International development studies at Tufts' Fletcher School: What you need to know

Many graduate-level international development programs have become more popular in recent years as the general public became more aware of humanitarian needs around the world. But at the Fletcher School at Tufts University, development has been a focus for three decades. “Fletcher was one of the first schools to teach development studies,” noted Steven Block, an associate professor of international economics at Fletcher. International development courses are offered as part of the school’s Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy degree. This degree is unique in that it allows students the flexibility to focus on a number of different areas within the larger graduate program. For instance, students, who at Fletcher range from 22 to 48 in age, can receive one of three development certificates: in economic analysis, trade and investment; political and social change; or sustainable development. Each requires students to take eight courses - three required and five specialized. Students who do not want to fulfill these requirements - and receive the certificate - can opt to study development as one of the two individual fields of study needed to complete their master’s degree. A number of these fields, including development and economic law, human security, humanitarian studies, and political economy, are directly related to development but require less of a commitment than the certificate program. Block said about 15 out of the 150 students in each Fletcher class pursue development certificates. He said this number has been consistent over the last decade, with certain development fields becoming more popular as issues flare up. “The thing that has become more popular over the last decade is the attention to complex emergencies and humanitarian relief,” he said. “It follows from current events.” After graduation, these students work for a number of different organizations. Many students find work outside of the United States. Approximately 40 percent of Fletcher students are from outside of the United States, and many return to their home countries. Cindy Dantas, associate director of career services, said 90 percent of students are employed within six months of graduation. Of students in the class of 2007, 37 percent went to work in the public sector, 21 percent began to work with nonprofits, and 34 percent entered the private sector. Six students went to work for consultancies, while 16 now work for financial service firms. Dantas attributed this success to a vigorous placement scheme that begins as soon as students enter Fletcher. This includes a mandatory career development program, a 10-week course to help students get ready for internships and job searches. The school also sponsors annual trips to New York and Washington, D.C., so students can meet with prospective employees and network. “Our mission,” Dantas said, “is to partner with students for career success.” Read more career advice articles.