Program Overview

Introduction to the Global Economic Affairs Program

The Global Economic Affairs program is designed to provide students with a critical perspective on international trade, finance, and economic development policy. This program focuses on the interaction between economics and politics, enabling students to understand the causes of economic inequality, the impacts of trade policy, the drivers of economic development, and the operation of the global financial system.

Program Information

• Program length: 2 years, 60 credits
• Degree awarded: Master in Global Economic Affairs
• Course delivery: On campus
• Admission and merit aid priority deadline: January, followed by rolling admissions
• Term length: 10 week quarter

Curriculum

The program includes a multi-disciplinary curriculum that is accessible regardless of the student's economics background. Students gain a deep understanding of economic concepts and build valuable skills in both qualitative and quantitative analysis.

Core Courses

• INTS 4091 - Great Issues in International Affairs
• INTS 4310 - Foundations of International Trade
• INTS 4320 - International Monetary Relations
• One of the following:
  • INTS 4324 - International Political Economy
  • INTS 4370 - The Global Economy
  • INTS 4372 - Great Books in Political Economy

Skills Courses

• INTS 4057 - Statistics
• INTS 4303 - Econometrics for Decision Making
• A total of 4 more credits (in the form of one 4 credit or two 2-credit skills courses) of INTS or PPOL skills coursework.

Tailoring Your Degree

Students can use their remaining 32 credits to customize their specialization, pursue a certificate, or take courses abroad based on their interests and goals.

Certificates

• Global Environmental Change & Adaptation
• Global Health Affairs
• Global Justice
• Homeland Security
• Humanitarian Assistance
• Public Diplomacy
• Public Policy
• Religion & International Affairs
• Strategic Intelligence

Career Outcomes

Global Economic Affairs graduates are in demand and can be found working in state and national governments, central banks, finance ministries, international organizations, NGOs, think tanks, and the private sector. They become researchers, international policy analysts, economic policy consultants, risk and international project analysts, international project managers, and supply chain managers.

Faculty

The faculty are leading economists, political scientists, and sociologists who work on international trade, finance, and economic development. They have extensive real-world experience as practitioners and advisors to the United Nations, the World Bank, the World Trade Organization, national and state governments, and the private sector.

Notable Faculty Members

• George F. DeMartino
• Sachin Desai
• Rachel A. Epstein
• Ilene J. Grabel
• Haider A. Khan
• Martin Rhodes

Global Economic Affairs FAQs

What academic background is required for the Global Economic Affairs program?

The GEA program is designed for students with a strong interest in international economics and global markets. A background in economics, international studies, political science, or related fields is helpful but not required.

How quantitative is this program?

The program includes training in economic analysis, policy evaluation, and data interpretation. Students can tailor their experience to be more quantitative or more policy-oriented depending on their goals.

How is GEA different from a traditional economics degree or an MBA?

GEA is policy-focused and globally oriented. It offers rigorous economic training without the heavy mathematical modeling of a traditional economics degree and without the business administration focus of an MBA.

What careers do GEA graduates pursue?

Graduates work in economic policy analysis, global markets research, development finance, economic consulting, international organizations, and government agencies.

Is professional experience required?

No, this degree program is open to all backgrounds and experience levels, though relevant experience, particularly in economics, finance, public policy, or global affairs, strengthens an application.

Conclusion

The Global Economic Affairs program at the University of Denver's Josef Korbel School of International Studies offers a unique and comprehensive education in international economics and global affairs. With its interdisciplinary approach, flexible curriculum, and renowned faculty, this program prepares students for a wide range of careers in government, international organizations, NGOs, and the private sector.