MDP in Indigenous Development in Canada at UWinnipeg Canada

Program Overview for MDP in Indigenous Development in Canada:

The Master of Development Practice (MDP) is an innovative professional degree offered by a network of more than 37 leading universities on six continents. The University of Winnipeg MDP project is the only MDP project that focuses on how local knowledge and experience can help shape a sustainable development path rooted in culture and identity. 

Human rights. climate change. Land and territory. Biodiversity. water. Language and inheritance. Natural resources. Social inclusion. Economic gap. disease. sovereignty. There are no basic political, social, economic, and cultural issues of our time that do not affect or remain unaffected by indigenous peoples. Without understanding the indigenous lifestyle and worldview, no development process can be successfully implemented. This is why the core of the University of Winnipeg Aboriginal Development MDP seamlessly integrates development theory and practice with indigenous knowledge and cultural experience.

As a global, interdisciplinary, and professional project, MDP cultivates the skills necessary to become successful practitioners of sustainable development.  Indigenous knowledge and experience are at the core of innovative curricula spanning health, management, natural sciences, and social sciences. The 24-month course is very practical. The 54 credit course emphasizes problem-solving, case studies, group projects, and critical self-reflection, and class assignments are designed to develop the skills necessary to become effective developmental professionals.

Through two field internships, students have the opportunity to put what they have learned into practice, gain meaningful development experience, and make important connections with organizations committed to indigenous development around the world. The MDP Vocational Counselor provides industry-related and specific vocational counseling for students who are interested in participating in Aboriginal development work. 

Join a prestigious global network of students, alumni, and development organizations connected by the MDP Secretariat within the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN). With MDP programs spread across all continents, as well as cooperative organizations ranging from the local and regional government and public and private non-governmental organizations to large multinational organizations, Winnipeg MDP students have an instant global network.

The eligibility for MDP in Indigenous Development in Canada for both domestic and international student is:

In addition to meeting the criteria for entrance to Graduate School, a recognized 4-Year General or Honours Bachelor Degree in a relevant subject area with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0, successful applicants demonstrate the following:

• experience and/or research achievement in the broad field of development practice; 
• some familiarity with Indigenous cultures and understanding of issues relating to Indigenous development;
• some experience working as a development practitioner;
• outstanding written and oral communication skills;
• critical thinking and analytical skills;
• a proven ability to collaborate and work well in teams.

Other Required Documents:

• Transcripts from ALL recognized, post-secondary institutions attended, whether or not a degree has been awarded. For initial assessment purposes only, copies of unofficial transcripts (uploaded to your application) are acceptable. Official transcripts will only be required if you are recommended for admission. All official transcripts are to be sent directly from the post-secondary institution. If the final transcript does not show a completed degree has been conferred, an official/notarized copy of your diploma is also required.
• Supply two confidential letters of recommendation from individuals most familiar with your academic work and relevant experience. Letters should be signed and sealed if they are submitted by the student as part of an application package.
• Attach a statement of interest of 500 words, which includes a brief description of your undergraduate training, your reasons for applying to this program, and your areas of research interest in cultural studies.
• Two letters of recommendation and reference forms from individuals familiar with your academic work.
• Other supporting documents: CV/resumé and proof of permanent residency (if applicable).

These are the test eligibilities for the MDP in Indigenous Development to qualify.

The international student tuition fees and costs for MDP in Indigenous Development in Canada.

We recruit 10-15 graduate students per year for the two-year MDP program. We build each cohort to be diverse with a mix of Canadian and international students with Indigenous and non-Indigenous identities.

All students are encouraged to apply for major external awards such as the Tri-Council Awards (SSHRC, CIHR, NSERC), the University of Winnipeg President’s Scholarship for World Leaders and the UWinnipeg Graduate Studies Scholarship (UWGSS).

The MDP program requires two field internships, one in Canada and one internationally. Through the internship, you will deepen your knowledge and improve your ability as an intern. The internship is an excellent opportunity to understand the relationship between the classroom and theoretical analysis and field experience. 

By working with professionals, community leaders, technical experts, and community members, you will gain first-hand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing Indigenous communities in Canada and around the world.