Master of Community Development Program

Help Build Detroit’s Future—One Community Champion at a Time!

Detroit Mercy’s Master of Community Development (MCD) program has a long tradition of shaping bold, visionary leaders who don’t just talk about change—they make it happen. From revitalizing neighborhoods to strengthening nonprofits to sparking citywide collaborations, MCD students and graduates are at the heart of Detroit’s most inspiring community victories.

This one-of-a-kind graduate program immerses students in real community development work. They learn by doing—partnering with neighborhood leaders, nonprofits, businesses, government organizations, and everyday Detroiters to create equitable, sustainable, and people-centered change. Guided by the HOPE model—Human, Organizational, Physical, and Economic—MCD students work to improve quality of life in every corner of the city.

MCD graduates go on to become founders, executive directors, CEOs, elected officials, advocates, and innovators who lead with purpose and passion. In other words: they’re the kind of changemakers Detroit needs—and your support helps make their journey possible.

When you give to the MCD program, you’re fueling the next generation of community-builders by helping to:

🌟 Support impactful research and capstone projects that directly uplift Detroit neighborhoods.
🎓 Provide scholarships so that talented and passionate students can pursue the program—regardless of financial circumstances.
🤝 Grow community partnerships through hands-on field experiences that make learning real, relevant, and rooted in justice.

Every gift, no matter the size, helps develop leaders who strengthen the fabric of Detroit and cities beyond.

Thank you for investing in Detroit’s future—and in the students who are already working to shape it!