Program Overview
The MPP program prepares students interested in public services for a variety of careers in the public, nonprofit, and private sector. You'll learn how to analyze, research, communicate about, and develop effective policies all while using data for informed decision making and good governance. Our mix of online and in-person classes will allow you to move quickly toward pursuing your professional goals with the skills you need to fuel your success. Internships and client projects will provide you with invaluable real-world experience.
With on-campus, fully online, and 4+1 modalities, our MPP is one of the most flexible and affordable public policy degrees in the region. Our goal is to make the program financially accessible to all students, whether in-state, out-of-state, or international. While the Master of Public Policy is structured as a one-year program, we also welcome part-time students. SPP faculty and staff work with students to craft a plan that is feasible for each student and to ensure successful program completion.
Learn more below about what MPP modality works best for you:
On-Campus MPP
The on-campus MPP is ideal for students seeking a hands-on classroom experience where they can engage in-person with faculty and peers all while accessing the many available resources on the UMass Amherst campus.
Read more below about the on-campus MPP.
4+1 MPP
Current UMass Amherst and 5 College (Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, and Smith College) students can apply to the 4+1 MPP in their junior year and begin taking graduate courses in their senior year that count towards both their undergraduate and graduate degrees. Students save time, money, and get a competitive edge by getting ahead on your career.
Online MPP
Looking to gain the analytical skills and theoretical training for your career in public service but cannot relocate to the Amherst campus? Our online MPP provides the same rigorous curriculum and opportunities for engagement as our on-campus program, all on a flexible schedule that fits your professional and personal life.
Safe Place for Youth
"Public policy is a tool to help us understand our society. Don’t just take what you learn at face value—let it teach you how to combat racism, sexism, xenophobia, and transphobia and advocate for those around you."
MPP Curriculum and Advising
The Master of Public Policy (MPP) at the UMass Amherst School of Public Policy is a 1-year, 37-credit program that includes seven core courses (including our policy seminar), a summer internship, and five electives, three of which must be SPP program electives. Our curriculum prepares students with the analytical tools and methodological frameworks needed for a variety of public service careers.
Our MPP program is open to any applicant who has completed a bachelor's degree in any field. Our 4+1 MPP program is open to undergraduates at UMass Amherst and the other Five Colleges (Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke, and Smith colleges).
View the on-campus Master of Public Policy Course Timeline and on-campus Master of Public Policy Requirements.
MPP students work with our professional academic advisors to plan their academic plan to fit their schedule, interests, and needs. Our advisors are here to support your success during your time at SPP.
Application and Admissions
The on-campus and 4+1 MPP program begins in the summer semester of each academic year. The deadline for priority admissions is March 15 and the deadline for regular admission is April 15.
The online MPP for the spring, summer, and fall semesters each year. For spring admissions, the application deadline is November 30. For summer and fall admissions, the application deadline is April 15.
Tuition and Financing Your Education
A the UMass Amherst School of Public Policy, you'll receive a world-class degree at an affordable rate, all while graduating with the skills and capacities needed to immediately enter the workforce.
MPP Mission Statement
The Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree is for students seeking public service through careers in government, non-profit organizations, businesses, and social movements. The program is suitable for mid-career or pre-service students seeking to advance their careers and obtain a grounding in the skills and knowledge of public policy and governance. Students follow a comprehensive core curriculum and choose from a range of electives taught by accomplished faculty and practitioners. These courses provide students with the essential leadership, communication, research, and analytical skills to become effective and ethical leaders. Our graduates will address complex policy and administrative issues in ways that uphold democratic principles and further social justice and sustainability.
With an average enrollment of around 45 students in the MPP program, students benefit from an engaged cohort of peers and a small student-to-faculty ratio. On average, 71 percent of students complete the degree in one year, 86 percent graduate within two years, and 94 percent graduate within four years.
Contact Us
Have admissions questions about the MPP? Fill out the following form or email us directly at @email.