International Development Policy

The Duke University Program in International Development Policy offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex challenges faced by developing countries worldwide. Grounded in the core disciplines of economics, political science, and public policy, the program aims to equip students with the analytical tools and practical skills necessary to design, evaluate, and implement effective development strategies. Students explore a wide array of topics including economic growth, poverty alleviation, public health, education, environmental sustainability, and governance. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and real-world applications, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Through a combination of coursework, research projects, and internships, students gain hands-on experience working with governments, non-governmental organizations, and international agencies. The program also encourages a global perspective, preparing graduates to work across diverse cultural and political contexts. With a faculty renowned for their expertise in development economics, policy analysis, and international affairs, students receive mentorship and engagement in cutting-edge research. The Duke program emphasizes multidisciplinary approaches, innovative policy solutions, and ethical considerations in development. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in international organizations, government agencies, think tanks, or further academic research, contributing significantly to positive social change worldwide. The program’s flexibility allows students to customize their learning experience through electives and special projects, fostering a tailored educational path aligned with their career goals. Overall, Duke’s International Development Policy program aims to develop principled, knowledgeable leaders committed to fostering sustainable and equitable development across the globe.

The MIDP program is set apart by its interdisciplinary, flexible curriculum, which allows fellows to self-design their course of study. All fellows are required to take the following core courses and can select additional courses from the MIDP program, the Sanford School of Public Policy, other professional schools and departments across Duke, and nearby universities. To help with the design of their curriculum, fellows have the option of selecting one of six areas of concentration. They are then paired with an academic advisor who assists with course selection each semester.

Core Courses

• Policy Analysis for Development examines the role of policy analysis in solving important international development problems and hones the analytical and communication skills needed to undertake effective policy analysis.
• Economic Foundations for Development provides an overview of microeconomic and macroeconomic principles related to development. The objective is to provide analytical tools for the study of economic policies and problems in developing countries.
• Applied Development Economics uses macroeconomic and microeconomic principles to analyze development challenges and issues. Emphasis is on how to use a range of techniques to analyze different development problems.
• Empirical Analysis for Development provides an introduction to basic concepts of quantitative and empirical analysis and enables participants to read and assess the quality of the empirical data and results that are used in reports. Basic applied tools are taught using statistical software.
• Economic Growth and Development examines the basic principles and policy issues in the study of economic growth and development. It considers the roles of various sectors in explaining patterns and causes of variations in countries' growth and development performance.

• A strong academic background that demonstrates the capability to successfully undertake graduate studies. Duke University requires the completion of a four-year undergraduate degree to be eligible to apply.
• A professional background of at least five years which shows an increase in responsibilities over time. Development-related experience is preferred. 
• Essays which demonstrate a commitment to working in development and a deep awareness of development issues. 
• Strong letters of recommendation from professional and/or academic references, which speak in detail about the applicant's potential and skills.
• For all applicants, strong written and oral English skills are absolutely essential to succeed in the MIDP program. 
• A minimum of 90 must be scored on the TOEFL internet-based test.
• A minimum overall band score of seven (7.0) must be scored on the IELTS.
• A minimum of 64 must be scored on the PTE.

In addition to taking the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE exam, Duke University requires all accepted applicants whose native language is not English to take both oral and written English assessments upon arrival at Duke. Based on the results of these assessments, fellows may be required to take one or two English language courses. English language course credits do not count toward the 30 credit requirement for the MIDP degree. They must be taken in addition to the regular course-load as part of the Duke University graduation requirements.

The International Development Policy master’s program at Duke University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for the program are in line with those of other specialized master's programs at Duke University, and financial assistance is available to eligible students. Prospective students can apply for various forms of financial aid, including fellowships, scholarships, assistantships, and loans. The Duke University Office of Financial Aid provides detailed information on eligibility criteria, application processes, and deadlines.

Fellowships and scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and commitment to development issues, and they do not require repayment. Assistantships may also be available, providing students with a stipend in exchange for teaching or research assistance, enabling them to gain valuable experience while offsetting educational costs. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore external funding sources such as government grants, private foundations, and international development organizations that support graduate studies in development policy.

Duke University also offers payment plan options that allow students to spread out tuition payments over the course of the academic year, making financing more manageable. International students should consult specific resources for possible additional funding opportunities or restrictions related to their visa status. It is recommended that applicants begin exploring funding options early, as some awards are highly competitive and have early application deadlines. The university's financial services team provides guidance on budgeting and managing educational expenses and can assist students in navigating the financial aid application process to ensure they can focus on their academic and professional development commitments.

The Duke University’s International Development Policy program is a comprehensive graduate-level offering designed to prepare students for impactful careers in global development. As part of Duke’s robust graduate school offerings, the program emphasizes the intersection of policy, economics, and social sciences to address international development challenges. It aims to equip students with the analytical tools and practical skills necessary to promote sustainable development, reduce poverty, and improve health and well-being in developing countries.

The curriculum typically includes core courses in development economics, policy analysis, and program evaluation, along with specialized electives that cover topics such as health policy, education, environmental sustainability, and governance. Students are encouraged to engage in interdisciplinary approaches, combining insights from economics, political science, public policy, and other relevant fields. The program often includes opportunities for experiential learning through internships, research projects, and collaborations with international organizations and NGOs.

Students enrolled in the program benefit from Duke’s extensive resources, including renowned faculty with expertise in global development issues, a diverse and international student body, and access to research centers and conferences focused on development policy. The program also emphasizes ethical considerations, cultural understanding, and the importance of local contexts in shaping effective development strategies.

Graduates of the program often pursue careers in international organizations, government agencies, non-profit sectors, and development consulting firms. They are equipped to design, analyze, and implement policies that aim to improve socioeconomic conditions in developing countries. The program’s strong academic foundation combined with practical experience makes it well-suited for those committed to making positive change on a global scale.