GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT & JUSTICE

Master of Arts

The Master of Arts in Global Development and Justice (MAGDJ) prepares students to work across the nexus of justice, transformational development and peacebuilding. Together with biblical insights and best practices, the program prepares community development leaders, cross-cultural workers, justice leaders and humanitarian specialists in cross-sector vocational skills. The curriculum develops compassionate leaders and administrators who are trauma-informed, passionate about advocating for the vulnerable and better prepared to support human flourishing.

Pending Approval for Veterans Education Benefits in Portland, OR.

36 UNITS

21-24 MONTHS

PORTLAND CAMPUS & REMOTE

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

In this program, students will develop a learning community with their peers and professors who have both academic expertise and practical experience. If you are inspired by Christ-centered, holistic, sustainable solutions that build capacity in vulnerable communities in the U.S. or abroad, the MAGDJ program is designed for you.

The curriculum of the MAGDJ is crafted to equip workers in non-profit relief organizations and includes a unique emphasis on peacebuilding. In a world marked by war, genocide, refugees and shattered communities, the MAGDJ expands the knowledge and skills necessary to make a difference.

This program equips students for service in some of the most challenging sectors of the world. Students will apply the skills that they learned through one of two outlets, either by participating in a hands-on Internship or developing a deeper dive into research and a thesis on an area of relevance and immediate application.

Articulate the biblical and theological underpinnings for global development and justice.

Demonstrate socio-cultural sensitivity and competency while emphasizing service and humility.

Apply historical and contemporary theories and best practices related to development and justice.

Address structural, institutional, and individual injustices in a healthy and sustainable manner.

Utilize technical skills in project design, monitoring, evaluation, and data management to development and justice needs.
Discuss global human rights and humanitarian systems.

Available on-campus in Portland, Oregon. Classes meet on campus one evening a week, with additional online components.
Available in fully distance mode (pending Summer 2024 approvals), with synchronous faculty sessions, and additional self-guided work.
Seasoned faculty with expertise and experience in global development, peacebuilding, and justice initiatives.
Perfect for students who serve or feel called to serve in development and/or justice organizations.
Accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of The Association of Theological Schools.

Program Courses (36 units)

GLS501 | Introduction to Global Development and Justice
GLS515 | Conflict, Refugees, and Complex Disasters
GLS614 | Economic and Community Development
GLS617 | Peacebuilding and Transformative Justice
GLS618 | Children at Risk in Global Contexts
GLS621 | Non-Profit Leadership and Project Management
GLS711 | Human Rights and Public Policy
GLS724 | Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning
GLS630/GLS640 | 100-hour Internship I or 100-Hour Internship II
OR
GLS750/GLS760 | Thesis I or Thesis II

Admissions Requirements

3.0 Cumulative GPA
- If less than 3.0, include an explanation of prior performance and describe the experiences and skills you believe indicate your ability to succeed at the graduate level.
Personal Statement: Please upload a personal statement essay of 500 words on why this program is valuable for your ministry.
2 Letters of Recommendation
Bachelor’s Degree from Regionally Accredited Institution
Official Transcripts

Dr. Greg Burch

Program Director

This program provides professionals in relief and development work with skills to be agents of change in communities where there is great need.

FACULTY

Jessup's dedicated community of faculty, both full-time and adjunct, are here to walk alongside you, equipping you with the knowledge and values you'll need to establish a meaningful career, grow spiritually, and succeed in all areas of your life. Learn more about our full-time faculty.

Greg Burch, Ph.D.

Associate Professor - School of Theology & Leadership

Dr. Karen Fancher, D.Int.St.

Associate Professor - School of Theology & Leadership

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