Master of Science in International Commerce & Policy at Valparaiso University

The International Commerce & Policy program (ICP) provides training in the political, legal, cultural and social aspects of global commerce, business and economics. This 37-credit program, distinct from the MBA degree, is designed especially for international and U.S. students wanting to develop proficiency and understanding in areas related to international relations, politics, business, law and policy. The program, usually completed in 15-18 months if the student begins coursework in the fall, consists of a core of 25 credits. From there students may pursue one of several options, including a Commerce track, a Policy track, a non-specialized track, and/or a Thesis track. Students who are non-native English speakers may add English for Business to their core requirements. Up to 3 elective credits may be taken from language courses in the student’s non-native 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 and former international students come from: Belize, Brazil, Canada, China, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Ivory Coast, Japan, Nigeria, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Sierra Leone, South Korea, Spain, Thailand, 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.

Master's International - Partnership with the Peace Corps

Valparaiso University's Graduate School has partnered with the Peace Corps to offer a unique opportunity for students who would like to earn their International Commerce & Policy degrees while also participating in the Peace Corps. The Master's International program integrates master's-level coursework with service abroad. Students begin by applying to Valparaiso University's International Commerce & Policy program, then completing the Peace Corps application after acceptance to the Graduate School. Students then complete 20-30 credits of graduate work at Valparaiso University, followed by 27 months of service with the Peace Corps. After returning from their Peace Corps assignments, students will complete their final course work at Valparaiso University and receive their degrees. Final projects, theses, or papers will often develop out of the students' experiences with the Peace Corps.

Master's International students receive six academic credits for completing their assignments with the Peace Corps. They also receive monetary scholarships and preference for paid graduate assistantships.

Criteria for Admission

Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the Graduate School as well as demonstrate adequate preparation for successful study in the program.

• Valparaiso University Graduate Application;
• An undergraduate degree or equivalent from a college or university. If you have received an undergraduate or graduate degree from Valparaiso University, you are not required to submit an official transcript from Valparaiso University;
• College level coursework in microeconomics and preferably comparative politics (or its equivalent);
• Recommendations from two faculty at the student's undergraduate institution;
• TOEFL score of at least 550, 213 computer version, 80 iBT version, or completion of comparable level of INTERLINK language instruction.

Early Entry Option for VU Undergraduates

Qualified VU juniors and seniors may apply to begin graduate course work in International Commerce & Policy prior to graduation. This unique program allows students to save time and money on their graduate programs. For more information, students should speak with their academic advisors and contact an admissions counselor at the Graduate School.

Financial Considerations

Students may be surprised to discover the affordable tuition rate at Valparaiso University. Please visit the Student Financial Services website for current tuition rates. Financial aid may be available for students taking 6 credits or more during fall and spring semesters.

Are you interested in learning more?

Request more information from the Office of the Graduate School