Community Development
Graduate Certificate
Grounded in a Christ-centered vision of justice and reconciliation, the fully online Graduate Certificate in Community Development equips mission-minded leaders to foster sustainable change among marginalized populations. Through four graduate-level courses drawn from Multnomah Biblical Seminary’s acclaimed Global Development & Justice curriculum, students gain actionable strategies for peacebuilding, economic renewal, and holistic ministry—without stepping away from their current roles.
About the Program
The 12-unit certificate offers an intensive yet flexible pathway for pastors, nonprofit practitioners, and marketplace professionals who want to integrate gospel compassion with proven community-development practice. Each course pairs biblical theology with field-tested frameworks: students analyze global development models, design participatory economic initiatives, address conflict and displacement, and craft transformative justice plans rooted in local culture. Faculty who actively consult for NGOs and church networks keep discussions anchored in real-world challenges, while the online format enables immediate application in home contexts. Credits may apply seamlessly to either the MA in Global Development and Justice degree or the Master of Divinity degree (Community Development concentration) for those pursuing further study, ensuring graduates leave ready to mobilize resources, build cross-sector partnerships, and lead holistic, Christ-centered community transformation at home and abroad.
Community Development Core: 12 Units
- Introduction to Global Development & Justice (GLS 501)
- Conflict, Refugees & Complex Disasters (GLS 515)
- Economic & Community Development (GLS 614)
- Peacebuilding & Transformative Justice (GLS 617)
To view all courses and course descriptions, please see our current Academic Catalog.
Admissions Requirements
The Graduate Certificate uses the MA in Global Development and Justice admission requirements. The student who completes the Graduate Certificate in Community Development may continue their studies by applying all their units toward a MA in Global Development and Justice degree or the Master of Divinity degree
- 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 a regionally accredited institution
- Official Transcripts
- The MAGDJ may consider applications from applicants with special circumstances in line with our accreditation and Multnomah Biblical Seminary policies.
Christ-focused community development plays a vital role in addressing systemic brokenness in our world. Local churches and non-profits are uniquely positioned to bring holistic healing and sustainable transformation rooted in the Gospel.
– Greg Burch, PhD
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.
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