GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Arts in International Development Studies
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
7.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
The MA in International Development Studies at the Elliott School equips students to become the next generation of development practitioners. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of current development theories, challenges, and the practical aspects of formulating policies and implementing projects. Through interdisciplinary coursework in economics, research methods, policy analysis, and management, students gain the skills necessary for professional careers in international development.
Curriculum
The program requires 40 credits, including core courses, analytical coursework, specialization, and a capstone project. Students must also fulfill a language proficiency requirement. A thesis is optional for students pursuing research-oriented careers or further doctoral studies.
- Year 1
- International Development Studies CornerstoneIAFF 6121
- Development Policy and PracticeIAFF 6122
- Survey of Economic DevelopmentECON 6250
- Year 2
- Development Studies Pre-Capstone WorkshopIAFF 6137
- International Development Studies CapstoneIAFF 6139
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the MA in International Development Studies?
- You need an undergraduate degree with introductory Microeconomics and Macroeconomics coursework. A foreign language proficiency equivalent to four semesters of university study is also required. GRE and GMAT scores are not accepted.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- For Fall admission, an IELTS score of 7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0) or a TOEFL score of 100 (internet) is required if EAP courses are needed. For exemption or Spring admission, a higher score is needed.
- How long does the MA in International Development Studies programme take to complete?
- The program requires 40 credits and is typically completed over two years, including core courses, analytical coursework, specialization, and a capstone project.
- What are the tuition fees for this Master's program?
- Please refer to the university's graduate admissions website for current tuition rates, as they are not provided directly for this program.
- How do I apply for the MA in International Development Studies?
- You must complete the online application, submit academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and a CV/resume. International applicants may also need to submit English language test scores and certified translations of academic records.
- When are the application deadlines for the MA in International Development Studies?
- The deadline for Fall admission, including fellowship consideration, is January 7. The deadline for Spring admission is October 1. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis after these dates without fellowship consideration.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate degreeTranscripts required from all previously attended colleges and universities. If records are not in English, certified translations are necessary.
Foreign Language ProficiencyDemonstrated proficiency equivalent to four semesters of university coursework, formal language training, or growing up in a household where the language is spoken. This is a prerequisite for success in the program's language requirement.
Economics CourseworkCompletion of introductory Microeconomics and Macroeconomics from an accredited institution is required. Spring applicants must have fulfilled this prerequisite by the application deadline.
IELTS7.0 overall with no band score below 6.0 (eligible for admission & requires EAP courses) or 7.0 overall with no band score below 6.5 (eligible for admission & exempt from EAP courses, required for Spring applicants).
TOEFL100 (internet test) or 600 (paper test) (eligible for admission & requires EAP courses); 105 (internet test) or 650 (paper test) (eligible for admission & exempt from EAP courses, required for Spring applicants).
PTE68 (eligible for admission & requires EAP courses); 72 (eligible for admission & exempt from EAP courses, required for Spring applicants).
GRE and GMAT scores are not accepted. Applicants must submit a resumé or curriculum vitae and a statement of purpose (approximately 500 words). Two letters of recommendation are required: one academic from a professor and one professional reference.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the university's graduate admissions website for current tuition rates.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the university's graduate admissions website for current tuition rates.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided on the program or related pages.
Tuition remission benefits may be available for eligible GW employees and their dependents, with coverage varying based on service years and employee classification.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit the graduate application form through the GW Office of Graduate Admissions portal.
2. Submit Academic TranscriptsUpload unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Official transcripts will be required for admitted students. Provide certified English translations if academic records are not in English.
3. Write a Statement of PurposeSubmit an essay of approximately 500 words addressing your purpose for graduate study, academic and research interests, career objectives, and how GW will help you achieve them, or discuss an international issue and how GW will prepare you to address it.
4. Provide Letters of RecommendationArrange for two letters of recommendation: one academic from a professor and one professional reference.
5. Submit a Resumé or Curriculum VitaeYour CV/resumé should include dates of employment and degree conferral.
6. Submit English Language Test Scores (if applicable)International applicants may need to submit official IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores. Check the Elliott School's English Language Requirements for specific details and minimum scores.
Accreditation
The Elliott School of International Affairs is a globally recognized center for policy and practice.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the MA in International Development Studies?
+
You need an undergraduate degree with introductory Microeconomics and Macroeconomics coursework. A foreign language proficiency equivalent to four semesters of university study is also required. GRE and GMAT scores are not accepted.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
For Fall admission, an IELTS score of 7.0 overall (with no band below 6.0) or a TOEFL score of 100 (internet) is required if EAP courses are needed. For exemption or Spring admission, a higher score is needed.
How long does the MA in International Development Studies programme take to complete?
+
The program requires 40 credits and is typically completed over two years, including core courses, analytical coursework, specialization, and a capstone project.
What are the tuition fees for this Master's program?
+
Please refer to the university's graduate admissions website for current tuition rates, as they are not provided directly for this program.
How do I apply for the MA in International Development Studies?
+
You must complete the online application, submit academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and a CV/resume. International applicants may also need to submit English language test scores and certified translations of academic records.
When are the application deadlines for the MA in International Development Studies?
+
The deadline for Fall admission, including fellowship consideration, is January 7. The deadline for Spring admission is October 1. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis after these dates without fellowship consideration.