Now Accepting Applications for Fall 2026
Applications must be received by January 31, 2026 for first consideration for admissions and available GA funding.
Apply Today
Applications must be received by January 31, 2026 for first consideration for admissions and available GA funding.
Apply TodayNMSU is the first university in the country to offer this program. The Doctor of Economic Development (DED) is a professional degree primarily intended to provide advanced applied training for economic development professionals (rather than academic economists), and can be seen as the link between academic research in economic development and real world economic development problems.
Economic development is a complex process. Its study and practice draws on a wide variety of academic knowledge and experience. DED graduates will be prepared to navigate the world between the theoretical and analytical world of academic economics and the very practical problems of economic development at all levels.
Recognizing the diversity of subjects and experience and knowledge useful to economic developers, DED students will enter the program from a variety of backgrounds. All DED students share a common core of training in economics and economic development followed by the opportunity to select elective courses and specialties reflecting their particular interests and goals. All graduates complete an internship and a major written research project.
NMSU's DED program was established in 2005, making it the first of its kind in the nation.
Learn moreAdmission is competitive and space in the program is limited. Qualified applicants who are not admitted may reapply. Note that meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. In some cases an interview with the DED Admissions Committee will be required.
The DED program includes both full-time students and part-time professionals working in the region. Course schedules and delivery methods vary depending on the mix of students in a given semester, but all courses have a significant face-to-face component where professors and students interact. This is not a distance education program.
This program is offered jointly by the College of Business Department of Economics, Applied Statistics and International Business (EASIB) and the Agricultural Economics and Agricultural Business Department (AEAB), College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES).
Our DED graduates have gone on to successful careers in government agencies, economic development organizations, academia, consulting, and the private sector across the United States and internationally.
MSC 3AD
PO Box 30001
Las Cruces, NM 88003