"The Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies was instituted in 1995 as the university’s response to the need to help the Philippines achieve total human development. The program is oriented towards a systematic study of development theories, models and strategies based on the experiences of developed and developing countries. It is envisioned that by providing the students with adequate knowledge, skills and appropriate values, the students’ ability to formulate and implement people-centered development programs in the country will be enhanced.

The program consists of five areas: development theories, development models, development administration techniques, development research, and social mobilization strategies. Development studies will draw on perspectives from the fields of political science, economics, public administration, sociology, anthropology, history, management and community development.

The curriculum includes general education courses, major courses and elective units. With the program’s integral approach to development studies, the students are given the opportunity to harness their potentials in preparation for a development work career in the government, non-government organizations, research institutions, and academe.
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