Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Course

The Graduate Diploma in Regional and Community Development embodies an explicit commitment to people and place, to social justice, human rights and a sustainable environment. It will equip students with the skills to understand governance issues and undertake participatory planning in local, state, national and international public and private sector organisations. Its educational approaches and outcomes will contribute to increased participation in the formation of socially and ecologically sustainable communities and places through an understanding of the strategic importance to public and private sector organisations of community and place.

Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to:

• demonstrate a sound knowledge of contemporary issues and practice in regional and community development in a global context
• understand the principles and models of participatory planning in organisational and community contexts
• reflect on their community development practice in order to develop a participatory approach informed by social justice and ecological sustainability
• design an action research proposal for community engagement
• demonstrate capacity to work towards the involvement of diverse (and often subjugated/disadvantaged) sectors within the community.

Credit up to 24 points may be granted for equivalent study with the approval of the course coordinator.

This course comprises four 12-point units.

First year

• EDF6806 Sustainable community development
• APG4807 Participatory planning: Local, national and international perspectives

Second year

• two approved elective units

This course provides a pathway to course 3741 Master in Regional and Community Development.

Graduate Diploma in Regional and Community Development