2023-2024 University Catalog

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Master of Arts in Global Development and Justice

DR. GREG BURCH, PROGRAM DIRECTOR

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

Guiding Values of the Program

We are guided by the following values:

  • Innovation
  • Critical-Thinking
  • Global and Local Partnerships
  • Practical Experience
  • Technical Expertise
  • Diversity Appreciation

Program Outcomes

On the completion of this program students will be able to:

  • Understand the biblical and theological nature of integral mission and effective Christian witness. (GDJ.1)
  • Recognize the importance of socio-cultural sensitivity and competency while emphasizing servanthood and humility. (GDJ.2)
  • Analyze historical and contemporary theories and best practices. (GDJ.3)
  • Examine the Church's role in advocating and addressing structural, institutional, and individual injustices in a healthy and sustainable manner. (GDJ.4)
  • Implement and promote capacity-building, participation, and localization efforts. (GDJ.5)
  • Apply technical skills in project design, monitoring and evaluation, and data management. (GDJ.6)
  • Exhibit leadership and non-profit management skills, including project management, and effective communication. (GDJ.7)
  • Understand global human rights and humanitarian systems. (GDJ.8)

On-campus Program

The on-campus program requires that classes be taken on-campus in Portland, Oregon.  Classes meet on campus once a week on Wednesdays.  Our four credit courses meet for three-hours (three-hour seat time) and each contain an additional one-hour online component to meet the required four hour seat time.

The tracks available for the on-campus program include:

  • Standard: The standard track requires that students take one class per 8-week session.  There are two sessions each semester (8 credit hours).
  • Executive: The executive track is designed with the experienced relief, development and justice worker in mind.  This program is developed utilizing prior learning assessment (PLA) and is customized to the needs of the student.  Permission from the program director is required for this track.  Students can complete their program in 1-4 years.
  • Part-time:  The part-time track is for those students who are looking for a program that includes only one class per semester or a customized academic experience that is slower paced.  Students can complete their program in 3-4 years. 

Online Program

The online program can be taken fully online with several face-to-face opportunities available, including global immersion classes abroad, with professors and students.  Most classes are offered in 8 week sessions.

The tracks available for the online program include:

  • Standard:  The standard track requires that students take one course at a time in our 8-week sessions.  The student will complete this degree track in 20 months.
  • Executive:  The executive track is designed with the experienced relief, development and justice worker in mind.  This program is developed utilizing prior learning assessment (PLA) and is customized to the needs of the student.  Permission from the program director is required for this track.  Students can complete their program in 1-4 years. 
  • Part-time:  The part-time track is for those students who are looking for a program that includes only one class per semester or a customized academic experience that is slower paced.  Students can complete their program in 3-4 years.

Application Procedure

The priority deadline to apply for both the MAGDJ on-campus program and our online program is March 1. On-campus and online cohorts begin in the fall. Applications are welcome anytime and admission decisions are made on a rolling basis as space allows. The Admission Committee generally makes decisions on application files upon receipt of a signed MAGDJ Application for Admission, including the admission essay and $40 application fee, two reference forms (a Christian Character Reference Form and an Academic Reference form), official academic transcripts for all postsecondary coursework, and completion of an admission interview with the MAGDJ program director (or designee).

Admission Requirements

  • Possess a four-year baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university (or a nationally accredited program that has the academic breadth required to ensure success academically in graduate studies at MU), with an overall minimum 3.0 grade point average.
  • Evidence of a personal faith, having committed his/her life to Jesus Christ as personal Savior, and of a commitment to the mission and values of Multnomah University.
  • Evidence of capability to succeed academically and professionally.

Graduation Requirements

  • Complete all general graduation requirements as listed earlier in this section.
  • Complete required program credits with at least 18 credits earned at Multnomah.
  • Earn a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 (4.0 scale).
  • Complete 200 hours internship experience or a Master's Thesis.
  • The program is normally completed within a five-year period from the date of matriculation.

Advance Track in M.A. Global Development and Justice (MAGDJ)

Multnomah University undergraduate students who have an interest in studying in the Master's degree in Global Development and Justice (MAGDJ) may seek advance entry into the program by submitting an abbreviated application for the MAGDJ program in the second half of their junior year in college (usually having completed 72-76 credits).  If accepted for early admittance, students will take graduate classes as part of their undergraduate elective units during their senior year.  All of these classes will meet undergraduate requirements and allow for students to transfer into the MAGDJ program after graduation with advanced standing.  For many students, this will lead to a one-year graduate degree in Global Development and Justice.  Students in Global Studies and other majors are encouraged to apply.

Application Procedures:

  • Students must be in the second term of their junior year when applying.
  • Students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
  • Students must complete an abbreviated application for the MAGDJ program, which includes an admissions essay and a personal interview (application fee is waived).
  • Exhibit professional attitudes and behaviors in their coursework and personal interactions on campus.

Upon acceptance into this track:

  • Students must maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA.
  • Continue to exhibit professional attitudes and behaviors.
  • Students must pass all graduate coursework with a "C" or better.

Students in the Advance MAGDJ Track will generally take the courses listed below during their senior year:

  • GLS501 Introduction to Global Development and Justice 4
  • GLS515 Conflict, Refugees & Complex Disasters 4
  • GLS614 Community and Economic Development 4
  • GLS617 Peacebuilding & Transformative Justice 4

FACULTY:  Ruben Alvarado, Leroy Barber, Sean Benesh, Greg Burch, Karen Fancher, Matthew Farlow, Rodney Green, Paul Metzger, Michael Pucci, Brandon Stiver, Leah Wheeler.