M.A. in Early Christian Studies
The M.A. in Early Christian Studies at The Catholic University of America is an interdi...
M.A. in Integral Economic Development Policy
Washington, D.C
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in Integral Economic Development Policy (IEDP) at The Catholic University of America is a distinct graduate program offered by the Department of Economics. It is designed to train professionals to analyze, design, implement, and evaluate economic development policies from a holistic perspective, grounded in the principles of Integral Human Development and Catholic Social Teaching. The program places a strong emphasis on quantitative techniques and rigorous evidence-based analysis to address complex development challenges faced by both public and private organizations globally. It is particularly suited for individuals seeking to advance their careers in economic development policy or those from other fields who require technical training in this area.
STEM Designated: Yes, the M.A. in Integral Economic Development Policy (IEDP) program at The Catholic University of America is officially STEM-designated. This is a significant advantage for international students, as it allows them to apply for an extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States, providing additional work authorization after graduation. The STEM designation reflects the program's strong quantitative and analytical focus, utilizing econometrics and other quantitative economic methods.
Curriculum: The IEDP program typically requires 42 to 55 credits and can be completed in two calendar years of full-time study, with a part-time option also available. The curriculum integrates advanced economic theory with applied quantitative skills and a deep understanding of policy implementation. Core courses may include Development Economics, Applied Econometrics, Public Financial Management, and Public Policy Analysis. The program is designed to provide technical skills in areas such as accounting, econometrics, management, finance, qualitative and quantitative market research, and project development. Students explore the interplay between various development areas, including politics, global health, food and nutrition, energy and environment, education, and community development. The curriculum is structured to allow students to complete required internships or maintain employment while enrolled.
Research Focus: The research focus of the IEDP program is centered on developing and implementing an integrated and dynamic framework of economic analysis to motivate more effective development interventions and policies. It emphasizes a "revolutionary methodology" for assessing the impact and effectiveness of development initiatives, moving beyond traditional, reductionist frameworks. Faculty research concentrates on real human needs for which rigorous, policy-relevant research is urgently needed across fields like agriculture, health, infrastructure, environment, energy, education, technology, and institutional strengthening. Students are encouraged to engage in research with faculty, applying the Integral Economic Development theory and methodology to design and evaluate policies. The program aims to train individuals who can contribute to the advancement of economic science, policies, and development through rigorous empirical analysis.
Industry Engagement: The IEDP program benefits significantly from its advantageous location in Washington, D.C., which serves as a global hub for economic development. This provides students with unparalleled opportunities for industry engagement with entities such as the World Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the Organization of American States (OAS), federal government agencies (like USAID), private corporations, and numerous non-profit organizations. The program aims to prepare graduates for direct professional roles in these institutions, equipping them with the technical skills required to advance in their careers in economic development policy. Through seminars and interactions with high-profile individuals in the field, students gain firsthand experience and networking opportunities, bridging the gap between academia and practical policy implementation.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in Integral Economic Development Policy program has a deeply embedded global perspective, reflecting the universal nature of economic development challenges and the program's foundational principles. The program emphasizes the study of economic issues from the perspective of the "whole human person and the whole human community," inherently promoting a global outlook. Its curriculum explicitly covers international development, global health, and environment/climate change. The program explores how to design, implement, and evaluate policies to tackle societal challenges on an international scale, focusing on sustainable results and ethical understanding. By examining the role of institutions and macroeconomic environments, the program prepares graduates to contribute to economic and social advancement in diverse global contexts.
Location
Washington, D.C
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 34375
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
The Catholic University of America (CUA) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities to support international students in their pursuit of higher education. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need, making CUA an attractive destination for talented students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: CUA provides merit scholarships to international students based on their academic achievements and overall profile. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable each year, provided students maintain satisfactory academic performance. Scholarships are awarded automatically during the admission process or through a separate application depending on the program.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While need-based financial aid for international students is limited due to federal regulations, CUA offers institutional grants and assistance based on demonstrated financial need. International students are encouraged to provide comprehensive financial documentation to be considered for these awards.
Program-Specific Scholarships: Certain departments and colleges within CUA offer specialized scholarships for international students pursuing specific fields such as theology, law, engineering, or music. These awards often recognize outstanding talent or the discipline and may include research stipends or assistantships.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: Graduate international students have access to assistantships and fellowships that provide tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for teaching, research, or administrative support. These opportunities not only help finance education but also provide valuable professional experience.
External Scholarships and Resources: CUA encourages international students to seek scholarships from external organizations, foundations, and government programs in their home countries. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance on identifying and applying for such opportunities.
Graduates of The Catholic University of America's M.A. in Integral Economic Development Policy (IEDP) program are highly skilled professionals with a strong foundation in economic analysis, policy design, and ethical leadership. Their unique blend of quantitative methods, policy understanding, and an integral human development perspective makes them well-suited for diverse roles in international and domestic development.
Development Economist/Analyst: Working for international organizations (e.g., World Bank, IMF, UN agencies), government aid agencies (e.g., USAID), or research institutions to analyze economic trends, conduct impact evaluations, and advise on development strategies.
Policy Advisor/Consultant: Providing expert advice on economic development policies to governments, non-profits, or private sector clients, focusing on areas like poverty reduction, sustainable growth, or sectoral development (e.g., agriculture, health, energy).
Program Officer/Manager (International Development): Overseeing the design, implementation, and evaluation of development programs for international NGOs, foundations, or bilateral aid organizations, often in specific regions or thematic areas.
Public Sector Financial Manager: Working within government ministries (e.g., finance, planning) or public enterprises in developing countries, managing budgets, financial planning, and resource allocation for development projects.
Research Associate (Development Studies): Conducting quantitative and qualitative research for academic institutions, think tanks, or specialized research centers focused on economic development, policy effectiveness, and social impact.
Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist: Designing and implementing M&E frameworks for development projects, collecting and analyzing data to assess program performance and inform future policy decisions for various development actors.
Data Scientist/Analyst (Development Focus): Applying advanced data analytics and econometric techniques to large datasets to identify patterns, evaluate policy impacts, and predict development outcomes for governments, NGOs, or research firms.
Grant Writer/Resource Mobilization Specialist: Securing funding for development initiatives by preparing compelling grant proposals and cultivating relationships with donors and funding agencies for non-profit organizations or international bodies.
Advocacy and Communications Specialist: Working for advocacy groups or international organizations to raise awareness about critical development issues, influence public opinion, and advocate for policy changes through research-backed communications.
Lecturer/Instructor (Economics/Development): Teaching economic development, public policy, or related subjects at the university or college level, often after gaining professional experience or pursuing further doctoral studies.
