Shape Your Future in
Development Studies

Join Miriam T. O'Brien Development Studies Center and become a catalyst for positive change in your community and beyond.

2-Year Program
AA Degree Level
12-18 Month Program
Diploma Level
3-6 Month Program
Certificate Level
Specialize Program
Local Government Program
6
Specialty Tracks
51+
Credit Hours
100%
Practical

Program Overview

Associate Degree in Development Studies - A comprehensive 2-year program

Associate Degree in Development Studies

A multidimensional field dealing with contextualization, planning, and implementation of prescribed activities for transforming society through sustainable growth and development.

  • 2-year comprehensive program
  • Theory and practical application
  • Career-focused curriculum
  • 6 specialty track options
51+
Credit Hours

Diploma in Development Studies

A focused, one-year program designed for professionals and community workers seeking to enhance their practical skills in specific areas of development practice without the full commitment of a degree.

  • 1-year intensive program
  • Hands-on, practical skill development
  • Ideal for working professionals
  • Choose one focused specialty track
30
Credit Hours

Certificate in Development Studies

A short-term, modular program offering targeted training in a specific competency area. Perfect for gaining crucial skills quickly to advance your career or contribute effectively to community projects.

  • 6-month specialized program
  • Module-based, flexible learning
  • Fast-track skill acquisition
  • Focus on a single professional competency
15
Credit Hours

Certificate in Local Government

A focused and practical program designed to equip current and aspiring local government officials with the essential knowledge and skills for effective, ethical, and decentralized governance in Liberia.

  • 8-week intensive program (over 3 months)
  • Grounded in Liberian Legal Framework and policies and other relevant international instrument
  • Highly practical with case studies & participatory learning
  • Designed for county, district, and municipal leaders
30+
Credit Hours

Specialty Tracks

Choose your area of focus in Year 2

Development & Organizational Development

Learn organizational development principles and international practices

9 Credit Hours
Gender & Youth Development

Focus on social inclusion, gender equality, and youth empowerment

18 Credit Hours
Conflict Resolution

Master conflict management, peacebuilding, and reconciliation

21 Credit Hours
Community Theatre

Theatrical arts with social relevance and community impact

20 Credit Hours
Community Development

Rural and urban development, agriculture extension, and planning

18 Credit Hours
Monitoring & Evaluation

Project planning, monitoring techniques, and evaluation methods

6 Credit Hours

Course Prerequisites

Essential foundation courses required for program completion

Core Courses

Knowledge common to all areas of development studies

DEV 111 - Introduction to Development Studies I 3 Credits
DEV 222 - Introduction to Development Studies II 3 Credits
DEV 212 - Socio-Economic Development 3 Credits
DEV 213 - Introduction to Rural Development I 3 Credits
DEV 214 - Introduction to Rural Development II 3 Credits
DEV 215 - Non-Governmental Organizations and Development 3 Credits

DEV 214 - Sociological Perspectives on Development 3 Credits
CMD 124 - Introduction to Urban Development 3 Credits
CMD 122 - Project Planning, Monitoring & Evaluation 3 Credits

DEV 218 - Development Seminar I 3 Credits
DEV 219 - Development Seminar II 3 Credits

Prerequisite Courses

Foundation courses required before specialization
ENG 111 - English Comprehension and Composition
3 Credits
STAT 111 - Social Statistics I
2 Credits
STAT 112 - Social Statistics II
2 Credits
COM 212 - Computer Application
3 Credits

Total Program Credits

51+

Credits vary according to specialty options

Admission Process

Follow these simple steps to begin your journey

Step 1: Entrance Examination

Sit and successfully pass the entrance examination.

Duration: 2 hours
Format: Written Exam
Step 2: Obtain Your Application Package

After passing the entrance exam, collect your official application package from the Admissions Office or have it downloaded

Location: Admissions Office
Available: Within 2 days of results
  • Application Form
  • Medical Examination Form
  • Recommendation Form(s)
  • Fee Schedule
  • Checklist of Required Supporting Documents
  • Instruction/Guidelines Sheet
Step 3: Application Submission

Complete and submit your application form with all required documents.

  • Completed application form
  • Medical Certificate
  • High school diploma/certificate
  • Official transcripts
  • Two passport photographs
Step 4: Document Verification & Application Review

Your submitted documents will be verified by the Admissions Office to ensure completeness and authenticity.

Verification of transcripts & certificates
Eligibility review for admission
Step 5: Admission Decision

Receive your admission letter within 1 week after completing all requirements.

Processing Time: 7 working days
Step 6: Enrollment & Payment

Confirm your enrollment by paying tuition fees and completing registration.

Tuition Payment
Student ID
Orientation
Application Package Curriculum Student Handbook Information Brochure

Ready to Begin?

Take the first step towards your future in development studies. Contact our admission team for more information.

Location
Gbarnga City, Bong County, Liberia
Phone
+231 XXX XXX XXX
Email
admissions@mtobdsc.org

Quick Inquiry