Global Poverty & Practice

The Global Poverty & Practice (GPP) minor is an interdisciplinary program designed to introduce students to the frameworks, methods, and practical skills necessary to engage with global poverty and inequality in effective ways. The "Practice Experience" is a central component of the minor in which students intern or volunteer with organizations engaged in poverty action (e.g., non-governmental organizations, community organizations, government agencies, and other poverty or development programs). In conjunction with the coursework, this real-world experience, which can take place domestically or internationally, allows students to connect theories and practices of poverty action. Students from all disciplines are encouraged to undertake the minor.

Applying for the Minor

Students wishing to pursue the Global Poverty and Practice minor must submit a Minor Declaration of Intent Form online. There are no pre-requisites required to declare the minor.  The deadlines to declare are generally in early October and early March. For more information, please see the Global Poverty and Practice minor website.

Practice Experience

An individualized practice experience is the signature element of the minor, providing an opportunity for students to connect the theories and practices of poverty action. Students intern or volunteer with local or international NGOs, government agencies, health clinics, social enterprises, or other poverty or development programs.  Students study and work on critical issues such as environmental justice, community health, affordable housing, education, labor rights, and economic development. The minimum time expected for the practice experience is between 160 and 240 hours.  This can take place in the summer or during the academic year. Students in the minor have completed practice experiences in over 70 different countries.

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