Admissions

Solve problems for the common good. Become a leader in public service. 

Learn more below about how to join the School of Public Policy's undergraduate, graduate, and non-degree programs.

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Students talking at SPP orientation

Why the UMass Amherst School of Public Policy?

Featuring top-ranked programs, the School of Public Policy at UMass Amherst is uniquely positioned to prepare you to become a leader in the nonprofit, public, or private sectors. We are dedicated to providing you with the skills and knowledge you need to solve problems for the common good. Whether you want to use data to untangle seemingly intractable issues, advocate and organize solutions to public problems, or become an innovator in the nonprofit or government sectors, our flexible undergraduate and graduate programs will help you develop the tool kit you need to take the next step in your career.

Ready to make change happen? Choose the UMass Amherst School of Public Policy.

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93%
Of graduates secure employment within six months
Top 20%
Of public affairs programs, according to U.S. News & World Report
1:6
Faculty/student ratio

Interested in one of the School of Public Policy's graduate programs but don't know where to start? Graduate Admissions Counselor, Tess Bartman, will be here to help you along the way.

Connect with an admissions counselor

students in classroom

Low Cost

At the UMass Amherst School of Public Policy, you will earn a degree from the highest-ranked public policy program at a public university in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and from the commonwealth’s flagship campus at an affordable price. A UMass education is significantly less expensive than the cost of our peer institutions in New England and beyond, and we strive to make our programs financially accessible to all students, whether in-state, out-of-state, or international.

Professor David Mednicoff speaking to students in a classroom

World-Class Faculty

No matter your academic focus or area of interest, the faculty at the School of Public Policy are dedicated to supporting students both in the classroom and in the field. Our curriculum and pedagogy emphasize the importance of student research and professional growth. With expertise across a range of disciplines, policy areas, and methodologies our faculty emphasize the importance of combining academic theory with practical experience. Our student-centered faculty and staff, along with our low faculty-to-student ratio, will provide students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience required to make their time at SPP a success.