Involved is the application of economics, political science, public management, and sociology to planned change in a host of areas, including: agriculture, urban development, industry, public health, NGOs and development, education, and social programs. Students are trained as generalists to insure an awareness of the development process-as well as the economic, social, and political environments in which communities develop. They gain experience planning, analyzing, appraising, and implementing projects at the local, regional, national, and international levels. As they refine their skills, students are given an opportunity to concentrate on areas of special interest. The goal is to produce informed, action-oriented professionals who are capable of examining a situation and recommending effective approaches to development policy and management.