GovLoop MPP Guide 2011
What is a Master of Public Policy Degree? The Master of Public Policy (MPP) is a professional, post-graduate degree that provides training in public policy analysis and program evaluation. The degree typically takes two years to complete if attending school full time or roughly three years part time. An MPP prepares students for careers in all levels and branches of government (federal, state, and local), at non-profit organizations, think tanks, international organizations, government contractors, or with government consulting firms. The MPP curriculum focuses on the systematic analysis of public policy and the decision processes associated with them.
How does the MPP compare with other professional graduate degrees (i.e., MBA, JD)? Compared to a law or business degree, MPP degree programs are particularly focused on preparing you for a career in the public sector. The degree is noteworthy for the following features: • A broad-based training in subjects like economics, policy analysis, management (including financial management), and professional communications • A low student/teacher ratio in most classes, allowing for considerable individual contact with the faculty • The flexibility to take courses from other schools and departments and pursue joint degree pro- grams with other professional schools
Can I combine my MPP degree with another graduate degree? The MPP program can be combined with multiple degrees. Usually, students must apply and be admitted to both programs separately. Schools structure their joint degree programs differently, so be sure to check the website to learn about the curriculum and admission requirements. Joint degree programs could be and are not limited to: • Master of Public Policy/Master of Business Administration (MPP/MBA) • Master of Public Policy/Master of Arts in Economics (MPP/MA)
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• Master of Public Policy/Juris Doctor (MPP/JD) • Master of Public Policy/ Master of Science in Foreign Service (MPP/MS) • Master of Public Policy/Master of Arts in Com- munications (MPP/MA) • Master of Public Policy/Ph.D. in Government (MPP/ Ph.D.) • Master of Public Policy/Ph.D. in Psychology (MPP/Ph.D.) Some schools also offer a combined bachelors/ masters program. These programs usually allow students to apply to the MPP in their junior year and start taking graduate courses in their senior year. Students will complete a bachelors and masters in about five years. Some schools that offer a combined BA/MPP include: • • • •
American University George Washington University University of Chicago University of Maryland
MPP vs. MPA: What’s the difference? The first thing you should know is that the terms MPP and MPA (Master of Public Administration) mean different things at different schools. Some schools only offer one public affairs degree and may use the term MPP or MPA interchangeably. In some instances, the MPA degree is intended for mid-career professionals (usually 10+ years of working experience). This is true at Harvard and the University of Michigan, among others. At other universities, including American and George Washington, the MPA is very similar to the MPP degree.