Community-Based Development Certificate

Certificate Overview

This program is presented through Colorado State University's International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) and uses a multi-sector, participatory approach that focuses on empowerment of people as both the ends and means of a sustainable development process. Rather than teaching prescriptive solutions to community problems, we provide you with the tools to use the community's input and vision to create options and solutions that truly meet community needs.

The courses use the flexibility of online delivery to help you learn through case studies, exercises, and group discussions, providing a complete learning environment. You will learn from, and share experiences with, practitioners working in the field in such diverse places as India, Nepal, Peru, and the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. These courses give experienced practitioners a fresh perspective and provide novices and volunteers the training they need to be successful working in the field of development.

Benefits & Outcomes

This online certificate program is designed for people who plan to work or volunteer in community development, or who already work in this field and want to advance their careers. You will be prepared with practical tools to meet today's challenges as project directors, community leaders, grassroots activists, funders, and field workers in community-based organizations and governmental and nongovernmental organizations. With a wide variety of electives, you are able to tailor the program to meet your needs and interests.

Curriculum

To earn a certificate in community-based development, you must complete one required course and three elective courses of your choosing. Each course runs five weeks and requires a minimum of 20 hours of student participation. You may take courses in any order.

Required Course

Elective Courses (select three courses)