Rolling admissions for Summer and Fall 2025 open on October 1.
Resources
Admissions resources for our Master of Public Policy and Administration and Master of Public Affairs graduate programs.
The Master of Public Affairs
The Master of Public Affairs is 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. Students applying to the 4+1 MPA should apply during their junior year in order to begin taking coursework in their senior year.
The Master of Public Policy and Administration
The Master of Public Policy and Administration is a two-year program that allows students to take more elective courses, at SPP or other UMass departments, and develop a specialization in a policy area of interest.
MPPA students can also opt to pursue a dual degree in business administration, public health, higher education, or regional planning, which allows students to earn two degrees in a shorter amount of time.
Virtual Information Sessions
Join us for an upcoming information session to learn more about our graduate programs. You will have the chance to learn more details about SPP, including coursework, specializations, internship opportunities and career outcomes. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to connect with current students and ask any questions you may have of our admissions staff to help you figure out what program is right for you.
Have questions about the Master of Public Affairs or Master of Public Policy? Click the button that says "Connect with an Admissions Advisor" and Tess Bartman, Graduate Admissions Counselor, will be able to answer any questions you may have.
Visit Us in Person
On your visit, you'll meet students and faculty, have the chance to attend classes, explore the UMass campus, and ask any questions you have about the program.
How to Apply
To apply for any School of Public Policy graduate program, please visit the UMass Amherst Graduate School's application portal. Be sure to select your intended graduate program and the start term that you intend to begin coursework.
Have other questions?
Visit our Admissions FAQs page or contact our admissions team at @email.