2011-2012 University Catalog 
  
2011-2012 University Catalog

International Commerce and Policy, MA


Banner Code: PP-MA-ICP

Phone: 703-993-2280

The International Commerce and Policy (ICP) Program is an interdisciplinary course of study to help students from around the world prepare for jobs in the new economy. Unlike traditional international affairs programs, the degree is focused on such international economic issues as global trade and investment. The MA in international commerce and policy differs from an MBA program by providing training in the political, social, and technological aspects of the global economy. In today’s world, it is critical for all participants in global markets to understand the multifaceted environment in which they work.

The core faculty is augmented by adjunct faculty members who bring a wealth of practical knowledge and experience, as well as strong academic qualifications to the program. Adjuncts are drawn from the U.S. Commerce and State Departments, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the International Trade Commission, among other government agencies, as well as from the private sector, the think tank community, and trade associations.

Courses are offered primarily in the late afternoon and evening to fit the schedules of busy professionals. In addition to classroom study, the program emphasizes experiential learning by supporting student internships, cooperative education, and research activities with private- and public-sector employers, and sponsoring a variety of study-abroad experiences.

Admission Requirements

Students from all academic backgrounds are welcome to apply; however, some knowledge of economics, preferably through at least two undergraduate economics courses, is encouraged. While many students may have prior educational and work-related training in business and economics, others see the ICP Program as a bridge from government, education, and other non business occupations to careers in the global economy.

Complete applications for fall and spring semesters are reviewed on a rolling basis, with late applications considered on a space-available basis. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, with a preferred GPA of 3.00 or higher on a 4.00 scale.

The following items must be included when applying:

  • Graduate application with fee (no fee waivers)
  • 750 - 1,000 word written statement of student’s goals and interest in the program
  • Current résumé
  • Two official transcripts of all university work completed. International students must also submit a translation of all international transcripts into English, if applicable.
  • Two letters of recommendation, with at least one from an individual who is qualified to attest to the candidate’s academic potential.
  • For international applicants, TOEFL scores with a minimum score of 575 on the paper-based exam; 230 on the computer based exam; or 88 with a minimum of 20 on each of the subsections on the Internet-based exam.  IELTS will be accepted in lieu of the TOEFL;  minimum of 6.5 required. Students may be required to take additional English language testing and/or may be referred to the Center for International Student Access for additional language preparation.
  • Certificate of Financial Responsibility (for students requesting an F-1 or J-1 visa).

Submission of GRE or GMAT scores is required only for students requesting merit-based funding consideration.

Students may be admitted for non degree study and apply a limited number of credits toward the master’s degree should they choose to apply to the degree program later, in accordance with university policy.

Academic Policies

Students admitted to an SPP program will be terminated from SPP upon receiving one grade of F and are no longer eligible to take courses in SPP. Per university regulation students are dismissed from the university after accumulating grades of F in two courses or 9 credits of unsatisfactory grades in graduate courses.

Degree Requirements


The ICP Program requires 42 credits of course work. All degree candidates must take 30 credits of work in the required courses, as described below. The remaining 12 credits consist of electives that may include internships, independent studies, and study abroad.  Students new to the program complete core courses first to prepare for higher-level course work.

Electives (12 credits)


Students have the option to declare a substantive area of emphasis and focus their electives accordingly.  The following areas are offered:

  • Global Development
  • Global Financial Policy
  • Global Governance
  • Global Business and Policy
  • Global Trade Policy

Total: 42 credits