eCampusAlberta program attracts students from around the world

If the idea of discussing your studies with classmates from all over the globe appeals to you, the International Community Development (ICD) Extension certificate program, offered by Mount Royal University (MRU) through eCampusAlberta, might be for you.

Katie Smith, Program Coordinator, Community and Health Studies with the Faculty of Continuing Education and Extension at MRU, says the program regularly attract students who are stationed overseas with ICD agencies.

“Our students are often working in a variety of different countries,” Smith says.

“They share their hands-on experience, which is not only valuable but of real interest to the other students,” she says.

The eCampusAlberta program is offered entirely online with no practicum or classroom requirements. It is designed to expose students to community development projects around the world.

“It gives students a comprehensive introduction to ICD,” Smith says. “Each subject area, ranging from ICD and children to key ICD organizations and issues, is touched upon, giving students a good overview.”

The 144-hour program consists of nine courses, two of which are prerequisites for the other seven. The program does not require any specific pre-qualifications or previous experience for admission. And, while the program doesn’t lead to a specific type of occupation, the credits are transferable to the MRU Social Work Diploma program.

Smith says students typically comprise a broad demographic: some fresh out of high school; some with graduate degrees who want more exposure to ICD; and those already working in the field who simply want to enhance their knowledge base.

“The student diversity leads to rich discussion and a good exchange of information,” Smith says.

The ICD program was launched in September 2007 and has 16 graduates to date.

“The first couple of years, the program really took off,” Smith says.

“Today we continue to draw steady interest, and at times are oversubscribed. We’ve received a lot of positive feedback – the students are happy with the program.”

Learn more about Mount Royal University's International Community Development diploma program.