Bachelor of Community Development
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Program Overview
Humber’s Bachelor of Community Development degree program offers a unique blend of theory and practice-based experience. Students learn how to work effectively in communities, how to build capacity for change, lead projects and advocate for people who face barriers to living a full and productive life.
The first year of the program is comprised of a common platform of courses that includes psychology, sociology, human rights, interpersonal communication, counselling, and government and social policy. The second year of study immerses students in the field of community development including foundational courses which explore leadership and advocacy. The final two years of the program provide in-depth study of program development and evaluation, advanced issues in community development, social movements, participatory action research, and senior thesis work. Project work is linked to applied and academic fields.
Semester 1 |
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| COMM 1000: Academic Communications |
| POLS 1050: Government and Social Welfare |
| PSYC 1000: Introduction to Psychology |
| PSYC 1020: Interpersonal Communication |
| SOCI 1000: Principles of Sociology |
Semester 3 |
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| CDEV 2000: Community Foundations 1 |
| CDEV 2001: Transformational Leadership and Advocacy |
| CDEV 2002: Immigration and Settlement |
| RSMT 1500: Quantitative Research Methods |
| Select 1 from the following courses |
| DEGE : |
Semester 4 |
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| CDEV 1500: Introduction to Professional Practice |
| CDEV 2500: Community Foundations 2 |
| CDEV 2501: Legislation and Social Policy |
| RSMT 2500: Qualitative Research Methods |
| Select 2 from the following courses |
| DEGE : |
Semester 6 |
|---|
| CDEV 3500: Program Development and Evaluation |
| CDEV 3501: Organization Management and Finance |
| CDEV 3503: Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation |
| CDEV 3504: Indigenous Ways of Knowing and Organizing |
| Select 1 from the following courses |
| DEGE : |
Work Experience - SEM 6C |
|---|
| CDEV 3502: Field Experience - Bachelor of Community Development |
Semester 7 |
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| CDEV 4000: Social Movements |
| CDEV 4001: Contemporary Local Issues |
| CDEV 4002: Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship |
| CDEV 4005: Senior Level Thesis Seminar |
| Select 1 from the following courses |
| DEGE : |
Semester 8 |
|---|
| CDEV 4500: Patterns in Social and Urban Planning |
| CDEV 4501: International Community Development |
| CDEV 4502: Environmental Advocacy, Sustainability and Eco-Justice |
| CDEV 4505: Senior Level Thesis Project |
| Select 1 from the following courses |
| DEGE : |
Work-Integrated Learning
Students will engage in a 420-hour as part of the program. Students may work on an applied community development project with other students or may work directly with established community partners.
The field experiences may be in a social service, community, educational or non-profit organization where students will have an opportunity to work in the community development field. During this field experience, students may have a variety of responsibilities including assessment, research-based work, working directly with community groups and individuals, as well as supporting community workers, educators and/or social science professionals. Field experience opportunities are arranged with the help of a dedicated field advisor and are typically unpaid.
Community Development Showcase
After a year of collaboration, research and learning, we are proud to present the capstone thesis projects of our first Bachelor of Community Development graduating class. Our students have been challenged and persevered, learning new ways to work together and continue to build strong communities.
Recorded Information Sessions
Watch our recorded information sessions to learn more about the program and how it can boost your career.
Who is the Program for?
Learn more about the Bachelor of Community Development program and if it's right for you.
About the Courses
Program co-ordinator Christine McKenzie discusses the courses and learning outcomes.
Work-Integrated Learning
Learn more about the work-integrated opportunities available within the Bachelor of Community Development degree program.
Scholarship Opportunities
Learn more about the scholarship opportunities available within the Bachelor of Community Development degree program.
Life After Graduation
Find out about your options after graduating.
Alumni Testimonials
Avion Campbell
Following graduation, Avion accepted the position of Human Rights and Equity Advisor (HREA) at the Bluewater District School Board. Read More
Lisa Post
During Lisa's final year in the Bachelor of Community Development program she was elected Mayor in Orangeville. Read More
Joseph (Joey) Chase Bognar
The Bachelor of Community Development Program helped me to organize my career goals and supported me in choosing the area of study I am passionate about most, disability. Read More
Stephanie Chartrand
Humber's Community Development program gave me practical and theoretical tools for equity-driven change, while supporting me in exploring how my Métis identity shapes my work as a community advocate. Read MoreExpert Faculty
You’ll learn from professors who have real-world experience and are active in the industry. Our professors are committed to providing you with practical, hands-on training to help you achieve the career you want.
View CredentialsChristine McKenzie
PhD – OISE, University of Toronto
MA - York University
BA - University of Western Ontario
Linda Hill
MA - OISE, University of Toronto
Post Graduate Diploma, Gerontology, University of Toronto
BASc - University of Guelph
RSW - Registered Social Worker
Study Abroad
Opportunities are available for students to study a semester abroad and/or do field placement work abroad. Our international mobility officer assists students in setting up these options.
Your Career
There is a need for educated community development professionals in a variety of community and social service organizations. Graduates may find strong employment prospects within a variety of settings including non-profit organizations, government organizations, charities, as well as health and education sectors in roles such as:
- anti-poverty worker
- community development officer
- community investment manager
- community outreach worker
- community worker
- environmental justice worker
- Indigenous outreach worker
- participatory action researcher
- social entrepreneur
- volunteer co-ordinator
Related Programs
Need Advice?
Program Advising Appointments
Get help narrowing down your program options or book a one-on-one pre-enrolment advising appointment with one of our Recruitment Officers.
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Transfer & Pathway Advising
Speak to a Student Mobility Advisor learn more about getting Transfer Credit(s) for previous post-secondary experience, Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), and Pathways options.
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Contact Us
Admissions Questions
Domestic Applicants
General Inquiries 416-675-3111 or enquiry@humber.ca. If you have already applied, be sure to check your application status on myhumber.ca.
International Student Enquiries
Contact the International Centre for information about full-time programs (including the International Graduate School), how to apply and to follow up on your submitted application.
Community Development Student Testimonials
Watch the video to hear about three different journeys through the Community Development program as well as an overview from a Humber professor.
News Feed
Bachelor of Community Development Program Hosts Annual Environmental Fair
Program Highlights
Think globally, act locally! This was the theme of the Environmental Fair hosted on March 28th, 2025, by fourth-year students in the Bachelor of Community Development program.
FSCS Thesis Poster Presentations
Program Highlights
Every year during the final weeks of the Winter semester, many of our FSCS degree-level programs host thesis poster presentations and capstone projects.
No news at this time.
Ministry Consent
Humber College has been granted a consent by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities to offer this applied degree for a seven-year term starting Feb 5, 2024. Humber College shall ensure that all students admitted to the above-named program during the period of consent will have the opportunity to complete the program within a reasonable time frame.
Every attempt is made to ensure that information contained on this website is current and accurate. Humber Polytechnic reserves the right to correct any error or omission, modify or cancel any course, program, fee, timetable or campus location at any time without prior notice or liability to users or any other Person.