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Frequently Asked Questions |
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Program Overview
The Graduate Program in Economic Development (GPED) is a professionally oriented Master’s program in economics preparing students for both domestic and international careers in economic development. The GPED is intended primarily for students seeking a terminal Master’s degree in economics with an interest in international development. The M.A degree in economics is conferred upon completion of all requirements.
How do I apply?
Go to: http://gped.vanderbilt.edu
Click on: “For Prospective Students” (at the top of the page)
Click on “Apply On-Line”
Click on “Begin Your On-Line Application Now”
You may then begin your application or edit an existing application.
When you have completed the form, please click on “officially submit.”
When is the application deadline?
The GPED has rolling admissions with no specific deadlines. It is best to apply a few months before your intended term of entry for early admission consideration and for any form of financial aid. Students are admitted in the Fall and Spring semesters.
What is the duration of the program?
The program is typically 21-24 months; however the program length is flexible based on each student’s course load. As a result, students may complete the program in 16 months or even a year in some cases.
How much does it cost?
Please see the link to the ISSS Financial Worksheet:
http://www.vanderbilt.edu/isss/documents/InternationalStudentFinancialStmt.pdf
Page 2 gives an accurate breakdown of what your expenses will be regardless of whether you are a US citizen or an International Student. Tuition (charged by the credit hour) will be the figure beside “Graduate School.” This figure assumes 18 hours for the first year (of a 30 hour program).
What are the application requirements?
Applicants are expected to submit an online application (there is no paper option), official GRE scores, TOEFL scores (for international students), three letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, official transcripts and diplomas from all universities attended and a resume.
What is an acceptable GRE score?
There is no fixed requirement for GRE scores. Students who apply to the GPED usually score between 650 and 800 on the Quantitative section.
What is an acceptable TOEFL score?
Paper Based: 570; Computer based: 230; Internet based: 88-89.
Minimum academic/professional requirements?
The program accepts students from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds. Applicants must have, at minimum, the equivalent of a U.S. Bachelor’s degree. There is no minimum requirement for work history. While we do not require a major in economics, applicants should have a B average in undergraduate coursework, a solid math background, and a basic understanding of macro and micro economics.
Class sizes
The GPED enrolls approximately 25-27 students each fall and 4-6 students in the spring.
Is housing provided? How much does it cost?
The University does not provide on-campus housing for graduate students. GPED students usually live within a one-mile range of campus. Rent is typically between $450 and $750, depending on whether you have a roommate or not. GPED students and staff assist incoming students in locating suitable housing.
Can I get Financial Aid?
There is very limited aid—in the form of a few partial tuition grants—for international students. U.S. students should check with the Office of Financial Aid. Information may be found on the Financial Aid web page: http://www.vanderbilt.edu/financialaid/finhome.htm
Areas of specialization
Please visit our web site for information: http://gped.vanderbilt.edu
What about internships?
The program does not guarantee placements for students interested in internships; however, resources will be provided to assist with this such as job workshops and career fairs.
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