International Development Studies

Apply now for the 2026-27 school year

Deadline: Monday of Week 2 of Fall Quarter Mandatory Meeting: Week 2 or 3 of Fall Quarter

Why Do Departmental Honors?

You have a strong interest in research and writing, have done extensive reading on a topic.
You will work independently under the guidance of a UCLA faculty member
Strengthen research, writing, critical thinking, and reading comprehension skills for graduate school and career

Featured Honors Students

Zoe Reinecke, 2021

Honors Thesis title: “Non-Governmental Organizational Responses to the Educational Needs of Refugees in Kenya During the COVID-19 Pandemic”

Through her thesis, Zoe aimed to inform of ways in which policy can be leveraged to improve the educational experiences of refugees. Her best piece of advice is to go for it! She recommends finding a mentor you respect and who is invested in your research and your future. Read more here.

Hayley Farrell, 2022

Honors Thesis title: “Globalization and Developing Economies: Implications for Ghana's Poultry Farmers”

Hayley aimed to examine how the poultry industry in Ghana has been impacted by imported chicken and other global factors. Her best piece of advice is to take advantage of the many opportunities available at UCLA beyond just completing coursework! Read more about her time in Ghana here.

Eligibility

Be officially declared as an IDS major
Completion of any 2 core IDS courses: (IDS 110, M120, 130, 140). Students may petition to apply with only 1 core course complete.
Minimum 3.5 GPA for all upper division IDS courses
Must have secured a faculty advisor
Submit the IDS Honors Application and have your advisor complete the faculty form.

*Petitions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis

Preparation

Attend an online or/and in-person library research workshops/tutorials on narrowing down your topic, finding sources, organizing information, etc.
Attend the mandatory Spring Undergraduate Research Workshop and complete the worksheet to start narrowing down your topic and turning your topic into research questions!
IDS Library Resource Guide: Find journals and sources for your thesis. Created by your librarian!

Click below to watch the recording of our 2024 Senior Thesis and Honors Workshop!

Application Form And Guidelines

Design and conduct independent research under the guidance of a faculty advisor culminating in an honors thesis. Application is due by Monday Week 2 of Fall quarter.

Application

Faculty Form

Honors Guidelines & Timelines