Master of Development Practice and Global Justice
Looking to make a real difference in the world and in your career?
The Master of Development Practice and Global Justice (MDPGJ) is an in-person graduate program at the University of Guelph designed for change-makers who want to tackle urgent global issues like inequality, climate justice, food insecurity, and systemic oppression.
In just eight months, you'll gain the practical skills, critical perspectives, and hands-on experience you need to launch or accelerate a career in development, advocacy, or policy.
Grounded in anti-racist, decolonial, and community-engaged approaches, this program offers you the chance to work directly with development organizations, build a standout portfolio, and learn from experts doing the work on the ground.
Prospective students are advised that the program is still subject to formal approval.
Considering Grad School? Join Us on November 13!
We're hosting an info session for the Master of Development Practice and Global Justice on Thursday, November 13 at noon, eastern time.
Whether you're actively preparing to apply or just exploring your options, this is your chance to:
- Meet the MDPGJ faculty
- Learn about the program and application process
- Get your questions answered in real time
Everyone welcome — no commitment required.
- Career-Ready Training
- Build your professional portfolio through career development workshops focused on networking, conflict resolution, and inclusive leadership.
- Experience Built In
- Apply what you learn in a community-engaged project with a development organization. No unpaid internships or travel required.
- Complete in 8 Months
- Earn your master's degree over two semesters at the University of Guelph's main campus and start working in the field sooner.
Program Format and Courses
The Master of Development Practice and Global Justice program is delivered in-person at the University of Guelph's main campus. You'll complete 3.75 credits, including six core courses, one restricted elective, and one open elective.
Time to Complete the Program
| Format | Start Date | Semesters | Months |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time study | September | 2 | 8 |
| Part-time study | September | 5 | 20 |
Note: The part-time study option is not available to international students.
The core courses you'll complete in the program are:
- Development Theory, Issues and Process
- Applied Statistical Evaluation of Development Projects
- Gender, Generation and Development
- Decolonisation in Development Practice
- Principles and Practice of Community-Engaged Development
- Professional Practice and Career Development
You'll also complete the following elective courses:
- Restricted elective: choose either Development and Global Justice or Diversity and Social Equality
- Free elective: choose an elective course from any discipline that's relevant to development and/or global justice
As a student in the Master of Development Practice and Global Justice program, you'll have experiential learning opportunities embedded throughout your degree:
- Community partnership projects
- Simulated statistical evaluation projects
- Role plays and case studies
- Anti-racism training modules
- Professional development portfolio
- Focus on Justice and Equity
- Every student takes courses on decolonization, anti-racism, and gender justice. You'll graduate with the tools to lead ethical and inclusive change.
- Supportive, Diverse Learning Environment
- Small class sizes, peer collaboration, and inclusive teaching make for a community where your voice matters.
- Stand Out to Employers
- Gain critical skills in program evaluation, data analysis, intercultural competence, and advocacy that development and policy employers are actively looking for.
Who Should Apply?
Career Pathways
Whether you're fresh out of undergrad or shifting into a purpose-driven path, the Master of Development Practice and Global Justice equips you to lead with impact, locally and globally.
The MDPGJ program is ideal for recent graduates and professionals seeking careers in:
- International and community development
- NGOs and humanitarian organizations
- Government and multilateral agencies
- Advocacy and policy organizations
- Corporate Social Responsibility
Guaranteed Admission Pathway for U of G Students
The Guelph Institute of Development Studies is proud to offer guaranteed admission to eligible University of Guelph students.
This pathway reserves spots in the Master of Development Practice and Global Justice for students who have graduated from certain Bachelor of Arts majors with an average of 80% or higher.
The eligible majors are: Anthropology, Environmental Governance, Geography, International Development Studies, Justice and Legal Studies, Political Science, and Sociology.
If you are applying from one of these majors, your application fee will be waived.
Applying to the Master of Development Practice and Global Justice
- Completion of a four-year honours undergraduate degree with a minimum average of B (73-76%) in the last two years of study.
- A four-year degree in a development-related discipline is preferred.
- Applicants with non-development backgrounds are encouraged to apply, provided they have at least 2.0 credits in development/international studies.
- Completion of a minimum of 3.0 credits in social science disciplines, and 0.5 credits in social science methods.
Relevant professional or lived experience will be considered in addition to academic record.
Note: The requirements may be in progress at the time of application but must be completed by April 30 of the entrance year.
See the full guide on applying to the MDPGJ.
As the Master of Development Practice and Global Justice is a new program, tuition rates have not yet been finalized, but will be available from Student Financial Services soon.
Students enrolled in the Master of Development Practice and Global Justice may be eligible for financial support through the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP).
In addition, a limited number of merit-based awards will be available to outstanding applicants at the time of admission. These awards are designed to recognize academic excellence and demonstrated commitment to development and global justice.
Get in Touch
Questions about the Master of Development Practice and Global Justice program? Contact:
Iman Shivji
Graduate Program Assistant
Guelph Institute of Development Studies
Email: mdpgj@uoguelph.ca