Practical Learning
Practical learning experiences are the cornerstone of the Emory MDP curriculum. Since the program's inception in 2010, we have facilitated more than 500 summer practicums with 100 partner organizations across 75 countries.
Our “embedded practitioner” model envisions students to serve within development and humanitarian organizations as professionals-in-training. As such, they work with their project teams and produce high-quality work, while building their own skillsets and networks.
MDP students complete two summer practicums (8-10 weeks each), contributing to projects across sectors such as global health, environment, education, water and sanitation, housing security, economic empowerment, and disaster recovery.
Most Emory MDP sudents also engage in optional academic year internships; with MDP approval, students who fulfill 400 internship hours during the second academic year may exempt out of their summer practicum and graduate in May rather than in August.
Alumni Employment
MDP field practicum experiences with partner organizations can lead to meaningful employment after students graduate.
Practicum Partners
Partner organizations provide students with transformative experiences in development practice across sectors and settings.