The Master’s Degree in Planning and Project Management for Sustainable Development: a strategic commitment to rural development in the Dominican Republic was officially approved by the MESCyT (May 2025).

The University of the Caribbean (UNICARIBE) and Metauniversity https://principiosirametauniversidad.com/ proudly announce the official approval of the Master’s Degree in Planning and Project Management for Sustainable Development, a pioneering program in the Dominican Republic that responds to the challenges of rural development, sustainability and social transformation from an interdisciplinary and international perspective.

A program of international academic excellence
With a duration of 18 months (51 credits), this blended master’s degree is the first program launched by Metauniversity, an innovative network that integrates universities, companies and cooperatives from 12 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean.

More than 12 PhDs and 4 professors from the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), through its research group GESPLAN, with extensive international experience, are participating in this program, contributing their expertise in rural development project planning, sustainable management and collaboration with multilateral organizations. They are joined by doctors and national experts from FAO Dominican Republic and UNICARIBE, strengthening the local relevance of the program.

Commitment to Dominican rural development
The master’s degree is aimed at training leaders capable of planning and directing sustainable development projects, with a focus on the rural environment. Its objective is to generate a real impact on the improvement of living conditions in rural territories, through models such as the Working With People (WWP) approach and participatory management tools, territorial planning, technological innovation and sustainability evaluation.

In addition, applied learning spaces – the so-called “living laboratories” of the Metauniversity – will be developed in the field, in areas such as Mao and Santiago Rodríguez. These laboratories integrate real cases in collaboration with universities, companies, cooperatives and FAO.

Responsible investment as a transversal axis
The master’s degree is also a pioneer in integrating the Principles of Responsible Investment in Agriculture and Food Systems (IRA), implemented in numerous territories through the Metauniversity. This partnership promotes a people-centered approach and the construction of ethical principles for sustainable development, promoting responsible public and private investment in the territories. Thus, professionals and managers are trained to apply these principles in transformative projects.

Innovative educational model based on IPMA competencies and standards
The program is taught under UNICARIBE’s blended (b-learning) model, combining technological platforms such as Blackboard with face-to-face classes. It is structured in five modules that integrate technical training, applied research and scientific writing, culminating with the presentation of a master’s thesis with real impact.

This program is distinguished by adopting a competency-based learning model, aligned with the international standards of the International Project Management Association (IPMA). Students will develop globally recognized technical, personal and contextual skills, which will allow them to access international certification processes and lead projects with local impact and global projection.

The academic experience is based on a practical and interdisciplinary approach that combines theory and action, ranging from project formulation and evaluation to the sustainable management of territories, renewable energies, food security and citizen participation.

This program marks a milestone for the Dominican Republic, positioning UNICARIBE as a benchmark in the training of professionals and managers committed to sustainable development. Registration is now open for the first cohort.

Author:
Dr. Adolfo Cazorla- General Coordinator, MetaunIveRsidAd.