UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY · UNITED STATES
Master of Development Practice (MDP)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
21 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 21 MonthsProgram Duration
- STEM-DesignatedProgram Type
- 75%International Students
- 28.6Average Age
- Global NetworkUN Sustainable Development Solutions Network
- 3 YearsOPT Eligibility for International Students
The Master of Development Practice (MDP) at UC Berkeley is a 21-month, STEM-designated program designed for students passionate about sustainable development. This program combines rigorous academic study with practical fieldwork and collaborative learning to equip future leaders with the skills needed to address critical global challenges. Located in the innovative Bay Area and connected to a global network of over 30 MDP programs via the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network, the Berkeley MDP provides an exceptional environment for students to develop and implement impactful solutions. This degree is more than just an academic qualification; it's a launchpad for individuals committed to building a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable world. Graduates are prepared to apply interdisciplinary thinking to complex development issues, working across traditional boundaries to create lasting change.
Curriculum
The MDP curriculum is interdisciplinary, covering a broad range of subjects essential for sustainable development. It includes a core curriculum, a required summer internship after the first year, and a capstone project in the second year. Students also have the flexibility to choose electives from the Goldman School of Public Policy (GSPP) and across the wider Berkeley campus.
- Core Curriculum & Electives
- Climate, Energy, Agriculture, and Environment
- Public Policy
- Economic Development
- Public Health
- Project Management
- Business and Innovation
- Human Rights, Education, Migration, Humanitarian Relief, and Governance
- Summer after Year 1
- Summer Internship
- Year 2
- Capstone Project
Careers
Graduates of the Berkeley MDP program are well-prepared for diverse roles in the evolving development landscape. While many find positions in leading global development organizations and government, others pursue careers in impact investing, corporate social responsibility, product innovation, and technology. Many graduates also choose to establish their own organizations, including NGOs and startups. The program's STEM designation allows international students to apply for an additional 24 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) after their initial OPT, totaling three years of work eligibility in the US.
- Global Development Organizations
- National and Local Government
- Impact Investing
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
- Product Innovation
- Tech Sector
- NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations)
- Startups
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the Master of Development Practice (MDP) program?
- The Master of Development Practice (MDP) at UC Berkeley is a 21-month, STEM-designated program.
- What are the career prospects for MDP graduates?
- Graduates are prepared for roles in global development organizations, government, impact investing, corporate social responsibility, and startups. The program's STEM designation also allows for up to three years of work eligibility in the US through OPT.
- How do I apply for the MDP program?
- You should visit the Graduate Admissions website to explore program details and review application requirements. Gather necessary documents like transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose, then submit your application through the online system.
- What are the tuition and fees for the MDP program?
- Specific tuition fees for the MDP program are not detailed on the program page. Applicants should consult the official Berkeley Registrar's website for the most current and detailed financial information, including tuition and living costs.
- What are the main components of the MDP curriculum?
- The curriculum includes a core set of interdisciplinary subjects, a required summer internship after the first year, and a capstone project in the second year. Students can also take electives from the Goldman School of Public Policy and across the campus.
- Are there scholarship opportunities for international students in the MDP program?
- The program page lists external opportunities like the World Bank Scholarship Program, for which students must apply directly. Other fellowships may be available, and applicants are encouraged to explore financial aid and scholarship information on the university's official websites.
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Fees
Tuition (international)Specific international tuition fees are not provided on the program page, but general university tuition information is available through the Registrar's Office. Please consult the university's official fees schedule for detailed costs.
Tuition (home)Specific domestic tuition fees are not provided on the program page, but general university tuition information is available through the Registrar's Office. Please consult the university's official fees schedule for detailed costs.
LivingNo specific living cost estimate is provided on the program page. Applicants should refer to the university's financial aid and tuition pages for general estimates for graduate students.
Tuition and fees for graduate programs at UC Berkeley are itemized on the Registrar's website. Financial aid and scholarship information are also available. Please visit the official Berkeley websites for the most current and detailed financial information.
How to apply
1. Explore Graduate ProgramsVisit the Graduate Admissions website to explore program details, research opportunities, and professional development options.
2. Review Application RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the specific requirements for the Master of Development Practice (MDP) program on its dedicated page or the graduate admissions portal.
3. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, which typically include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and English proficiency test scores (if applicable).
4. Submit Your ApplicationComplete and submit your application through the university's online graduate application system.
5. Apply for Financial Aid and ScholarshipsExplore financial aid options and scholarships available for graduate students. Many scholarships are awarded based on the strength of your admission application, but specific applications may be required for some.
6. Monitor Application StatusKeep track of your application status through the admissions portal.
Scholarships
World Bank Scholarship Program—
Jimenez Family Fellowship—
Ma McFarland Fellowship—
Forte Foundation Fellowship—
Native American Opportunity Plan (NAOP)Full in-state tuition and student services fees
Reaching Out MBA Fellowship (ROMBA)—
Center for Equity, Gender, & Leadership Fellowship—
Center for Responsible Business (CRB) Fellowship—
Allan Holt Fellowship—
Berkeley Haas ScholarshipsVaries
Blue Duck Scholarship—
Brian Maxwell Fellowship—
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the Master of Development Practice (MDP) program?
+
The Master of Development Practice (MDP) at UC Berkeley is a 21-month, STEM-designated program.
What are the career prospects for MDP graduates?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles in global development organizations, government, impact investing, corporate social responsibility, and startups. The program's STEM designation also allows for up to three years of work eligibility in the US through OPT.
How do I apply for the MDP program?
+
You should visit the Graduate Admissions website to explore program details and review application requirements. Gather necessary documents like transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose, then submit your application through the online system.
What are the tuition and fees for the MDP program?
+
Specific tuition fees for the MDP program are not detailed on the program page. Applicants should consult the official Berkeley Registrar's website for the most current and detailed financial information, including tuition and living costs.
What are the main components of the MDP curriculum?
+
The curriculum includes a core set of interdisciplinary subjects, a required summer internship after the first year, and a capstone project in the second year. Students can also take electives from the Goldman School of Public Policy and across the campus.
Are there scholarship opportunities for international students in the MDP program?
+
The program page lists external opportunities like the World Bank Scholarship Program, for which students must apply directly. Other fellowships may be available, and applicants are encouraged to explore financial aid and scholarship information on the university's official websites.