The University of Massachusetts Amherst

Graduate Admissions

Accepting applications for summer and fall 2024 on October 1.

The priority deadline for funding is March 15. The final application deadline is April 15. Apply now.

Join us for an upcoming information session to learn more about our graduate programs. 

Our graduate programs are open to both full- and part-time students. The GRE is not required. We offer several graduate degree options so you can pick the program that best fits your interests and needs:

The Master of Public Affairs 
A one-year program of online and in-person classes that allows you to move quickly and affordably toward pursuing your professional goals with the skills you need. 

We offer two paths to the Master of Public Affairs: SPP's One-Year MPA is open to all applicants with a bachelor's degree and begins with summer classes in May. Our 4+1 MPA is open to outstanding current juniors at UMass Amherst or Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke, or Smith colleges, which allows you to begin earning credits toward your graduate degree while an undergrad.

The Master of Public Policy & Administration
A two-year program that allows students to take more elective courses, at SPP or other UMass departments, and develop an area of specialization. 

MPPA students can opt to pursue a dual degree in Business Administration, Public Health, Higher Education, or Regional Planning.

Admissions Timeline:
October 1: Admissions are open and applications are accepted.
December 1: Application deadline for the dual MPPA/Master of Education in Higher Education program
February 1: Application deadline for the dual MPPA/Master of Business Administration, MPPA/Master of Public Health, and MPPA/Master of Regional Planning programs
March 15, 2024: Priority application deadline for MPA and MPPA applicants to be considered for a Commonwealth Policy Fellowship

April 15, 2024: Final application deadline for MPA and MPPA applicants
May 21, 2024: Classes begin for the One-Year Master of Public Affairs program
September 3, 2024: Classes begin for the 4+1 Master of Public Affairs and the Master of Public Policy and Administration programs 

Request information about our programs.

For More Information

Contact our admissions team
sppadmissions@umass.edu