Master of Economic Development and Innovation

Improve prosperity, one community at a time

Students in the Master of Economic Development and Innovation (MEDI) program have a passion for finding innovative solutions that facilitate prosperity, sustainability and inclusive growth in cities and communities in Canada and around the world.

We know economic development

Established in 1987, the MEDI at the University of Waterloo is one of the only graduate programs in Canada that focuses exclusively on economic development. As Canada's most innovative university for 25 years running, we know how to integrate innovation into our curriculum. MEDI also has strong ties to UWaterloo’s Economic Development Program, which delivers professional development courses to practitioners.

Practical, hands-on learning

In addition to learning economic development theory and practice, you will be exposed to leading edge knowledge, tools, and approaches to address contemporary economic development challenges in cities and communities across Canada and internationally. Guest speakers, field trips, conferences, and networking opportunities are key components of our curriculum. MEDI students also work with an outside organization to complete a final capstone project providing hands-on experience in the economic development profession.

Designed to fit your schedule

The MEDI program is offered both full or part-time. You can choose between completing within 1 year (3 terms), or scheduling the program to balance other commitments.

Become an Ec.D.

The Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC) is Canada’s national organization of economic developers, pursuing excellence in the field since 1968. The association offers its members professional development, networking opportunities and a comprehensive offering of resources.

The MEDI program can be your first step towards becoming an accredited economic development professional in Canada. Through EDAC, MEDI graduates are eligible to write their Ec.D. certification exam with just 1 year of relevant experience within the profession and EDAC membership in good standing. After successful completion of EDAC’s Ec.D. exam, individuals can add the Ec.D. designation to their title.

Our graduates work as:

• Economic Development Officer, City of Greater Sudbury
• Research Assistant, The Corporation of the Town of Caledon
• Programme Analyst, United Nations Development Programme
• Project Support, Financial Conduct Authority

Request a digital brochure

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