Degree Requirements

The M.P.P degree requires the completion of 37 credit hours, including the writing of a policy analysis paper. M.P.P. students without relevant professional experience are required to participate in an internship. Students take five interdisciplinary core courses: PUBL 603: Theory and Practice of Policy Analysis; PUBL 600: Research Methodology; PUBL 604: Statistical Analysis; PUBL 613: Managing Public Organizations; and PUBL 623: Governmental Budgeting. One course in each of the foundation disciplines (economics, political science and sociology) is also required. Students complete their studies by taking four other courses in one of the department’s policy areas. A thesis is optional. If a thesis is written, it replaces three credits of required course work in the policy concentration and the policy analysis paper. The master’s program was reaccredited by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration in 2009.