I started working for the Ministry of Finance when I returned to Trinidad in October 2012, but took up a position at the Central Bank in April 2013. I have to say that in both instances what I was exposed to during the MIDE was critical. At the Central Bank, I've had to use theories from Prof. Dullien’s International Economics course as well as Prof. Joebge’s Central Banking and Financial Development courses. At the Ministry of Finance I had to develop arguments for the minister concerning his policy on deficit sustainability. This brought into focus some of the public choice arguments that were raised in the Musgrave text we used in one of the courses. The perspective when you're in the field is certainly different than when you're a student, so I can definitely say that the MIDE platform is a good one!

Stefan Edwards from Trinidad and Tobago

Unlock global opportunities with our Master's program in International and Development Economics (MIDE) at HTW Berlin! Over the course of 18 months, the Master's degree in International and Development Economics (MIDE) at HTW Berlin prepares students for the responsible and demanding work involved in the context of development.

Gain expertise in economic theory, policy analysis, and development strategies tailored for today's interconnected world. Our curriculum covers key topics such as trade, finance, sustainable development, and more.

The profound theoretical and methodological training provided equips MIDE graduates with a thorough understanding of the socio-economic methods and theories necessary to address urgent problems in developing countries. The wide range of optional courses allows students to shape their professional profile according to their preferences.

Join us and become a leader in shaping a brighter, more equitable future!

MIDE graduates are ideally equipped to work in development cooperations or international organisations. Featuring a wide variety of courses to choose from, ranging from "Environmental and Resource Economics" to "Project Planning and Evaluation", MIDE provides students with a well-rounded education. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical expertise, graduates are capable of analysing the current challenges of development and formulating actionable strategies for meeting them.

After being provided with a comprehensive understanding of the central debates and current issues concerning international and development economics, students address similar discussions in class:

Globalization and its Impact

• Pros and Cons of Globalization: What are the economic benefits and drawbacks of globalization for developed and developing countries?
• Income Inequality: How has globalization affected income inequality within and between countries?
• Trade Policies: How do different trade policies (free trade, protectionism) impact global and local economies?
• Global Value Chains: Analyze how developing countries participate in global value chains and the implications for economic development and industrial policy.

Trade Agreements and (Regional) Economic Integration

• Regional Trade Agreements: What are the economic effects of regional trade agreements like NAFTA, the EU, and ASEAN on member and non-member countries
• The Future of Multilateralism: How is the role of institutions like the WTO changing in the current global trade environment?
• Tariffs and Trade Wars: Evaluate the economic impact of recent trade wars, particularly between major economies like the U.S. and China.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

• Benefits and Risks of FDI: How does FDI affect the economic development of host countries? What are the potential risks?
• FDI and Technology Transfer: How effective is FDI in promoting technology transfer and innovation in developing economies?

Debt and Financial Crises

• Sovereign Debt Crises: What causes sovereign debt crises, and what are the potential solutions?
• The Role of International Financial Institutions: How effective are the IMF and World Bank in managing and resolving financial crises in developing countries?

Financial Markets and Capital Flows

• Financial Inclusion: Discuss the importance of financial services access in promoting economic development. 
• Capital Flight: Examine the causes and consequences of capital flight from developing countries.
• Cryptocurrencies: Explore the potential and risks of cryptocurrencies for financial inclusion and economic stability in developing countries.

Economic Development Strategies

• Aid Effectiveness: How effective is foreign aid in promoting economic development? What are the best practices and common pitfalls?
• Microfinance and Inclusive Growth: What role does microfinance play in promoting inclusive growth and reducing poverty?
• Sustainable Development: How can developing economies pursue sustainable development? What balance should be struck between economic growth and environmental protection?

Foreign Aid and Development Assistance

• Effectiveness of Foreign Aid: Discuss whether foreign aid promotes sustainable development or creates dependency.
• Conditionality and Aid Effectiveness*: Evaluate the impact of conditions attached to aid, such as structural adjustment programs by the IMF and World Bank.
• Alternative Approaches to Aid*: Consider the effectiveness of alternative approaches, such as direct cash transfers, microfinance, and public-private partnerships.

Environmental Economics and Development

• Climate Change and Economic Policy: How should developing countries address climate change while pursuing economic growth?
• Green Growth Strategies: What are the best practices for integrating environmental sustainability into economic development plans?
• Environmental Degradation: Examine the trade-offs between economic growth and environmental protection, particularly in resource-rich developing countries.

Institutional Development and Governance

• Role of Institutions: Analyze the importance of institutions, such as property rights and rule of law, in economic development.
• Corruption and Development: Discuss the impact of corruption on economic growth and strategies for improving governance.
• Decentralization: Evaluate the benefits and challenges of decentralizing political and economic power in developing countries.

Social Policies

• Social Safety Nets: Evaluate the effectiveness of various social protection programs, such as conditional cash transfers and unemployment benefits, in reducing poverty and inequality.