Master of Public Affairs: FAQs

Master of Public Affairs: FAQs

The UMass Amherst School of Public Policy Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program is geared toward mid-career or pre-service students hoping to advance their careers and gain a foundation in the skills and knowledge of public policy and governance. 

As part of our program, you will engage with a comprehensive core curriculum and choose from a range of electives that fit your interests. These courses, taught by accomplished faculty and practitioners, will provide you with the essential leadership, communication, research, and analytical skills to become an effective and ethical leader. 

What can I do with an MPA from UMass Amherst? 

The Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program provides professional knowledge, skills, and practical experience, preparing you to become a leader in public policy and public affairs, including careers in government, non-profits, NGOs, and the private sector. Our graduates address complex policy and administrative issues in ways that uphold democratic principles and further social justice and sustainability. 

93% of School of Public Policy (SPP) graduates secure employment within six months of completing our program. According to U.S. News & World Report, SPP is in the top 20% of public affairs programs in the U.S. 

What types of jobs can students expect after graduating? 

Graduates of the MPA program have pursued careers in a number of fields, including: 

  • Researcher, state government
  • Executive director, social nonprofit
  • Research economist, national labor union
  • Consultant, executive management
  • Energy program analyst, U.S. federal government
  • Deputy chief of staff and research director, state senator
  • Strategic research analyst, education think tank 
  • Senior planner, regional planning commission
  • Finance and purchasing analyst, local government
  • Marketing and communications director

What should my academic background include? 

Although an accredited bachelor's degree is required for admission to the MPA program, we welcome students from any undergraduate major. There is no minimum GPA requirement for acceptance, nor do we require a GRE score. If you are applying to the program and are worried about grades in courses that were particularly challenging for you, please include an explanation in your statement of purpose detailing what the challenges were and your efforts to overcome them. 

How big will my classes be?

With an average enrollment of around 45 students in the MPA program, you will benefit from an engaged cohort of peers and a small (1:6 average) student-to-faculty ratio. 

What is needed for the application? Do I need to take the GRE?

The GRE is not required. However, you may submit your scores if you opted to take the test. 

Your application will include the following: 

  • A completed application form. 
  • A 2-3 page personal statement. This is your chance to explain why you belong in the program! Your statement should describe your background, experiences, interests, and other reasons for applying to the MPA program. Questions to answer in the statement should include: 
    • What led to your interest in public policy/affairs?
    • What work, internships, or other experiences have shaped your path? 
    • What are your plans post-graduation? 
    • What would you gain from the program?
    • What could you bring to our program? 
  • Your résumé.
  • Official transcripts from all colleges/universities you have attended, undergraduate and graduate (if applicable), where nine or more credits were taken. Transcripts are not required for your application to be reviewed by the Admissions Committee, but upon admittance, official transcripts must be submitted for degree verification. You can find more information on submitting official transcripts on the UMass Graduate School website. 
  • Two letters of recommendation.
  • If you are an international student, please review the UMass Graduate School international application policies for any additional requirements. 
  • The $85 application fee. 

What are the application deadlines? 

Rolling admissions for Summer and Fall 2025 open on October 1. The priority deadline for funding is March 15. The final application deadline is April 15. 

Late applications will be considered on the basis of program space. Please contact sppadmissions [at] umass [dot] edu (sppadmissions[at]umass[dot]edu) if you are considering applying after the April 15 deadline. 

How long is the program? 

The MPA is a 37-credit hour program that can be completed in one calendar year (May to May) if done full-time. On average, 71% of students complete the degree in one year. 

Can I complete the program as a part-time student?

Yes, you can. While the MPA is structured as a one-year program, we also welcome students who cannot attend classes on a full-time basis. Our faculty and staff will work with you to craft a plan that ensures your successful program completion. 

Are dual degrees available with the MPA? 

Our MPA program does not include dual degree options. 

If you currently work in a managerial or executive role and are interested in specializing your master's degree, you may be interested in our Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA). The MPPA offers dual degree options with Business Administration, Higher Education, Public Health, or Regional Planning. By contrast, the MPA program provides a broad range of skills for working in public policy. 

What are some examples of the department's specialties and recent research? 

No matter your academic focus or area of interest, the faculty at the UMass Amherst School of Public Policy are dedicated to supporting students both in the classroom and in the field. With expertise across a range of disciplines, policy areas, and methodologies, our faculty emphasize the importance of combining academic theory with practical experience. SPP encompasses five main research initiatives that define our mission and provide our students with specific points of interest:

  • Care, work, and family policy
  • Environmental policy
  • Governance
  • Science, technology, and society
  • Social inequality and justice

To learn more about each of these areas and recent faculty projects, please visit the School of Public Policy's research page.