Development Economics (MDE)
An innovative program in applied and development economics.
Why choose this program?
Build advanced skills in applied and development economics in a program designed for students and early-career professionals pursuing work in government, NGOs, research, finance, or the private sector.
Dalhousie University’s Master of Development Economics covers both the application of economic theory and econometrics in specific settings and the economic aspects of the development process in low-income countries.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in government, educational and professional institutions, private corporations, or non-governmental organizations, this innovative program in applied and development economics is for you.
Careers
Graduates have gone on to become policymakers, researchers, teachers, consultants, and business owners.
Program options
Thesis: Pursue independent and original research guided by a supervisor to develop and defend your thesis.
Professional: This course-based master’s program will enable you to acquire specialized knowledge, enhance critical skills, and advance your career. Learn more about professional master's degrees at Dal.
Courses
You’ll build a strong foundation with core courses like Development Microeconomics (ECON 5000) and Applied Development Economics (ECON 5254). You’ll also choose between Economic Growth (ECON 5001) or Open Economy Macroeconomics (ECON 5253), along with graduate-level electives in economics.
With approval, you may take select electives outside the discipline to tailor your learning. If you haven’t completed an introductory econometrics course (such as ECON 3338 or equivalent), you’ll include it as part of your studies.
All graduate programs at Dalhousie are collaboratively delivered by a home Faculty and the Faculty of Graduate Studies.
Admission requirements
You'll need to meet the Faculty of Graduate Studies minimum requirements as well as any program-specific admission requirements before you can apply.
Apply by May 1 (with supporting documents due by June 1) to start in September.
If you’re seeking scholarships or departmental funding, apply by December 31 (supporting documents due by January 31).
An alternate timeline may be available: March 1 application deadline with documents due by April 1 for a September start.
Program-specific requirements
This program requires you to meet the following criteria:
You’ll need a four-year bachelor’s degree (BA, BSc, or BComm) with at least a B+ (upper second-class) averagebased on Dalhousie standards.
A strong background in economics beyond the introductory level (including intermediate theory), along with statistics and university-level mathematics, is required. If you’re missing some of this preparation, you may be asked to complete additional coursework or a qualifying year before starting the program.
If English isn’t your first language, you’ll need to meet Dalhousie’s English language proficiency requirements, typically through tests like TOEFL or IELTS. In some cases, a waiver may be granted if you meet specific eligibility criteria.
For more information about other English language proficiency tests, please visit the Faculty of Graduate Studies English language proficiency requirements.
Financial information
Questions about tuition and fees? Contact Student Accounts.
Email student.accounts@dal.ca or phone 902-494-3998.
