International Education Studies (BA)

Expand your global awareness and intercultural skills through the study of educational philosophies and teaching approaches in Wilfrid Laurier University’s Bachelor of Arts (BA) in International Education Studies.  
 
This unique program blends academic learning and hands-on experience with courses from the Faculty of Arts and the Faculty of Education. Develop the skills, knowledge and experience needed to excel in a globally interconnected world. 

This program can lead to a Bachelor of Education and a teaching career in Canada or worldwide. Graduates are also prepared for diverse careers in international development, migration and refugee support, human rights and beyond. 

Program Details

Discover what makes this Laurier program unique and how you’ll gain real-world experience.

Why Should I Choose International Education Studies?

Your future professors in International Education work hard to make sure your academic experience is current, complete, and designed to open doors in your career. Here are a few things you can count on:

  • Innovative Interdisciplinary Learning
    Laurier’s unique BA in International Education Studies combines the Faculty of Education and the Department of Global Studies, offering a rich blend of instructional planning, teaching for diversity and global challenges.
  • Global Perspectives and Practical Skills 
    Develop a deep understanding of global issues like climate change and inequality while gaining practical skills in teaching and intercultural engagement. Tailor your education to careers in human rights, international development and peacebuilding.
  • Local Educational Placements 
    In your second year, engage in a local placement within schools or community organizations focusing on educational practices that support diverse languages and cultures, and gain valuable experience in real-world settings.

How Will I Gain Real-World Experience?

Here are just a few of our students’ favourite ways to apply their learning in the real world throughout their degree (check out the Experience Guide for even more):

  • Explore Co-Curricular Experiences
    Join Laurier Students for Learning (LSFL) and help inspire a love of literacy and learning in school age children, applying your learning beyond the classroom walls.
  • TEFL Certification 
    Complete a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate from Conestoga College for the training and first credential required to teach English as a second/foreign language in Canada or abroad. 
  • Global Placement Opportunities 
    Between your third and fourth year, undertake an intensive international placement with partner schools and organizations. Choose between opportunities abroad or in the Waterloo Region to advance your professional development.

Courses and Program Enhancements

Explore a sample weekly schedule to see what your day-to-day might look like in this program.

What Courses Will I Take? 

Get a glimpse of what you will study throughout your degree. See what your first-year classes will look like through sample courses and start exploring what your upper academic years can offer.

How Can I Enhance My Degree?

Explore a variety of courses, specializations and pathway options that let you shape your degree around your unique interests and goals. Find out how you can customize your experience and prepare for what’s next.

Admissions

  • Format: full time or part time
  • Duration: four years
  • Start: September (fall term)

Career Options

It’s not only about the journey; it’s about the destination. Let us help you get to where you’re going.

What Jobs Can I Get After Graduation?

Our International Education Studies (BA) graduates go on to a wide range of rewarding careers. Here are just a few examples:

  • community engagement specialist
  • ESL teacher
  • global engagement program manager
  • human rights lawyer
  • NGO program coordinator/manager
  • policy analyst
  • teacher in an international school

Note: Additional training and education may be required.

Explore more careers.

Will I Be Supported After Graduation?

As a Laurier alum, you'll  have access to Career and Employment Support offered at Laurier for your entire career.

What are the Tuition Fees and Costs for Arts at Laurier?

Below is a breakdown of tuition fees and expenses for Laurier Arts students for one year (or two terms) studying full time. Fees are based on 2026/27 rates and are subject to increase. All fees are shown in Canadian dollars.

Tuition Fees for Arts Students
Fee Type Domestic Students International Students
Tuition $6,180 $36,624
Student Fees $2,133
$4,018 with co-op
$3,082
$4,967 with co-op
Textbook Fees $1,500 $1,500

See a full breakdown of your first-year expenses.

Scholarships and Bursaries

When you apply to Laurier you’ll be automatically assessed for entrance scholarships (based on your final admission average) and for in-course scholarships in your upper years (based on your Laurier GPA from the previous academic year). We also offer more than 700 competitive scholarships and awards, which require separate applications and may be awarded throughout the academic year.

Additional Financial Support

  • Get information and advice on eligibility for government assistance (like OSAP) from our Financial Aid office.
  • Apply for bursaries to receive additional support based on financial need and academic performance.
  • Learn money management skills through courses, workshops and financial coaching.
  • Visit the Career Centre for support finding part-time job opportunities.

 

Laurier is among the top 7 percent in the Center for World University Rankings 2026

 

Laurier students engaged in hands-on learning in 2025/26

 

Laurier graduates employed or in post-graduate studies in 2025

Waterloo Campus

The Waterloo campus is tucked into about one city block, so you’re steps away from your classes, food and your new favourite study spot. With more than 60 programs in arts, science, business and music, you can customize your degree, gain hands-on learning opportunities and join in the community beyond the classroom.

There are many ways to tour our Waterloo campus, whether that's on a guided tour with one of our Laurier student ambassadors, on your own using virtual reality, or even on-demand through one of our pre-recorded tours. See our campus spaces and start to picture yourself at Laurier.

students in a classroom

How Will I Learn in This Program?

This is primarily an in-person program, meaning you'll attend classes on campus and learn face-to-face with professors and classmates. When you register for courses, you'll be able to select from available sections and create your timetable. 
 
In-person delivery gives you direct access to faculty, hands-on learning opportunities and a traditional university student experience.


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Get in Touch

Have questions? Email chooselaurier@wlu.ca, call 548-889-8888 or see all contact information.


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