Harvard University

Overview

The Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Global Development Practice at Harvard University equips students with interdisciplinary skills to address sustainable development challenges. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, culminating in a capstone project. Designed for working professionals, the course is primarily delivered online, offering structured academic support throughout the duration of the program.

What you'll study

The program consists of core and elective courses that cover essential themes in global development. Key components include:

• Core and graduate coursework:
  • Proseminar (required): Critical Analysis of Global Development Systems
  • Foundations (required): Introduction to Sustainability and Environmental Management
  • Academic focus areas (typical course themes): global development theory and practice, economics and development finance, global health, sustainability and environmental management, and social science methods
  • Writing requirement: Writing in the Social Sciences (completed as specified in the admission requirements)
• Electives and additional courses: After completing the core courses, students can choose additional graduate courses to deepen their knowledge in development practice, sustainability, and applied analysis. Course offerings may vary by term.
• Capstone requirement: The capstone experience allows students to engage in a case study, consult for a partner organization, or develop an innovation plan. This includes an on-campus component to facilitate peer collaboration and mentorship from faculty.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong academic background, typically with a recommended GPA of 3.0 or higher. Proficiency in English is also required, and applicants may be asked to demonstrate their language skills through standardized tests.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Global Development Practice program can pursue diverse career paths in international development, policy analysis, non-profit management, and sustainability consulting. The program's interdisciplinary approach prepares students to effectively tackle complex global challenges and contribute to sustainable solutions in various sectors.