A Solution for Liberia & Beyond
Affordable, Accessible Higher Education in Central Liberia
Our Mission: Quality & Impact
Committed to Quality, Useful Skills, and Real-World Success
Programs at a Glance
At the Miriam T. O’Bryant-Development Studies Center (MTOB-DSC), we offer a structured pathway to turn your passion for community service into a professional career. Our programs are designed to be affordable, accessible, and intensely practical, preparing you to become an effective agent of change. Choose the path that best fits your goals:
Associate Degree
A comprehensive 2-year program providing foundational knowledge in development studies with specialized pathways.
- 2-year program duration
- Six specialization options
- 51+ credit hours
- Pathway to bachelor's degree
Diploma Programs
Focused programs designed to provide specialized skills for immediate application in development work.
- 12-18 month duration
- Practical skill development
- Fieldwork components
- Professional certification
Certificate Programs
Short-term focused training in specific development areas for skill enhancement and professional development.
- 3-6 month duration
- Flexible scheduling
- Modular courses
- Immediate applicability
Ready To Start Your Journey?
Join the Miriam T. O'Brien Development Studies Center and become part of Liberia's next generation of development professionals. For over 20 years, DEN-L has been at the forefront of grassroots empowerment and capacity building.
Application Process
- Sit and Pass Entrance Examination
- Obtain Application Package
- Submit All Required documents
- Document Verification & Application Review
- Receive Admission Letter
"We uphold equity and justice, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to utilize their potential and secure lasting improvement in their lives."
Begin Your Application
Start your journey in Development Studies today. Choose from our Certificate, Diploma, or Associate Degree programs.
Access Application Form Find Out MoreReady to Join Us Today?
Apply online to be a part of Miriam T. O’Brien-Development Studies Center for the 2026/2027 academic year.
About MTOB-DSC (Building Capacity for a Liberian Renaissance)
For over 20 years, our parent organization, DEN-L, has been at the forefront of grassroots empowerment, economic justice, and democratic development in Liberia. We witnessed a critical gap: a lack of affordable, specialized higher education for the very community workers and students passionate about rebuilding our nation. The MTOB-DSC is our answer. Named in honor of Miriam T. O’Bryant, the Center is built on the belief that transformative change begins with education. We provide a viable alternative to high school graduates and professionals seeking to turn their passion for service into a powerful career. Our curriculum is designed to ensure academic rigor meets real-world application.
Our Mission
MTOB-DSC is committed to providing its participants with quality and useful skills and educational experiences that support the successful completion of degrees, diplomas and certificates in relevant programs based on participants needs. We foster success through real-life learning, critical thinking, and an unwavering commitment to equity, meritocracy, and accountability.
Our Vision
The MTOB-DSC envisages an environment with useful and excellent training opportunities that are responsive to the needs of our participants, and prepare them to overcome personal, institutional and societal challenges to foster growth at all levels.
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Academic Award
Why Choose MTOB-DSC?
Discover what makes our Development Studies Center the premier choice for aspiring change-makers
Affordable Education
We believe quality education should be accessible to all, with tuition designed for community workers and recent graduates.
- Community-Friendly Tuition
- Equal Access to Quality Learning
- Empowering the Next Generation
Real-World Focus
Our curriculum blends theory with practical application, preparing you to address Liberia's unique development challenges.
- Hands-On Learning
- Locally Relevant Curriculum
- Career-Ready Training
Expert Faculty
Learn from experienced practitioners and academics who have dedicated their careers to development work in Liberia.
- Experienced Mentors
- Development-Focused Expertise
- Guidance Beyond the Classroom
Community Partnerships
Gain hands-on experience through our network of partnerships with local organizations and communities.
- Practical Engagement
- Stronger Networks
- Community Impact
Equity & Inclusion
We're committed to creating an environment that respects all genders, ethnicities, and backgrounds.
- Respect for Diversity
- Inclusive Learning Environment
- Opportunity for All
Career Impact
Our graduates leave equipped to make immediate contributions to development organizations and community initiatives.
- Job-Ready Skills
- Community Leadership
- Global Relevance
Meet Our Faculty: Learn from Leaders in Development
Explore the profiles of our dedicated administrative leaders and support staff who ensure the smooth operation of our school. From academic coordinators to office administrators, meet the team working behind the scenes to create an efficient and nurturing
Peter S. Dolo
- Executive Director -Peter S. Dolo: Peter is the Executive Director of DEN-L and also a chief programmer...
Johnson Z. Kesselly
- Former Executive Directors -Johnson Z. Kesselly: Johnson is one of the former Executive Directors of DEN-L who served...
Beatrice K. Sondah
- Deputy Program Director -Beatrice K. Sondah: Beatrice is the Deputy Director for Programs. He has vast experience in...
Varney Alieu Folley
- Reform Specialist -Varney Alieu Folley: Varney is an adept public sector reform specialist with a notable tenure...
