Welcome to the UMass Amherst School of Public Policy
Make Positive Social Change. Become a Leader in Public Service.
Learn to solve problems for the common good and become a leader in the nonprofit, public, or private sector in programs that balance policy and management analysis, professional skills development and practical experience.
For undergraduates, we offer a new bachelor's degree in public policy, launched in the fall of 2022. Undergraduates can also earn a certificate in public policy.
For graduate students, take advantage of one of several degree options:
- A one-year Master of Public Affairs, which combines online and in-person classes so that students earn their degrees quickly and affordably
- A 4+1 Master of Public Affairs, which allows exceptional students at UMass Amherst and the other Five Colleges to begin work on a master's degree during their senior year
- A two-year Master of Public Policy & Administration
- Dual-degree programs in business administration, higher education administration, public health, and regional planning
Graduate students can enroll on a full- or part-time basis. The GRE is not required to apply. We strive to make our graduate programs financially accessible to all students.
The UMass Amherst School of Public Policy received the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration’s inaugural Social Equity Award.
