your Fontys study department will send you a link to a web application called Mobility Online.
Deadline for application
Fall semester: 15 May
Spring semester: 15 November
Note: Not all exchange programmes are available every semester. To find out when this programme is offered, please check its specific details.
How will your course programme be recognised by your home university?
Fontys will provide you with a so-called ‘Transcript of Records’, which will clarify the results that you have achieved. Depending on your results, you will receive a maximum of 30 ECTS credits. ECTS credits are recognised throughout Europe. The agreement between your home university and Fontys University of Applied Sciences will usually include a condition whereby the credits that you obtain will be recognised and transferred into the records kept by your home university.
Practical information
- Start moment(s)
- September, February
- Location
- Tilburg
- ECTs
- 30
- Language
- English
- Duration
- 20 weeks
- Contact hours
- 15-20 hours per week
In addition to the standard costs of a stay abroad, the internship in a developing country brings additional costs of around €2000 (incl. flight). It also requires necessary preparation concerning, for example, a visa. In cooperation with your teacher you’ll search for a suitable place for your internship.
For more detailed information about practical matters, such as financial matters, residence permit, health insurance and accommodation, please click on the button below.