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Certificate in International Development
Understand the drivers behind international development
This certificate is no longer accepting new students. Interested students may want to consider the Certificate in Global Affairs or Certificate in Monitoring and Evaluation.
Over the past several decades, more than a billion people around the world have been pulled out of extreme poverty. However, inequities within and between countries persist as hundreds of millions of people in developing countries continue to live in abject, debilitating poverty, where health and education outcomes remain unacceptably low, and the impact of economic activity on the environment and climate change leave vulnerable populations in poor countries especially at risk. This certificate will analyze the historical, political, economic, and social factors shaping international development and what is being done through the Sustainable Development Goals to improve the lives of people living in poverty around the world. The certificate will also examine the critical role of civil society and the public and private sectors in advancing the goals of international development.
Courses in this certificate will explore economic, social and political development and the key actors and theories that explain, inform and drive international development. Courses will provide a deep dive into the key elements and related metrics of international development, including economic growth and poverty, health, education, governance, and the environment. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to explore critical, cross-cutting topics that impact international development, including gender equality, human rights, disaster preparedness, and finance for development.
This program consists of five courses—including two required and three electives. For students with no academic or professional experience in International Development, we suggest starting with one of the required courses first if possible. Courses include sessions scheduled for evenings and weekends Eastern Time. Students are required to attend at least 80% of these sessions per course.
Format
Requirements
5 courses
Estimated Total Certificate Cost
$3,500*
*Based on course prices for AY 25-26, subject to change.
Why This Certificate?
What You'll Study
TWO REQUIRED COURSES
ELECTIVE COURSES - SELECT 3
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Certificate Specifics
Who should get a Certificate in International Development?
The Certificate in International Development provides professionals with foundational skills and knowledge required for impactful roles across sectors such as NGOs, international development agencies, government programs, research institutions, think tanks, and consulting firms.
Samples of titles might include:
Program Manager/Coordinator – Oversee and manage development projects in areas such as education, healthcare, or infrastructure.
Project Officer – Support and execute specific initiatives for international organizations or NGOs.
Policy Analyst – Research and develop policies to address global challenges, such as poverty, climate change, or public health.
Advocacy Officer – Work with governments and organizations to promote sustainable development policies.
Grants Manager – Secure and manage funding for development projects.
In what order should I take classes?
There is no required sequence for courses, however, it is suggested that students take one of the two required courses in the first semester. The required courses typically alternate being offered in the fall and spring semesters and elective offerings rotate throughout the academic year.
How much time should I dedicate to this program on a weekly basis?
Courses are designed for working professionals. Expected time commitments vary by course and familiarity with course content but students generally report that they spend 2-4 hours per week on coursework outside of class time on average.
Additional Questions?
Contact sps.global.affairs@nyu.edu
General Certificate FAQ
Do I need to declare candidacy for a certificate before taking my courses?
It’s preferable if you do, but you can still declare candidacy even after taking a course. Declaring candidacy does not commit you to completing it, but you will receive a 10% discount on future NYU SPS continuing education courses.
Can I apply my 10% discount on courses I’ve already taken?
Assuming the course is part of the certificate, yes, but only if the course was taken within an acceptable time frame. The academic department gives students a specific amount of time to complete a certificate. The start date would be adjusted to the first class to which we applied the discount.
Do I get a digital badge for my certificate?
Yes, if a student declares candidacy for a certificate and achieves an average overall grade of B or higher in courses counting toward the certificate, they will be awarded a certificate badge upon completion, which will be shareable on their resume and LinkedIn profile.
Do we get financial aid for these courses?
No, continuing education courses and certificates do not qualify for financial aid.
Can this course be applied to a degree?
Most continuing education programs do not count as credit toward a degree.
More questions about certificates, courses, or registration?
Please contact sps.info@nyu.edu.