The Master of Development Engineering (MDevEng) at UC Berkeley—a field also known as humanitarian engineering and engineering for social impact—prepares students to tackle global and local development challenges using integrated, technology-driven, and community-centered approaches. This interdisciplinary program equips students with the skills to design, implement, and scale solutions that improve lives in low-resource settings across sectors such as energy, water, education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability.
Successful applicants are typically early- to mid-career professionals eager to apply technical expertise to real-world development contexts. Many are driven by a desire to return to “the field” and work as development engineers or humanitarian innovators, advancing solutions in partnership with the communities they serve.
We welcome applicants from a broad range of academic and professional backgrounds who share a commitment to inclusive, impact-driven innovation. Strong candidates generally have:
- A background in STEM fields (e.g., engineering, computer science, data science, physics, environmental science, mathematics)
- Or training in social sciences or natural resources with quantitative coursework
- Demonstrated interest or experience in technology, development, or systems-level problem-solving
Technical preparation is required. Applicants should have completed a two-course sequence in a technical area such as computer science, engineering, mathematics, physics, economics, or data science.
While post-baccalaureate professional experience is not mandatory, most successful applicants have 1–3 years of relevant work experience. Outstanding undergraduates with strong academic records and substantial internship or project-based experience will also be considered.
Applicants with any of the following are especially encouraged to apply:
- Experience in development, humanitarian work, or applied technology
- Background in entrepreneurship, nonprofit, community engagement, or government
- Leadership in social or environmental policy
- Commitment to justice, diversity, equity, inclusion, and community-driven change
- AI and Data Analytics for Social Impact
- Energy, Water, and the Environment
- Sustainable Design Innovations
- Healthcare Transformations
- Community-Based Ecosystem Stewardship
As a UC Berkeley graduate program, the MDevEng adheres to the rigorous academic standards of the Graduate Division. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or recognized equivalent from an accredited institution.
Candidates will be evaluated on:
- Undergraduate (and if applicable, graduate) coursework and GPA
- Quality and relevance of professional or research experience
- Strength and alignment of recommendation letters
- Fit between the applicant’s goals and the mission of the program
- GRE scores (optional but recommended)
- TOEFL/IELTS scores (if required)
Required application materials include:
- Transcripts and Degree Certificates
- Statement of Purpose
- Personal History Statement
- Three Letters of Recommendation
- Resume or CV
- Portfolio
- Writing Sample (Optional)
- TOEFL/IELTS scores (if required)
Selected applicants may be invited to a virtual interview to further assess fit, motivation, goals and merits.
For complete details and to start your application, visit the Development Engineering Apply Page on the Development Engineering website.
