IDCE alums are working to improve the livelihoods of women and children in programs in Thailand, Ethiopia, Sudan, Senegal, Vietnam, Tanzania, India, Nepal, Sierra Leone, Philippines, and Ghana. Many IDCE alums are involved in displaced persons and refugee relief in such places as Liberia, Zaire, Macedonia, Bosnia, Serbia, and Sierra Leone. Catholic Relief Services has placed IDCE graduates in its programs in Haiti, Macedonia, Kenya, and Peru. The ID degree requires ten courses. In addition, there are opportunities for internships with development agencies in the US and abroad.
Students take the initiative for securing their own internships and fellowships or grants.
Research Methods Covers major topics in empirical social research design and methodology, including problem definition, research strategies, measurement, sampling, data collection techniques and procedures and proposal writing. Topics include project design, implementation, management, budget monitoring, scheduling and evaluations. Focuses on problem identification, developing project proposals, designing environmental and social impact assessments and creating evaluation frameworks. Emphasizes case studies. Stresses fundamental logic and scope of problem solving using raster and vector systems.