MA and PhD Programs in the School for Global Inclusion and Social Development

MA Program

The GISD MA program examines global, national, and local issues related to inclusion and social development. Students seek solutions to complex challenges in today’s rapidly changing society, such as health disparities, environmental justice, community development, participatory decision-making, and economic inequality, as well as discrimination based on gender, disability, sexual orientation, age, race, ethnicity, and economic status. 

Our graduates go on to serve as leaders in their communities, as well as in national and international non-governmental organizations; local, regional, and national governments; foundations; community organizations; and the for-profit sphere. In all these roles, they work to increase inclusion and social development regionally, nationally, and globally.

PhD Program

Our PhD program examines how to deepen inclusion and social development, from the local to the global level. For their doctoral degrees, our students conduct rigorous original research around the world and in the United States, adding to existing knowledge in meaningful ways so as to affect the lives of marginalized populations and make meaningful policy change. 

Complex issues require flexible and creative solutions. Our PhD program examines the interrelationships among health, wellness, social development, political participation, organizational behavior, and economic empowerment in the context of vulnerability. Our transdisciplinary approach allows students to think outside of traditional academic silos and engage in cutting-edge methodologies that produce original research outcomes.

Upon completion of their degrees, students work on policy, research, and education in universities; national and international nonprofits; civil society organizations; bilateral and multi-lateral institutions; local, regional, and national governments; and the for-profit sector. In all these roles, they increase inclusion and improve social development regionally, nationally, and globally.

Rehabilitation Counseling, MS

Rehabilitation counselors support people with barriers to employment to find fulfilling work that matches their interests and skills. Rehab counselors work with clients who have disabilities, criminal histories, and substance abuse histories. The goal is for each person to discover their strengths, overcome their challenges, and engage in their personal and professional community.

Students may choose to take our courses on campus or online.

We are proud to be ranked #1 in New England among rehabilitation counseling programs by U.S. News and World Report.