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 6 required competency areas: Social Sciences and Integrative Analysis, Health Sciences, Management Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Research and Applied Methods, and Social Justice and Diversity. Some competency areas have specific courses assigned to fulfill the requirement, while others give students the freedom to choose courses within the field in question. In addition to the coursework, students must also complete two summer field practicums. Most MDP students also undertake optional academic year internships during their semesters in the program.
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.
