The Master of Science in International Economics and Finance prepares both US and international students to work in profit, non-profit, non-governmental non-profits, and the government sectors as economic analysts. Upon completion of this degree, graduates will:

• Be knowledgeable about current economic issues and their microeconomic and macroeconomic impacts;
• Have a keen understanding of economic theory and how economic modeling drives policy alternatives;
• Be able to employ statistical analysis techniques to explore policy alternatives;
• Comprehend the nature and complexity of global economic transactions.

Economic analysts are employed to perform the following duties for employers:

• Establish or recommend to management economic strategies, objectives, and policies for the organization;
• Contribute to the decision making process and accomplishment of tactical plans of the institution by counseling and advising on financial and business matters;
• Perform economic and statistical analysis on proposed projects or for policy recommendation;
• Make recommendations regarding the improvement of operations and the financial position of the organization;
• Help forecast institution activity in areas of income, expenses, and earnings based on past, present, and expected operations;
• Help to prepare long and short-term strategic plans based on the institution's goals;
• Guide and direct management in the development of production, promotion, and the financial aspect of the organization's products.
• Manage current activities to match projected growth
• Establish operating policies consistent with upper management and board policies
• Evaluate operations on a systematic and regular basis
• Write clear and concise position papers on various projects or policy proposals.

Curriculum: 

Admission Requirements:

Completion of one semester of college level calculus, one statistics or quantitative methods class, two semesters of introductory economics - course content must include both introductory microeconomics and macroeconomics, and one introductory accounting course as well as an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0/4.0, two favorable letters of recommendation, official transcripts from all undergraduate institutions attended, two-page essay stating goals, and application form with $30 fee for US students.  International students must submit all materials listed with a $50 application fee plus TOEFL scores and declaration of financial support.

Financial Considerations:

Students may be surprised to discover the affordable tuition rate at Valparaiso University. Tuition for the 2009-2010 academic year is $480 per credit hour; highly competitive for a private institution of recognized national quality. Students enrolled in graduate courses pay a $95 general fee each semester. Financial aid is available through direct and indirect students loans for students taking 6 credits or more during fall and spring semesters. Because most course offerings are scheduled for the evening, many students hold part or full-time employment during their study.

For more information about the Master of Science in International Economics and Finance:
Interested students should request an application packet from the Office of Graduate Studies through our website or by e-mailing Graduate.Studies@valpo.edu.