Thank you for your interest in the Master of International Development Policy program. By applying to the program, you are taking a step toward becoming a more effective international development professional and joining a network of experienced practitioners worldwide. Before you begin the application process, please take a moment to read more about the program’s admission process.
Admissions
Requirements
Admission to the MIDP program is competitive and based upon the applicant’s academic and professional credentials, essays, letters of recommendation, and English proficiency. Past applicants have held positions in U.S. and foreign government agencies, NGO’s, public international organizations, private corporations, the U.S. military, and the U.S. Peace Corps.
Click here to view the admissions requirements for the MIDP program
Application Process
Learn about the program, gather your materials, apply, and ask questions!
Click here to see more information about each part of the application process, from the application to transcripts.
Tuition and Fees
Paying for graduate school requires careful planning. Click here to see the most recent schedule of tuition, fees, and living expenses for the MIDP program
Scholarships
We know that graduate education is an investment. The MIDP program partners with a number of organizations to offer competitive funding to highly qualified applicants. We also offer a limited number of partial tuition scholarships. Click here to see more information about scholarships and other financial aid opportunities.
What We Look for in Prospective MIDP Fellows
- A strong academic background that demonstrates the capability to successfully undertake rigorous graduate-level studies. Duke University requires the completion of a four-year undergraduate degree or equivalent to be eligible to apply.
- A professional background which shows an increase in responsibilities over time. We strongly prefer that candidates have development-related experience. We recognize the interdisciplinary nature of international development. For two-year candidates, we require at least five years of experience. The accelerated 30 credit program requires at least five years of experience and at least one year of graduate-level coursework.
- Well-written essays which demonstrate a commitment to working in development and a deep awareness of development issues.
- Strong letters of recommendation from professional and/or academic references, which speak in detail about the applicant's potential and skills.
- For all applicants, strong written and oral English skills are essential to succeed in the MIDP program.
Additional Requirements for the Accelerated 30 Credit Degree Program
To be eligible for the accelerated 30 credit degree, applicants must have completed at least 5 years of professional experience and the equivalent of one-year of previous graduate level coursework in a relevant field.
The MIDP’s accelerated 30 credit degree is completed over 3 semesters:
1. Fall, Spring, and Summer or
2. Fall, Spring, and Fall with Summer off.
“My family and I have put a lot of thought and consideration into this decision. We are convinced that Duke, DCID and Durham are the best alternatives for us. I would like to sincerely and profoundly thank you for all your guidance in this process. For me it has been very helpful – every detail you have provided about the program as well as every conversation you have arranged for me. It has given me a strong sense of how the atmosphere at Duke and DCID must be, we feel very comfortable and welcome and this has been an important variable that we took into consideration when making our decision. I am really excited and looking forward to meeting you in a few months.” – 2018 Admitted Fellow