Get Latest News & Upcoming Events
Stay updated with the latest happenings at Dolokelen Gboveh High School
Updates
New Development Studies Center Launches in Gbarnga
To bridge Critical Capacity Gaps, the Development Education Network-Liberia (DEN-L) has officially established the Miriam T. O’Bryant-Development Studies Center (MTOB-DSC) in Gbarnga, Bong County. The center aims to provide affordable and accessible higher education and professional training to community workers, civil society actors, and recent high school graduates who lack the financial means to attend traditional universities. The new institution offers an Associate Degree, Diploma, and Certificate programs focused on practical, field-based development work.
Read MoreDEN-L Introduces Affordable Associate Degree Programs
To Combat Youth Unemployment in Central Liberia and Responding to the high rate of unemployed high school graduates, the newly formed MTOB-DSC is offering a two-year Associate Degree in Development Studies. The program is designed as a direct alternative to high-risk income-generating activities, providing specialized skills in areas like Community Development, Conflict Resolution, and Monitoring & Evaluation. The curriculum, developed in collaboration with consultants from the University of Liberia, emphasizes real-life learning and critical thinking to prepare students for professional careers in Liberia's development sector.
Read MoreCalendar of Events
MTOB-DSC Open House & Program Information Session
Workshop: Foundations of Organizational Development (DEV 231)
Our Programs
Our practical, affordable programs are designed to equip you with the skills to lead change. Whether you're a recent graduate or a community professional, we offer a clear path to a meaningful career through Associate Degrees, Diplomas, and Certificates. Specialize in high-demand fields like Community Development, Conflict Resolution, Gender & Youth Advocacy, NGO Management, and Monitoring & Evaluation. Learn through real-world projects and become the expert your community needs.
Associate of Arts (AA) in Development Studies
A comprehensive two-year degree program designed to prepare students for professional-level practice in the development...
- Duration: 2 Years (4 Semesters)
- Credit Hours: 51+
- Specializations: Choose from six focused tracks.
Diploma in Development Studies
A focused one-year program for those seeking deep, practical skill-building to fast-track their entry into...
- Duration: 1 Year
- Focus: Intensive, hands-on learning in a specific field.
- Ideal For: Current NGO staff, community workers, and career-changers.
Certificate in Development Studies
Short-term, modular courses for professionals and volunteers who need to upskill quickly with certified expertise...
- Duration: 3-6 Months (Modular)
- Format: Part-time, with weekend and evening modules.
- Topics Include: Project M&E, Trauma Healing, Conflict Analysis, Community Theatre.
Specialization Tracks (for AA & Diploma Programs)
Become a multifaceted agent of change by learning to analyze and improve organizational health, empower...
- Development & Organizational Development
- Gender, Youth & Social Inclusion
- Conflict Resolution & Peacebuilding
Meet Our Lecturers
Discover the profiles of our committed faculty members who bring learning to life. From experienced lecturers to development practitioners, meet the educators who guide, mentor, and inspire students to achieve their fullest potential both inside and outsi
Dr. Francis Jones
- Lecturer -Voices from Our Community-The MTOB-DSC Impact
For over 20 years, Development Education Network-Liberia (DEN-L) has been committed to grassroots empowerment and building critical capacity in Liberia. The Miriam T. O’Bryant-Development Studies Center (MTOB-DSC) is our latest initiative to answer the resounding call for affordable, accessible, and practical education in Gbarnga and beyond. But don't just take our word for it. Here are the stories from those who are experiencing the transformation firsthand.
Dr. Jones
Student and Local Business CEO"After high school, university felt like a distant dream due to the costs. I was lost. MTOB-DSC gave me a perfect alternative. Now, I'm gaining practical skills in Community Development instead of resorting to high-risk jobs. This center isn't just a school; it's a lifeline for young people like me who are determined to build a better future for ourselves and our communities."
Anderson Johnson
– A civil society actor and development professional"For years, I've worked in the field with passion but felt I lacked the formal theoretical foundation to advance my career. The Associate Degree in Development Studies at MTOB-DSC is exactly what I needed. The blend of core principles and specialty options like Monitoring & Evaluation has equipped me with both the knowledge and the practical tools to design and manage more effective projects. It's professional development that's directly applicable to my work in Liberia."
Jenerfer Johnson
– A community advocate and peacebuilder"The program's focus on equity, justice, and critical thinking resonates deeply with me. Courses like 'Gender and Development' and 'Trauma Healing and Reconciliation' are not just academic; they are essential for the work of healing and building our nation post-conflict. MTOB-DSC is fostering a space where we can learn, reflect, and develop the skills to become authentic agents of change in our communities."
Robert Wilson
– An aspiring student"Finally, an affordable and quality education option in Gbarnga that understands our local challenges and prepares us to solve them."
Contact the Development Studies Center
Have questions about our Associate Degree, Diploma, or Certificate programs in Development Studies? Ready to apply and make a difference in your community? The team at Miriam T. O’Bryant-Development Studies Center is here to guide you. Reach out to us for information on admissions, course details, and how you can join our mission to build critical capacity for Liberia's future. Visit our CONTACT PAGE below or call +231 000 000 000.
Contact Us For More Info
We'd love to hear from you. Reach out with any questions or to schedule a visit.
Location:
Development Education Network - Liberia, Off Kokoyah Road, Gbarnga, R/L
Email:
info@mobdsc1.org
Call:
+231 000 000 000
Office Hours:
7:30AM-5:00PM-Monday to Friday