International Aid and Development Project Officer

Education Requirements

Minimum Needed

Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in Law, Political Science, or other Social Science subject.

or

Bachelor's Degree in a Humanities or Interdisciplinary Studies subject combined with appropriate Research Methods courses.

Normally Needed

Master's Degree in one of the above subjects.

Expert Advice

Social Science subjects are: Adult Education, Anthropology, Child and Youth Care, Communication and Media Studies, Criminology, Economics, Geography, Gerontology, Linguistics, Peace & Conflict Studies, Political Science, Psychology, and Sociology.

Career Pathway Advice

Before Graduation

• Gain Work Experiences. (e.g., Co-op Education, Internships, Work Integrated Learning).
• Be Curious. Ask questions about the work environment and day-to-day tasks of a job. This includes reaching out to professionals in the field, faculty, counsellors/advisors, neighbours and friends.
• Develop Power Skills. (e.g., oral and written communication, teamwork & leadership, problem solving, critical thinking, innovation & creativity, and engaging diversity).
• Know Your Transferable Skills. Understand how the skills you are learning in your program meet or transfer to the requirements of your intended job.
• Develop Digital Literacy. Be able to find, communicate, create, and edit files online (e.g., Word, Excel, Outlook, Adobe).
• Be Grade Point Average (GPA) Aware. Know the minimum grade point average needed for admission to your desired graduate or professional program (if applicable).
• Pursue Mentorship and Network Opportunities. (e.g., information interviews, developing relationships with someone working in the field, joining professional organizations, job shadowing, or volunteering).
• Prepare Your Job Search Documents. (e.g., LinkedIn profile, CV/Resume, cover letter, and portfolio).
• Practice your Interview Skills. Research common interview questions employers use, develop short stories you can use to demonstrate your skills and experience, and seek help from a career centre, family, or friends to do mock interviews.

After Graduation

• Seek mentorship from co-workers and supervisors.
• Participate in ongoing learning and professional development.
• Build network relationships with other industry professionals.
• Keep your job search documents updated.
• Research the training opportunities offered by your employer.
• Build your brand by using social media, LinkedIn, and through professional memberships or associations.

 Spotlight Requirement

• A second language is an asset for some positions.

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