International Student Opportunities

International students typically make up 10% to 15% of each cohort.  Recent students have come from India, Nigeria, Romania, Nepal, China, Ghana, Cameroon, and the Czech Republic.  They have gone onto successful careers in US-based or international economic development.

The program teaches how to manage economic development so differs from other Development Economics programs. Those programs emphasis preparation for doctoral work, while this program does not have a heavy emphasis on mathematics or academic theory that is required for those wanting to continue with many doctoral studies.  The MSED focuses on how to do development. This program is designed for students wanting to have a career in development rather than seek a PhD.

This program requires a 300 hr internship (ED791) in an economic development organization at the end of coursework. We help students identify internship opportunities, but it is up to the student to secure a position. International Student and Scholar Services will assist students with the Curricular Practical Training paperwork because the experience in a mentoring environment is an integral part of his Economic Development curriculum. It is recommended that international students begin seeking internship opportunities as soon as possible.

Based on discussion with prior international students, the following preparation work is recommended before starting the program.

• Need to know the basic level geography of the US
• Understand how local and state governments function in the US
• Be familiar with demographics
• Understanding Google maps, navigation
• Be familiar with industrial classifications e.g., NAICS
• Develop a familiarity with Economic Development Organization (EDO's)

Some free blogs and newsletters include:

1. SSTI Weekly Digest 
2. Economic Development Futures Journal 
3. Economic Development Administration Update 
4. The Council for Community and Economic Research
5. Good Jobs First 
6. Area Development Editors 
7. Mississippi Development Authority 
8. Linkedin has several 
   1. Southern Miss Economic Development
   2. Economic Development Professionals
   3. Economic Development Network