What stirs you to act? Compassion initiatives? Poverty alleviation? Injustice in society?
The online Master of Arts in Global Development and Justice (MAGDJ) program builds on a foundation of biblical justice and international development with an emphasis on compassion initiatives, poverty alleviation, and combating injustices in society. This academic experience includes two weeks in Rwanda or Thailand during the program. You will connect with peers just as passionate about improving communities as you are. This program prepares community leaders, mission pastors, and cross-cultural workers in mission, justice, and humanitarian aid work in local or global contexts. If you are inspired by holistic, sustainable solutions that empower the hurting and strengthen the vulnerable, our online MAGDJ program is designed for you.
Experience the Contextual Residency Program
You will gain insights from practitioners working in NGOs outside of the U.S. in a two-week immersion experience. Travel to Rwanda or Thailand with faculty-guides. You will analyze historical and contemporary theories, evaluate socio-cultural contexts and socio-economic perspectives, and grow in their faith and understanding of God’s heart and love for humanity.
Example Courses
The courses listed below are some of our featured core classes that will be a part of your educational journey here at MU. Take a look at each course for a small preview.
This course examines biblical justice in relation to contemporary issues in both North American and international contexts. Issues such as race, immigration, human trafficking and sexual exploitation, poverty, violence, gender, creation care, and human dignity will be considered along with how to advocate for those who are oppressed and marginalized in society.
This course explores both theological and biblical principles in community development highlighting holistic ministry responses. Emphasis is placed on incarnational living, empowerment, and community participation in bringing about sustainable change and transformation to a variety of complex problems.
Surveys the contributing factors and intervention practices for responding to people impacted by conflict and natural disasters with an emphasis on the unique needs of refugees and internally displaced persons. The role of the Church and faith-based agencies in responding to these needs is explored.
This course explores the issues related to advocating for social change through international human rights mechanisms and philosophies and discusses the role of non-governmental organizations in civil discourse and public policies that affect the lives of the poor and others marginalized in society. Christian ethics and evidence-based models and research provide the fundamental guidelines in developing policies.
Degree Requirements
Here you will find everything you need to know about what is required to successfully complete your degree.
“The Contextual Residency trip made the biggest difference for me, as an online student. It helped me to feel like I had a community—a cohort where we could bounce ideas off each other, commiserate together, and just have each other as companions.”
Jennifer Bell '19, MAGDJ
Program Concentrations
Peace and Reconciliation
This concentration focuses on the need for peace in contexts of systemic injustices, war, conflict, tribal and racial tension, and communities where violence is common. Students who choose the Peace and Reconciliation concentration will take a distinct path of research and some specific courses designed to develop necessary skills for peace-building in global contexts. Internships and research projects will prepare these students to engage effectively in this field.
Bible and Theology
This emphasis is for those who plan to work in a vocational ministry or a church context and do not have previous biblical training. The Bible and Theology emphasis in MAGDJ includes earning a certificate offered by Multnomah Biblical Seminary (MBS) in Bible Foundations. This emphasis will ensure that you integrate biblical and theological education in the field of Global Development and Justice in a way that prepares you for Christian ministry. Your biblical and theological literacy will increase as you develop knowledge of both historical figures and biblical passages in the Old and New Testaments.
Career Placement
As an equipped, Christian leader, you will be ready to serve in mission, global development, and justice initiatives around the world where there is a great need. With your M.A. in Global Development & Justice, you will be prepared for any of the following careers:
| • Children at Risk Specialist | • Foreign Service Officer | • Global Justice Leader |
| • Inter-governmental Worker | • Outreach Entreprenuer | • Volunteer Aid Worker |
| • Development and Relief Specialist | • Community Development Worker | • Missions and Outreach Pastor |
MAGDJ Internship Program
Internships are a great way to broaden your network and gain hands-on experience in the workplace. Our MAGDJ program partners with a number of organizations whose internships provide you the opportunity to start making an impact now as you continue to get your education.
A research thesis is also an option instead of the required traditional internship, it usually takes two semesters and includes working with a thesis advisor. For more on these options please consult with the Director of the MAGDJ program.
Learn More about MAGDJ Internships
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