MA in Community Development and Planning, Clark University

Worcester - USA, Massachusetts

24 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

This master’s program in Community Development and Planning emphasizes the importance of understanding power structures and fostering community engagement. It focuses on creating spaces that support residents' well-being, economic opportunities, and access to essential services like healthcare and education. The program highlights that community development is rooted in relationships and trust, encouraging students to collaborate with community members to develop unique, sustainable strategies for their local context. It also provides practical skills in finance, project management, geo-spatial analysis, and nonprofit leadership to equip students to be effective partners in community transformation.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program is ideal for those passionate about fostering social justice and sustainable communities. Its faculty are active scholars and practitioners working on labor justice, grassroots organizations, youth empowerment, and social policy change. The program prepares students for impactful careers in local and global settings, working with organizations dedicated to equity, social justice, urban planning, affordable housing, and public health. The diverse alumni network exemplifies success in various roles, from city planning to nonprofit leadership, highlighting the program’s real-world relevance and professional impact.

Specialisation

Students can choose from three program tracks: a 10-unit track completed in three semesters, a 12-unit research track conducted over four semesters with primary research in the summer, or a 12-unit practice track that involves engaging in experiential learning opportunities over four semesters. The curriculum incorporates core courses, experiential learning through studio courses, summer collaboratives, internships, and opportunities for directed study and thesis work.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

19.54L

Living cost

Degree requirements

The degree involves completing required core courses in sustainability studies, social change, project management, and inquiry methods. Students choose a program track and engage in experiential learning, internships, and research or practice-oriented activities. The curriculum balances foundational knowledge with practical experience, culminating in a thesis or directed study, depending on the chosen track.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

PTE

TOEFL

DUOLINGO

120

Career prospects

Graduates work across a wide range of fields including youth and education, food security, urban planning, affordable housing, economic development, and public health. They have held roles such as Director of Organizational Effectiveness, Associate Director at the Federal Reserve Bank, Senior Manager at Neighborworks America, and City Planner. The program’s focus on community engagement and social justice equips students with skills needed for leadership positions in nonprofits, government agencies, and community development organizations.

FAQs

What are the program tracks available?

There are three tracks: a 10-unit track completed in three semesters, a 12-unit research track that involves primary research in the summer, and a 12-unit practice track with experiential learning opportunities.

What practical experiences does the program include?

Students participate in studio courses, summer global learning collaboratives, internships, and, depending on the track, directed studies and thesis writing to gain hands-on experience.