NMSU 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.
