Clark University International Development, Community & Environment (IDCE)
Why you should consider this program
In IDCE, we strive for a more just and sustainable world. We embrace the complexity of urgent social, political, and ecological problems and seek to approach these challenges through multidisciplinary teaching and learning, collaborative scholarship, and innovation.
We offer master’s degrees in Community Development & Planning, Environmental Science & Policy, International Development, and Geographic Information Science. Our degree programs are organized around nine cross-cutting concentrations, for example ‘Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation’, ‘Refugees, Forced Migration and Belonging’ and ‘Gender and Development’.
The diversity of our degrees and concentrations is matched by a student body rich in experience and identity. Our classes are deliberately small to foster a tight-knit community. We tackle complex problems and build community across differences in knowledge and approach. Students develop critical analytical skills, explore linkages between local and global perspectives, and develop effective means to address the world’s most pressing challenges.
Ultimately, our goal is to graduate students who are effective in their efforts to address major challenges – the sort of people employers seek. Our graduates put their skills to work for private, nonprofit, and government organizations. Come join IDCE and be a part of our community making a difference around the world!
Benefits for Coverdell Fellows
| Tuition/fees for Complete Program | Value of Coverdell Fellowship | Net cost * | |
|---|---|---|---|
| In state | $ 60,885 | $ 30,275 | $ 30,610 |
| Out of state | $ 60,885 | $ 30,275 | $ 30,610 |
Where the cost savings value of the Coverdell Fellowship comes from
50% tuition waver + $100 application fee waiver.
Fellowships awarded per year (average)
12
Other benefits or opportunities
Fellows participate in professional development workshops offered by IDCE’s office of Career Development and External Relations. Fellows help organize events to raise awareness about Peace Corps across campus and social events with Worcester’s RPCV community. Many Fellows serve as Course Assistants and/or provide guest lectures for undergraduate courses based on their Peace Corps experience. Fellows can find opportunities to contribute to faculty research and practice in Barbados, Bolivia, Ethiopia, Jamaica, Greece, Mexico, Peru, Senegal, Sri Lanka, Trinidad & Tobago, and throughout the United States, including Puerto Rico
Annual cost of living (estimated)
$ 15,000
Application fee waived?
YesInternship
Coverdell Fellows are required to complete an internship (150 hours) supporting an underserved American community. Although Fellows are responsible for securing their internship, current Fellows and IDCE’s office of Career Development and External Relationships can help locate opportunities. Internships related to the Fellow’s field of study may receive academic credit toward degree requirements. The internship requirement can be fulfilled in one semester or throughout a Fellow’s time at Clark. Coverdell Fellows have had internships at USAID, the City of Worcester, and many local nonprofit organizations, e.g. African Community Education.
Jobs for program alumni
- Energy & Sustainability Specialist at ICF
- Program Assistant, Transatlantic Climate Policy Project, Global Energy Center at the Atlantic Council
- Senior Research, Learning and Analytics Specialist at World Vision
- Operations Permit Manager at Avangrid Renewables
- Management Associate at RTI International
- Refugee Case Manager at Forward Service Corporation
- Program Associate at Panagora Group
- Disaster Program Manager at the American Red Cross
- Community Health Case Manager at Neighborhood House
- Claims Representative at the US Railroad Retirement Board
- Geospatial Analyst at GEE Agriculture
- Associate at Palladium: Make It Possible, DC
Other details
Program length
16 - 21 months (3 or 4 semesters)
Application requirements
- Online application form
- Official undergraduate transcripts (unofficial are acceptable for application review)
- Resume or CV
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- Description of Service (if service is complete) or letter from Country Director (if currently serving)
- GRE scores (optional)
Admissions process
While filling out the online application, select "Yes" from the drop-down menu when asked, "Will you be receiving any outside (non-Clark) sources of assistance, including financial assistance from your employer". Under the "Please Specify" box, select "Coverdell Fellowship". This will qualify you for the application fee waiver. A description of service from the Peace Corps is required to validate participation and be eligible for the Coverdell Fellowship.
Program begins
Late August and mid-January
Year Coverdell Fellows partnership started
2010