Master of Public Policy and Administration: FAQs

The UMass Amherst School of Public Policy Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA) program is designed for students interested in gaining an in-depth understanding of policy analysis and administration. As a MPPA student, you will learn data analysis, policy methods, and administrative leadership skills to prepare for roles focused on policy and administration. Our graduates address complex policy and administration issues, pursuing careers in government, nonprofits, think tanks, socially-oriented businesses, and more. 

What can I do with an MPPA from UMass Amherst? 

The Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA) program provides professional knowledge, skills, and practical experience, preparing you to become a leader in policy-related fields. An MPPA prepares you for a number of possible roles, including policy analyst, government administrator, nonprofit director, budget analyst, policy management, public relations specialist, international development specialist, legislative air, and more. With specializations and dual degrees available, you have the option to pursue roles aligned to your interests.

What types of jobs can students expect after graduating? 

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

Recent MPPA graduates pursue a variety of career paths. In recent years, 38% have taken roles in government, 42% in nonprofit organizations, and 20% have entered the private sector, pursued other paths, or have pursued additional education. 

What should my academic background include? 

MPPA students come from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds. Although an accredited bachelor's degree is required, we welcome students from any undergraduate major. There is no minimum GPA requirement for acceptance into the program. 

If you are applying to the MPPA program and are worried about grades in courses that were particularly challenging for you, we advise that you offer an explanation in your statement of purpose detailing what challenges arose and your efforts to overcome them. 

How big will my classes be?

With an average enrollment of around 40 students in the MPPA 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 MPPA is a two-year, in-person program with a full-time summer internship to provide hands-on skills. 

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

Yes, you can. On average, 73% of students complete the degree in two years, 83% graduate within three years, and 96% graduate within four years. Faculty and staff will work with you to craft a plan that ensures your successful program completion. 

We understand that completing a graduate degree as a working professional can be difficult. While the MPPA program has an internship requirement, our advisors are committed to finding a way for you to satisfy the requirement that works with your schedule. 

Are dual degrees available with the MPA? 

Yes, dual degrees are available to those who want to focus their MPPA in a particular area. We currently offer dual degrees in:

• Business Administration
• Higher Education
• Public Health
• Regional Planning

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.