Master of Sustainable Development Practice

The Master of Sustainable Development Practice (MDP) Graduate Program at the University of Florida provides an interdisciplinary curriculum in the health sciences, natural sciences, social sciences and management skills through research and practice-based learning. This broad core curriculum is complemented by the opportunity to specialize in a particular field of interest from the university's diverse departments.
The program prepares students to take integrated approaches to advancing economic opportunity, public health, political empowerment and environmental conservation in Latin America, Africa and other regions of the world. Graduates will take their position among development professionals in international nonprofits, private enterprises, governments and policy institutions.

The MDP program envisions a strong participatory culture among our students and faculty. Students in the program are expected to develop certain competencies, which will be evaluated through learning outcomes developed by faculty in the program.

The University of Florida offers a Masters as well as a Certificate in Sustainable Development Practice. In this section you will find information on the graduate degree program and certificate degree program.

A recognized baccalaureate, graduate or professional degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or a comparable degree from an international institution.
Have a background and interest in conservation and/or development issues. This interest can be demonstrated through undergraduate course work, study abroad, internships, work and/or volunteer experiences.
A bachelor's degree or equivalent in a related field from an accredited college or university.
A 3.0 GPA or higher in all upper-division undergraduate coursework.
Required minimum score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam for non-exempt international applicants.
On your graduate school online application, search under COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES, and indicate that you are applying to the MDP Program by selecting 'SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PRACTICE (Master of Sustainable Development Practice). The application should include a statement of purpose, a CV or Resume, and 3 recommendation letters. You also have the option to upload copies of your transcripts and other documents. Official transcripts must still be sent from all prior academic institutions, if these are US institutions, to the UF Office of Admissions. If your prior academic institution is outside the US, then please upload to the online application system your unofficial transcripts and diplomas, with English translations if the originals are not in English.
Statement of purpose: Your statement of purpose should demonstrate your interest and understanding of sustainable development issues, taking into consideration your own perspective and background and highlighting the set of skills and experience you bring, both academic and practice-based. It should provide a thoughtful articulation of the potential field practicum project/research you aspire to carry out, and include your regional, disciplinary and topical interests. The statement of purpose should reflect the commitment and passion you will bring to the MDP Program and to your future career as a development practitioner.
CV or R'sum: Pursuant to Florida Statute, your application requires inclusion of all post-high school education and employment, as well as information about ongoing international affiliations and research funding. Please ensure this information is included on your curriculum vitae (CV) or r'sum.
3 letters of recommendation: At least one letter of recommendation must come from an academic source.
For applicants from countries where English is not the ofcial language, a minimum score on one of these English Language Skills tests, IELTS - 6.0,TOEFL IBT- 80, PBT- 550.