"As a working professional, I deal with import/export logistics, international and domestic health codes, hazardous material regulations, and international clientele.  The ICP program, as a result of its international focus, offered me exposure to these areas, and many more. As a result, I felt more prepared and was more aware of international issues relevant to my professional life and able to pursue a career in the international arena with more knowledge and confidence"

Program Description
The Master of Science in International Commerce & Policy program provides training in the political, legal, cultural and social aspects of global commerce, business and economics.  The 37-credit program, distinct from the MBA degree, is designed for students wanting to develop proficiency and understanding in areas related to international relations, politics, business, law and policy.  The program, usually completed in 12-18 months if the student begins coursework in the fall, consists of a core of 28 credits, enhanced by 9 credits of core support and elective course work.  Students who are nonnative English speakers may add English for Business to their core requirements.  Up to 4 elective credits may be taken from language courses in the student’s nonnative tongue.

Especially for International Students
The program is responsive to the needs and interests of international students, and approximately half of the students enrolled in the ICP program are from abroad (current international students come from: Belize, Canada, China, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Ivory Coast, Japan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Sierra Leone, South Korea, Spain, Turkey, The United Arab Emirates). Attractive features include:

·         Exposure to key elements of international commerce, policy, administration, and law,

·         Business English component for non-native English-speaking students,

·         Wide range of course options that can be tailored to meet individual interests,

·         Access to the resource of the INTERLINK English language center.

Program Requirements
The required credits to complete the program are 31-37, depending on whether transfer credits are accepted.

Curriculum

Criteria for Admission
As part of the application process, students must provide:

·         Valparaiso University Graduate Application;

·         Official transcripts of all prior undergraduate and graduate coursework.  If you have received an undergraduate or graduate degree from Valparaiso University, you are not required to submit an official transcript from Valparaiso University;

·         Prior academic work must be of sufficient quality to warrant admission to a rigorous graduate program. Applicants should have college-level coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics or its equivalent;

·         Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of at least 550 (paper version), 230 (computer-based), or Internet Based Test (TOEFL iBT) score of at least 80; minimum IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score of 6; CET score of 6, or an INTERLINK Language Center Level 5, or the equivalent for non-native English speakers.  Applicants needing preliminary English language work are encouraged to consider the INTERLINK program;

·         2 letters of recommendation from faculty at student's home institution;

·         A reflective essay detailing your reasons for pursuing graduate study;

·         Application Fee: $30 for U.S. citizens, $50 for International Students.

NOTE: To maintain valid visa status, international students must enroll in at least 3 courses during fall and spring semesters, and 2 courses in summer sessions.

For more information about the Master of Science in International Commerce and Policy program, interested students should request an application packet from the Graduate School through our website or by e-mailing Graduate.School@valpo.edu.