Who is the MDP programme for?
Individuals with a career interest or background in development practice and who would like to be part of a global network of people passionate about development.
Can international students apply?
International students are welcome and encouraged to apply to the MDP programme. Click here for information for international students and click here for information on fees for international students.
What jobs can I do with an MDP?
MDP graduates will be prepared for employment locally, nationally and globally, in national and international development agencies, non-governmental organizations, research institutes, government departments, financial institutions, private companies, media and civil society.
What does it mean that the MDP is part of a global network?
Students and faculty in participating universities have the opportunity to interact with each other and share learning resources in settings like the web-based global classroom course and to participate in international conferences of the Global MDP Association. In addition Universities within the network may have arrangements for student exchanges for coursework as well as for internships.
When does the MDP programme begin?
The MDP programme begins with the compulsory 12 week pre-MDP course which starts in mid-May every year.
How long is the MDP programme?
The Master of Development Practice with 61 credit equivalents of course work is approximately 24 months or 2 academic years, including a 3 month internship.
Is there a thesis requirement?
No. The MDP is a Master’s degree by coursework only.
In what language is the programme offered?
The medium of instruction is English.
Is there an option for a shorter course?
Yes. Students who register for the MDP and successfully complete 20 credit equivalents from 500 and 600 level courses over 1 academic year are eligible for a Diploma in Development Practice.
Is it possible to obtain the Master’s from only one year’s work if there is a previous post graduate diploma qualification?
No, it is not possible. Exemptions for individual courses may be possible, however all students following the MDP must complete 49 credits of compulsory (core) courses and 12 credits of optional courses.
Do I need to have a specific undergraduate degree?
No, the MDP is a generalist postgraduate degree suitable for individuals with an undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in social sciences, humanities, management, natural sciences, agriculture, engineering, health sciences, law etc.
Any other requirements?
English language proficiency is a requirement. Experience in the development field is an advantage, though not essential.
What selection criteria will be used to admit students to the MDP?
20-30 students will be admitted to the MDP programme using a competitive selection process. Selections will be based on an applicant’s educational qualifications, language proficiency, previous work experience in the development field, background, career goals and ability to undertake programme as expressed in the candidate’s statement of purpose and recommendation letter from a non-related referee. An interview and English proficiency test will be held to finalise the selection process.
Not all students who meet the minimum eligibility criteria will be accepted into the programme. All students will be informed of the result of the selection process.
When are classes held?
Classes are held on weekends, usually from 9 a.m. on Saturday morning to 2.30 p.m. on Sunday afternoon, from May to August (pre-MDP) and September to May (Semesters 1 and 2). See the Academic Calendar for further details.
When is the internship held?
It is held in between the 1st and 2nd years, for three months, usually from June 1st to August 31st, on weekdays.
How is it possible for the already employed students to undergo internship during weekdays?
Students who are already employed will have the option to complete their internships within their respective organizations, provided that their organization meets certain pre-specified requirements.
Will all the students get the opportunity to undergo overseas field training?
No. Only a selected number of students will receive the opportunity to undergo overseas field training.
Are field training (internship) costs (overseas or local) included in the course fee?
No. The cost related to field training is not included in the fees. Students must bear the cost of field training themselves. Only expenses related to in-course field work and practical work are included in the fees.
When is the call for applications?
Applications for the following academic year are accepted from November of the previous calendar year. E.g. Applications for the 2015-17 programme will be accepted from November 2014.
When is the application deadline?
Deadlines are typically the end of January for admission in the same year. See Applications process page for current deadline.
What is required in the application?
See application form and guidelines on the Applications process page.
How much does the MDP cost?
See fee structure here.
For more information
To be placed on a mailing list, email mdp@pdn.ac.lk
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