MA in Community Development and Planning (10-unit track) in Worcester United States | Clark University

Community development goes far beyond just planning documents and land use regulations. It's about nurturing environments where individuals can thrive. Areas with ample parks and greenery for recreation and leisure. Locations that provide financial possibilities enabling residents to pursue their goals and ambitions. Neighborhoods where people can obtain excellent, culturally appropriate nutrition, schooling, medical care, and homes. At Clark, you'll explore the systems of influence that mold communal areas, and methods to establish inclusive processes where residents help shape those systems.

Community growth occurs within networks of connections. As professionals, we shouldn't force our personal ideas onto neighborhoods. Instead, through hands-on community learning, students work alongside residents and partners to recognize each area's distinctive assets, then jointly develop approaches to help aspirations blossom.

Rooted in ethical community involvement principles, we equip students with expertise in budgeting, initiative coordination, assessment techniques, geographic mapping, and nonprofit administration. These competencies are essential for becoming an effective collaborator in a community's evolution.

10-credit program finished in three terms (beginning Fall or Spring)