University of Denver, Josef Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs
Master of Arts in International Development
Denver, USA
MA
DURATION
2 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time, Part time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
16 Jan 2026
EARLIEST START DATE
Jan 2026
TUITION FEES
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Key Summary
Ranked 12th in the world for earning a master’s degree in international relations, Korbel offers a MA in International Development program where you'll build a holistic understanding of how economic, social, political, environmental, and historical factors determine the quality of life for less-advantaged countries and communities around the world. And you’ll acquire valuable practical skills in communication, financial analysis, project management, and program design.
Whether you aim to work in developing countries, international organizations, government agencies, or nonprofits, you'll gain the knowledge and tools needed to positively impact lives worldwide.
Build a lifelong network
Korbel brings together bright minds with big visions for the future. Connect, collaborate, and grow with a diverse community dedicated to the common good.
Engage with leaders shaping our world
Recent speakers include mayors and governors, former secretaries of state, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, prominent journalists, leaders in corporate social responsibility and impact investing, human rights activists, and feminist peace scholars.
Thrive in a dynamic student community
You’ll make friends for a lifetime with peers who bring an incredible range of experiences to the table. Join one of our many student-led groups to collaborate with people from around the world who share your passion for making a difference.
Be part of an active alumni network
Our 7,000+ alumni span the globe and are passionate about opening doors for Korbel graduates. You’ll find them in government roles at all levels, international organizations, NGOs, consulting firms, startups, and major corporations.
Merit Scholarship: Degree-seeking master's applicants who pursue full-time studies are automatically considered for competitive, merit-based aid during the review process.
Sié Fellowships are full-tuition awards given each fall to five outstanding applicants who have been admitted to a master's program at Korbel. The fellowships are highly competitive and are granted to applicants who have superior academic credentials and significant work experience in the field. Applicants to the fall term who apply before the priority application deadline are automatically considered for the fellowship.
Other opportunities: Research assistanships, work study opportunities, on-campus jobs, outside scholarships.
Prepare to go far
93% of Korbel graduates are employed, continuing their education, or volunteering/engaging in service within 12 months of graduation.
International Development graduates
are in demand
You’ll find them working in government, multilateral and bilateral development agencies, NGOs, and the private sector. They become development analysts, program coordinators, policy advisors, sustainability consultants, and community development specialists.
Where recent alumni make an impact
- USAID
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention
- Catholic Charities
- World Wildlife Fund
- Engineers Without Borders
- Banco de Nordeste (Brazil)
- OSCE (Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe)
- Toms Shoes
- US Department of State
“Korbel truly provides a unique perspective from other international affairs schools because of its location, students, and faculty. Especially if you plan to base your career in cities like Washington, spending your time in graduate school outside the DC can give you experiences and connections you just can't get on the East Coast.”
Aerie Pals
MA in International Development, 2012
Senior Advisor for Technology and Summits at U.S. Department of State
Get outside the classroom
Hands-on experience is essential to your success. You’ll find an abundance of opportunities to develop your professional skills and explore career paths.
Apply your knowledge with internships
Build experience across city, state, and national government agencies, international organizations, global NGOs, and the private sector. With guidance from our career coaches, you’ll land positions that align with your skills and interests.
Immerse yourself in simulation exercises
Join one of our simulations for a taste of on-the-ground realities in an interactive environment. From negotiating international conflicts to managing humanitarian crises, these engaging scenarios are a highlight for Korbel students.
Study away to expand your perspective
Korbel students have the opportunity to study in vibrant cities like Rio de Janeiro, Geneva, Vienna, and Washington, D.C. These experiences offer rich firsthand experience and insights, all at no additional tuition cost.
Dive into research that makes a difference
At Korbel, research directly contributes to real-world impact. Many students engage in applied research at our Pardee Institute for International Futures, serving clients like the US government, the United Nations, and the Africa Union.
Enjoy the Denver difference
Balance your graduate work with an active outdoor lifestyle in the Mile-High City. Take advantage of a vibrant art, music, and food scene — while enjoying Colorado’s 300 days of sunshine each year.
Top 3 “Best U.S. Destinations”
Travel Pulse, January 2022
#1 “Most Climate Resilient Cities”
Architectural Digest, July 2023
#1 “Hottest Music Venues in the Country” —
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Rolling Stone, April 2023
#7 “Top U.S. Cities for Active Lifestyles”
WalletHub, April 2024
“I am a first year international development student with a particular interest in gender based violence, social movements, and gender & development. A reason I felt that DU was the right fit for me is the amazing faculty here at Korbel, such as Professors Matfess and Berry. They have achieved so much and I am eager to learn from them!”