About Development Practice
The MPA degree in Development Practice (MPA-DP) trains aspiring practitioners to understand, develop and implement integrated approaches to sustainable development. Drawing on the extraordinary educational and research facilities of Columbia University, the MPA-DP emphasizes practical knowledge and skills.
The MPA-DP curriculum framework is based on a series of competencies, which are achieved through learning of core knowledge, and practice of key skills. In addition to completing core coursework, students develop competencies through participation in DP-lab (a series of skills clinics), special events, seminars and the 3-month Summer Field Placement Program.
Core skills and competencies of a Development Practitioner
The core curriculum provides students with a solid background in theories and methods of development, food systems, public health, economics, ecology, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability.
All coursework includes skills training components which focuses on equipping students with the management, communication, quantitative and analytical skills needed to work fluidly across disciplines and regions.
Graduates of the MPA-DP degree will posses the the knowledge and skills needed to demonstrate competency in these 7 core areas:
- Problem Appraisal
- Program Design
- Implementation and Management
- Monitoring and Evaluation
- Communications
- Capacity Building
- Cultural and Interpersonal Interaction
Please click here for a full list of skills MPA-DP students can learn and strengthen while at Columbia University.
|
