M.S. in Healthcare Technology
The STEM-designated M.S. in Healthcare Technology program at Clark University offers a ...
M.A. in Community Development and Planning
Worcester, Massachusetts
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in Community Development and Planning at Clark University offers a comprehensive and socially engaged curriculum designed to equip students with the critical perspectives, practical skills, and ethical frameworks necessary to foster equitable and sustainable community development. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating theories and methods from urban planning, sociology, economics, and environmental studies to address complex social, economic, and environmental challenges facing communities. Students learn to analyze community needs, engage diverse stakeholders, develop effective strategies, and promote positive social change through participatory and inclusive planning processes.
Curriculum: The curriculum is thoughtfully structured to provide a strong foundation in the principles and practices of community development and planning. Core coursework typically includes urban theory, planning law and policy, community organizing and engagement, research methods for planning, economic development, and environmental planning. Students can often specialize their knowledge through elective courses focusing on areas such as housing policy, transportation planning, social justice and equity in planning, sustainable development, and geographic information systems (GIS). The program frequently incorporates community-based projects, case studies, and participatory planning exercises to provide hands-on experience and foster practical skills.
Research Focus: The research focus within the M.A. in Community Development and Planning program at Clark University often centers on addressing pressing social, economic, and environmental issues within urban and rural communities. Faculty and students may engage in research projects related to areas such as affordable housing, sustainable urban development, environmental justice, community resilience, participatory planning processes, the impacts of gentrification, and strategies for promoting equitable development. The program encourages students to develop strong research skills, enabling them to critically analyze community challenges, evaluate the effectiveness of development initiatives, and contribute to evidence-based solutions.
Industry Engagement: Recognizing the importance of connecting academic learning with real-world practice, the M.A. in Community Development and Planning program at Clark University actively fosters engagement with community organizations, government agencies, and planning firms. This engagement can include guest lectures from practitioners, networking events, opportunities for internships or fieldwork placements with local and regional organizations, and collaborative projects that address community-identified needs. These interactions provide students with valuable insights into the practical realities of community development and planning, allow them to build professional networks, and enhance their career readiness.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in Community Development and Planning program at Clark University inherently incorporates a global perspective, recognizing the interconnectedness of local and global development challenges. Coursework often examines international case studies in community development and urban planning, explores global sustainability issues, and may include opportunities for study abroad or engagement with international development organizations. The diverse student body and faculty at Clark further contribute to a global learning environment, preparing graduates to understand and address community development issues within a broader international context and to apply globally informed perspectives to local challenges.
Location
Worcester, Massachusetts
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 24000
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 85 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 61 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 120.
Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts, United States, offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students in pursuing their academic goals. Recognizing the financial challenges that many international students face, Clark is providing merit-based and need-based financial aid to attract talented and motivated students from around the globe.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Clark University awards several merit scholarships to international students based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and other achievements. These scholarships vary in amount and can significantly reduce tuition costs. The university’s recognizing outstanding international applicants ensures that many students receive financial assistance during the admissions process.
Need-Based Financial Aid: Although international students are generally expected to demonstrate the ability to finance their education, Clark does offer limited need-based aid to international applicants who demonstrate exceptional financial need. Students are encouraged to apply early and provide all required financial documentation to be considered.
Clark University International Scholarship: One of the prominent awards for international students is the Clark University International Scholarship, which is granted to highly qualified students to help offset the cost of tuition. This scholarship is competitive and requires strong academic records along with a contributing to the campus community.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: Graduate international students at Clark can apply for assistantships and fellowships, which provide tuition remission and a stipend in exchange for teaching, research, or administrative work. These opportunities not only help financially but also offer valuable professional experience in the students’ field of study.
External Scholarships and Funding: Clark encourages international students to seek external scholarships and funding sources from governments, private organizations, and international foundations.
Graduates of the M.A. in Community Development and Planning program at Clark University possess a versatile and highly relevant skillset, opening doors to a diverse range of impactful career opportunities within public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector.
Urban Planner: Developing comprehensive plans and strategies for the physical and social development of urban areas, addressing issues like land use, transportation, housing, and infrastructure.
Community Development Director: Leading initiatives and programs aimed at improving the social, economic, and physical well-being of specific communities, often working for local government or nonprofit organizations.
Housing Specialist: Focusing on addressing housing needs, developing affordable housing policies, and managing housing programs for government agencies or nonprofit developers.
Environmental Planner: Developing and implementing plans and policies to protect and improve the environment within communities, addressing issues like conservation, sustainability, and climate change.
Transportation Planner: Developing strategies and plans for efficient and sustainable transportation systems, including public transit, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, and traffic management.
Economic Development Specialist: Working to attract and retain businesses, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth within communities, often for local government or development corporations.
Community Organizer: Working directly with community residents and stakeholders to identify needs, build collective power, and advocate for policy changes and community improvements.
Nonprofit Program Manager: Developing and managing programs focused on community development goals within nonprofit organizations, such as workforce development, youth services, or neighborhood revitalization.
GIS Analyst/Planner: Utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology to analyze spatial data and create maps and visualizations to inform planning decisions and community development initiatives.
Sustainability Coordinator: Developing and implementing sustainability plans and initiatives for local governments, educational institutions, or nonprofit organizations, focusing on environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
