Private online graduate school empowering community leaders to drive sustainable, scalable change worldwide.
Future Generations University offers a single Master of Arts degree in Applied Community Development, requiring 32 credits completed through a combination of synchronous live-online courses, field-based immersion courses, personalized learning (independent study, research, internships), and prior learning assessment. The curriculum is designed for mid-career professionals and emphasizes participatory action research, community engagement, and real-world application. The university also offers professional certificates in Applied Community Development for those not yet pursuing a master's degree, and accepts students without a bachelor's degree through an alternative admissions track.
The university's headquarters occupy North Mountain in Franklin, West Virginia, featuring the Kathryn W. Davis Global Classroom and the Andrus Center for Global Outreach Building. However, the institution is fundamentally online and distributed—students complete coursework and action learning within their own communities worldwide. Field courses offer in-person immersion opportunities in locations such as Appalachia, Nepal, and Uganda. The global student body and alumni network spans 154 countries, creating a worldwide community of practice focused on sustainable community development.
Admission requires a resume, university transcripts, personal statement of commitment to community, reference letter, and reliable internet connection. The university offers need-blind admissions and need-based scholarships to qualifying individuals. Special scholarships include 25% for AmeriCorps members, 20% for Appalachian College Association graduates, and 50% for Reading Partners members. Students may also earn credit through prior learning assessment. An alternative track allows applicants without a bachelor's degree to qualify by earning a B or better in four courses.
Over 150 graduates work in community development, health, peacebuilding, conservation, education, and livelihoods across the globe. The university reports high post-graduation outcomes including promotions, salary increases, and graduates launching new ventures. Alumni engage in volunteerism and report increased confidence. The institution emphasizes research and action that directly benefit communities, with ongoing programs in the Himalaya and Appalachia regions focused on climate adaptation, agroforestry, youth education, and environmental conservation.