Grad School Programs: Law and Economics

For Returned Peace Corps Volunteers seeking to deepen their impact and advance their careers in fields critical to global development, graduate programs in law and economics, global trade and economics, international law, management, and international business and finance offer specialized education and opportunities. These programs provide an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the legal frameworks and economic principles that shape global trade, economic development, international law, management, and international business and finance. They equip RPCVs with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate complex international environments and contribute effectively to global economic development and policymaking.

Volunteers come with a wealth of practical experience gained from working in diverse and often challenging environments. Their service involves adapting to limited resources, collaborating with various communities, and implementing grassroots projects that aim to improve living standards. This hands-on experience is invaluable when pursuing graduate studies in law and economics, as these programs provide a structured environment to further develop their understanding of theoretical frameworks and best practices. For instance, courses in development economics, trade policy, and international law can help RPCVs contextualize their fieldwork and enhance their ability to design and implement effective development initiatives.

Graduate programs in law and economics offer a comprehensive curriculum that spans multiple disciplines. This approach ensures that RPCVs gain a holistic understanding of the interconnected nature of global development.

Global Trade

Graduate programs in global trade focus on the legal, economic, and logistical aspects of international commerce. These programs prepare students to understand and navigate the complexities of trade policies, regulations, and global supply chains. 

Degree Types:

• Master of Laws (LL.M.) in International Trade Law
• Master of Science (M.S.) in International Trade
• Master of Arts (M.A.) in Global Trade and Finance
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on International Trade

Core Subjects:

• International Trade Law: Legal frameworks governing international trade relations.
• Trade Policy and Regulation: Analysis of trade policies and their impact on global markets.
• Global Supply Chain Management: Strategies for managing international supply chains.
• International Economics: Economic principles and their application to global trade.

Careers:

• Trade Policy Advisor: Develops and analyzes trade policies for governments and organizations.
• International Trade Consultant: Advises businesses on trade regulations and strategies.
• Trade Compliance Officer: Ensures compliance with international trade laws and regulations.
• Global Supply Chain Manager: Oversees the international supply chain operations of companies.

Economic Development

Graduate programs in economic development aim to equip students with the skills and knowledge to address issues related to economic growth and poverty alleviation. 

Degree Types:

• Master of Arts (M.A.) in Economic Development
• Master of Science (M.S.) in Development Economics
• Master of Public Administration (MPA) with a focus on Economic Development
• Master of International Development Policy (MIDP)

Core Subjects:

• Development Economics: Economic theories and policies related to development.
• Policy Analysis and Design: Methods for designing and evaluating development policies.
• Sustainable Development: Principles and practices of sustainable economic growth.
• International Development Finance: Financial strategies for development projects.

Careers:

• Economic Development Specialist: Works on projects aimed at improving economic conditions in developing regions.
• Development Economist: Conducts research and provides analysis on economic development issues.
• International Development Consultant: Advises organizations on development strategies and projects.
• Policy Analyst: Analyzes and develops policies to promote economic growth and development.

International Law

Graduate programs in international law provide in-depth knowledge of the legal frameworks governing relations between states and international entities. These programs cover areas such as human rights law, international criminal law, and dispute resolution. 

Degree Types:

• Master of Laws (LL.M.) in International Law
• Master of International Law (MIL)
• Juris Doctor (J.D.) with a focus on International Law
• Master of Arts (M.A.) in International Legal Studies

Core Subjects:

• Public International Law: Legal principles governing relations between states.
• Human Rights Law: International laws protecting human rights.
• International Criminal Law: Laws related to international crimes such as genocide and war crimes.
• International Dispute Resolution: Methods for resolving international legal disputes.

Careers:

• International Lawyer: Represents clients in international legal matters.
• Human Rights Advocate: Works to protect and promote human rights globally.
• International Arbitrator: Resolves disputes between international parties.
• Legal Advisor for International Organizations: Provides legal counsel to international bodies.

Management

Graduate programs in management prepare students for leadership roles in various organizational settings. These programs emphasize strategic management, organizational behavior, and financial management.

Degree Types:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Management (MM)
• Master of Science (M.S.) in Management
• Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA)

Core Subjects:

• Strategic Management: Planning and directing business strategies.
• Organizational Behavior: Study of human behavior in organizational settings.
• Leadership and Change Management: Leading and managing organizational change.
• Financial Management: Managing the financial resources of an organization.

Careers:

• Management Consultant: Advises organizations on management practices and strategies.
• Business Manager: Oversees the operations of a business or department.
• Executive Director: Leads an organization or business unit.
• Project Manager: Manages projects from inception to completion.

International Business and Finance

Graduate programs in international business and finance focus on the strategies and financial practices needed to operate in the global market. These programs cover topics such as international financial management, global business strategy, and cross-cultural management.

Degree Types:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on International Business
• Master of Science (M.S.) in International Business
• Master of Finance (MFin) with a focus on International Finance
• Master of International Management (MIM)

Core Subjects:

• International Financial Management: Managing finances in a global context.
• Global Business Strategy: Developing strategies for international business operations.
• Cross-Cultural Management: Managing teams and businesses in different cultural environments.
• International Marketing: Marketing products and services in global markets.

Careers:

• International Business Manager: Manages international business operations.
• Global Financial Analyst: Analyzes global financial markets and investment opportunities. International Marketing Manager: Develops marketing strategies for international markets. Foreign Exchange Trader: Trades currencies in international financial markets.