Master of Public Policy and Administration - Social Policy

Social policy encompasses a wide variety of public policies aimed at ameliorating hunger, poverty, ill health, homelessness and other forms of human distress.

Students concentrating in social policy explore the dynamics of these problems, as well as public and private systems of social provision in the United States and abroad. Courses highlight historic and persisting dilemmas related to race, gender and inequality, structures of wealth and opportunity, the nature of civil and political rights, welfare state development, explanations of poverty and welfare use, and stigma and discrimination.

The social policy specialization prepares students for careers in government agencies, international organizations, consulting firms and research institutions.
The MPPA curriculum will provide you with a strong analytical foundation that can be applied to a wide variety of policy issues. You'll complete core courses in areas such as public management, economics in public policy, analysis, and statistical methods. Through electives, you can hone your degree to best suit your personal interests and professional goals. Choose from subjects like negotiations, makerspace leadership, social and environmental enterprises, public policy, racism, and patriarchy. Students also gain real-world experience through a required summer internship, senior capstone project, and a professional development seminar. Social policy encompasses a wide variety of public policies aimed at ameliorating hunger, poverty, ill health, homelessness and other forms of human distress. Students concentrating in social policy explore the dynamics of these problems, as well as public and private systems of social provision in the United States and abroad. Courses highlight historic and persisting dilemmas related to race, gender and inequality, structures of wealth and opportunity, the nature of civil and political rights, welfare state development, explanations of poverty and welfare use, and stigma and discrimination.

The Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA) admissions committee assesses each student's application based on academic record, letters of recommendation, work or volunteer experience, and demonstrated commitment to or passion for public service.

We prefer applicants to have at least two years of work experience in a job related to public policy or administration but do admit strong students who have just completed their undergraduate degrees if they have demonstrated a commitment to public service. For those students, greater weight is given to traditional academic criteria, such as undergraduate records, than for students with professional experience.
Application Requirements
Completed application form
Statement of purpose
Transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate work
Two letters of recommendation
International students should review Graduate School international applicant policies for any additional requirements
The GRE is not required for the MPPA program, although applicants can submit their scores if they choose.
IELTS - 6.5
TOEFL IBT - 80
Duolingo English Test: Minimum overall score of 115