Graduate Diploma in International Community Development

Program Overview

The Graduate Diploma in International Community Development at Victoria University equips students with specialized knowledge and skills to address sociocultural issues in local and international communities. Through a hybrid learning model, students explore global development theories, the role of civil society, and advanced research methodologies. The program emphasizes practical application with fieldwork and study tours, preparing graduates for careers in international humanitarian work, development aid, and community development.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Graduate Diploma in International Community Development at Victoria University provides students with specialized knowledge and skills in community development at local or international levels. The unique and practical program offers personalized education, aiming to equip graduates with the expertise to address sociocultural issues in contemporary societies.

Objectives:

• Foster critical thinking skills to analyze global development theories and their impact on communities.
• Explore the role of civil society and grassroots movements in international community development.
• Critique global and regional political structures and their influence on community development.
• Develop proficiency in advanced research methodologies and project management in international community development contexts.

Outline:

Core Units:

• Research Methods: Principles and techniques of research methods in community development.
• Community Development: Theory and Practice: Theoretical foundations and practical applications of community development.
• Community Development: Project Planning and Management: Project design, planning, implementation, and evaluation in community development.
• Transnational Gender Issues and Human Rights: Gender equality, human rights, and their intersection with community development.
• Building Capacity and Mobilising Civil Society: Techniques for empowering communities and mobilizing resources.
• Conflict Resolution in Groups and Communities: Conflict management and resolution strategies in community settings.

Elective Units:

• Interpreting 'Asia' and the 'Pacific': Cultural and historical perspectives on the Asia-Pacific region.
• Engaging Communities for Sustainability: Community participation and empowerment in sustainability initiatives.
• Migration, Culture, and Identity: The impact of migration on communities and cultural identities.
• Management in Non-Government Organisations: Management principles and practices in non-governmental organizations.
• Regional and International Organisations and Policy: The role of international organizations and policy frameworks in community development.
• Study Tour: Practical experience in international community development through an immersive study tour.

Assessment:

Assessment methods may vary depending on the specific modules but generally include:

• Written assignments (essays, reports, case studies)
• Presentations
• Group projects
• Participation in discussions and workshops
• Fieldwork or experiential learning
• Examinations

Teaching:

The program is delivered through a hybrid mode, combining face-to-face classes and online learning platforms.

Faculty:

The program is taught by experienced academics and industry professionals with expertise in community development, international relations, and social policy.

Unique Approaches:

• Strong emphasis on practical application and real-world experience through fieldwork and study tours.
• Partnerships with educational, business, and community organizations, providing opportunities for research and international exposure.

Careers:

Graduates of the program may pursue careers in:

• International humanitarian work
• Development aid
• International and regional consulting in human rights, gender, poverty reduction, and project evaluation
• Project management in international, government, and local organizations
• Community development education and training
• Journalism
• Activism
• Academic research