COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Economic Development at The University of Southern Mississippi is a professionally focused graduate program designed to prepare students for careers in economic development, community growth, and public-private investment management within the United States. Applicants must meet the university’s graduate admission standards and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA during the last two years of undergraduate study. Admission materials include an updated résumé, a letter addressed to Dr. Chad Miller, three recommendation letters from individuals capable of evaluating the applicant’s readiness for graduate education, and a statement of purpose explaining the applicant’s interest in economic development and commitment to improving communities through business attraction, retention, and entrepreneurship development. International students whose first language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency through exams such as TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. In exceptional situations, conditional admission may be granted, requiring students to earn a 3.0 GPA during their first nine graduate credit hours to qualify for regular admission. Some students may also need prerequisite coursework in business or geography depending on their academic background. The 30-hour curriculum combines practical and analytical training through specialized courses such as Business Attraction and Retention, Economic Development Data Analytics and Theory, Entrepreneurship and Tech-Based Development, Real Estate and Land Use Planning, Community Data Analytics, and either a mentorship experience or thesis research. Students must additionally complete 12 elective credit hours and successfully pass a comprehensive examination to graduate. The program also includes a special fee of $110 per course hour, covering books, meals during in-person sessions, selected International Economic Development Council fees, and technology resources. Overall, the degree emphasizes applied learning, leadership development, strategic planning, and data-driven decision-making to prepare graduates for immediate contributions in economic development organizations, government agencies, nonprofit institutions, and business development sectors.