Master of Divinity and Master's in Development Practice (MDiv/MDP) in Atlanta United States | Emory University

Candler provides a combined Master of Divinity and Master's in Development Practice (MDivMDP) program in partnership with Emory's Laney Graduate School. This integrated curriculum enables students to merge theological education and ministerial preparation with international development training, completing both degrees in four years rather than the typical five years if pursued individually. Prospective students must submit separate applications to Candler and Laney; admission to both institutions qualifies them for the dual degree track, though each school maintains distinct admission processes and tuition structures. The MDP curriculum balances theoretical frameworks with practical approaches to development, exposing students to diverse disciplines such as global health, human rights, economics, governance, environmental systems, gender studies, and energy technologies. Core components include research methodology training, program evaluation, and impact assessment. The standard course progression begins with full-time enrollment at Candler during the first year, followed by two years in the MDP program featuring intensive summer field placements with accredited NGOs abroad. Students return to full-time studies at Candler for their final year.