Emory MDP is structured around a core curriculum coupled with customized training in specific topics and skills. This allows students to pursue their own interests and career objectives while also acquiring a broad base of critical expertise in development practice.
To successfully earn their MDP degree, each student must complete 50 credit hours and take courses in the 7 required competency areas: Social Sciences and Integrative Analysis, Health Sciences, Management Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Research and Applied Methods, Social Justice and Diversity, and Professionalization. Some areas have specific courses assigned to fulfill the requirement. Other areas give students the freedom to choose courses to fulfill the requirement. In addition, students must also complete two summer field practicums.
The course progression below represents a typical coursework trajectory. However, the timing of certain courses will vary: depending on student interests and course availability, many courses may be taken during a different semester than that listed below. In addition to coursework, most MDP students undertake academic year internships during their semesters in the program.