Master in Public Policy

The Carsey School's Master's in Public Policy graduate program prepares policy leaders of tomorrow with the critical skills and experience sought across the full range of policymaking and advocacy employers. Youll learn from experts in their policy fields, connect with policy practitioners and leaders working inside and outside of Washington, D.C., and become intimately familiar with major public policy issues and debates. This is a degree for students who want to make change happen to build a better, more sustainable, future for their communities, state, country and planet.

Our Master in Public Policy (MPP) offers you the tools you need to make a difference and create change in the challenging environment of 21st-century policymaking. Youll learn how to develop transformative, sustainable approaches to societal problems through research and analysis, and how to strategically communicate those ideas to bring them to fruition. In addition to equipping you to serve in a variety of public policy jobs, our MPP program will provide you with the skills to address the pressing issues that matter to you locally, nationally and globally.

In our Master in Public Policy, youll create a personalized degree based on your interests and graduate with the skill sets that today's policy professionals need to succeed analytical expertise, strategic communication skills and the tools for advancing a policy agenda. Built into the unique MPP degree curriculum are experiential learning opportunities designed to deepen and broaden your education. These include meeting with key policymakers in Congress, the White House, government agencies, advocacy groups and more throughout your semesters on campus and during our Washington, D.C., colloquium. Build practical experience through a policy internship and capstone project, all while earning your MPP degree in just 14 months.

International applicants must hold a four-year baccalaureate degree or its equivalent as a precondition for applying to any of our graduate programs. In some cases, you may also need a master’s degree or its equivalent.

English Language Score:

Minimum score requirements are as follows: TOEFL (Computer-based): 213; TOEFL (Internet-based): 80; IELTS (International English Language Testing System): 6.5; TOEFL ITP (Institution Administered): On case-by-case basis; TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication): On case-by-case basis; Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: 59.

Applicants can apply to start in the fall, spring, or summer terms, by the following deadlines: Fall Term Start: August 15 (preferred July 1); Spring Term Start: December 15 (preferred December 1); Summer Term Start: April 15 (preferred April 1).