IR or MPP degree then private sector work?

[Imhotep]

My current career goals involve working in international development, but from the private sector rather than through NGOs or the government. Ideally, in the end I would be working with or setting up my own boutique private equity or consulting firm that focused on investing in socially-responsible enterprises in the developing world, particularly in post-conflict states.

The simple answer seems to be to get an MBA, but I have heard that MBAs are mostly a networking opportunity. IR or MPP degrees seem to offer me a better opportunity for me to get rigorous training in the political/legal realities relevant to international business. Most schools would also let me take a certain number of MBA courses in my IR/MPP degree.

This route seems more advantageous even than getting an MBA with a focus on doing business internationally. What do you think?

Also, I'd be interested in knowing any and all private sector fields that people go into from IR or MPP degrees.

Edited September 3, 2012 by Imhotep