"As a working professional, I deal with import/export logistics, international and domestic health codes, hazardous material regulations, and international clientele.  The ICP program, as a result of its international focus, offered me exposure to these areas, and many more. As a result, I felt more prepared and was more aware of international issues relevant to my professional life and able to pursue a career in the international arena with more knowledge and confidence"

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Program Description
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.

For more information about the Master's International program, visit the Peace Corps website. 

Curriculum

General Track  (12 credits)
Students may choose 12 credits of electives from either track above based on their professional interests

Thesis Track (12 credits)
Students may combine a specialized or general track with 6 credits of thesis coursework (ICP 692 and ICP 795)

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.

1. Valparaiso University Graduate Application;
2. 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;
3. College level coursework in either microeconomics or its equivalent;
4. Recommendations from two faculty at the student's undergraduate institution;
5. 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. Tuition for the 2011-2012 academic year is $560 per credit hour which is highly competitive for a private institution of recognized national quality. Full-time graduate students pay a $183 general fee each fall and spring semester. Part-time graduate students pay a $100 general fee each fall and spring semester. Financial aid is available through direct and indirect student loans for students taking 6 credits or more during fall and spring semesters. Students may transfer up to 6 credits of approved graduate coursework into the program.

For more information about the Master of Science in International Commerce and Policy program, interested students should request an information packet from the Graduate School through our website or by e-mailing Graduate.School@valpo.edu.

Click here to apply online!