Advanced Diploma in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL)

Ready to become a strategic leader who champions evidence-based decision-making and fosters a culture of learning and accountability across organizations? The Institute of Professional Studies and Development (IPSD) at PATHS University offers this Advanced Diploma in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL). This elite online program is designed for seasoned professionals seeking to master advanced MEAL methodologies, strategic program evaluation, and leadership skills crucial for driving impactful change in complex development, humanitarian, and public policy contexts, both at local  and globally.

Master advanced MEAL leadership with this comprehensive online program, typically completed within 12 to 18 months. This rigorous, yet flexible, advanced diploma requires an estimated commitment of 10-15 hours per week, allowing you to balance deep learning with demanding professional responsibilities.

This Advanced Diploma is specifically crafted for:

 Senior MEAL Managers, Advisors, and Directors aiming to lead large-scale MEAL systems.

 Program Directors and Country Directors who need to integrate strategic MEAL into their operations.

 Researchers and evaluators seeking to design and lead complex evaluations (e.g., impact evaluations).

 Development consultants specializing in MEAL system design and assessment.

 Government policy analysts involved in large-scale public sector program evaluation.

 Graduates of a Diploma in MEAL or equivalent, ready for a higher level of strategic and organizational impact.

 Visionary professionals committed to advancing the science and practice of MEAL to maximize social impact.

Requirements/Prerequisites

To ensure you can fully engage with the advanced content and contribute to the rich discussions, candidates should meet one of the following criteria:

 A Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field (e.g., Statistics, Public Health, Economics, Development Studies) with a minimum of 5 years of significant MEAL experience, including designing or leading evaluations.

 A Diploma in MEAL (or an equivalent qualification) with at least 3 years of post-diploma experience in a MEAL leadership or senior practitioner role.

 Proven advanced English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or equivalent for non-native speakers, unless primary education was in English).

 Demonstrated strong analytical, research, and critical thinking skills.

Upon successful completion of this Advanced Diploma, you will be able to:

 Design and manage comprehensive MEAL systems across entire organizations or large programs.

 Lead and implement complex evaluations, including impact evaluations and quasi-experimental designs.

 Apply advanced statistical and qualitative analysis techniques to derive deep insights from data.

 Develop and manage robust accountability frameworks and participatory MEAL approaches.

 Champion organizational learning processes and knowledge management strategies.

 Advise on ethical considerations and data protection in MEAL.

 Present complex MEAL findings to high-level stakeholders, influencing policy and strategy.

 Build and mentor MEAL teams, fostering a culture of evidence-based practice.

This advanced program features in-depth modules and real-world application, including:

 Strategic MEAL System Design and Implementation: From theory of change to organizational integration.

 Advanced Evaluation Methodologies: Impact evaluation, realist evaluation, and mixed methods.

 Data Analytics for MEAL: Advanced statistical software, qualitative data analysis.

 Accountability to Affected Populations (AAP) and Participatory MEAL: Empowering communities.

 Organizational Learning and Adaptive Management: Fostering continuous improvement.

 MEAL Ethics, Data Security, and Safeguarding: Ensuring responsible practice.

 Communicating for Influence: Translating evidence into policy and action.

 Leading MEAL Teams and Capacity Building: Developing MEAL expertise.

 Utilizing Technology in MEAL: Mobile data collection, dashboards, and GIS mapping.

Engage with advanced case studies, participate in simulated evaluation designs, conduct data analysis exercises, and benefit from expert-led webinars and personalized feedback on your strategic MEAL frameworks.

This Advanced Diploma prepares you for senior leadership and influential roles, enabling you to drive significant impact globally:

 Head of MEAL / MEAL Director

 Senior Evaluation Specialist / Consultant

 Program Director (with strong MEAL emphasis)

 Research & Learning Manager

 Director of Evidence and Impact

 Policy Advisor (Evidence-based Policy)

 Organizational Development Specialist (focus on learning systems)

 Chief Technical Advisor (MEAL)

Are you ready to lead the future of evidence-driven development?