The UMass Amherst School of Public Policy is a hub for policy-related research and teaching across campus. Our curriculum balances academic theory with professional skills development and practical experience, preparing students to solve problems for the common good and become leaders in the nonprofit, public, and private sectors. 

We offer a two-year Master of Public Policy & Administration and a one-year Master of Public Policy, including a 4+1 Accelerated MPP for students at UMass Amherst and the other Five Colleges. We also offer an Undergraduate Certificate in Public Policy. 

We strive to make our graduate programs financially accessible to all students. We offer grants of up to $25,000, including Commonwealth Policy Fellowships, which recognize academic excellence and leadership potential. Our Master of Public Policy program, which combines online and in-person classes, is one of the most affordable public policy degree programs in the region.  

The School of Public Policy received the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration’s inaugural Social Equity Award and has been named one of the most innovative public-service programs in the country by the independent group Best Value Schools.