What is an MPP degree?
A Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree is a professional preparation for people who will analyze, design, research, and evaluate public policy. While the program is used interchangeably in more recent years with the MPA, it differs in course curriculum due to its typically heavier emphasis on quantitative analysis, research methods, statistics and advanced data analysis, and qualitative research. The MPP also offers various specializations: urban policy, social policy, health policy, global policy, nonprofit leadership, economic development, information technology, etc. People with an MPP may work in the same career fields as those with an MPA/MPSA.
The Masters of Public Policy (MPP) degree emphasizes analyzing and evaluating information to solve policy problems. As analysts, managers, and leaders, MPP graduates work with quantitative and qualitative information and data to develop, assess, and evaluate alternative approaches to current and emerging issues. Their careers are in variety of public service fields and in all levels of government (federal, state, local, and regional), in nonprofits, in the international arena, and in the private sector. Coursework for MPP candidates typically includes required core courses and a concentration or specialization. Core courses often include statistics and data analysis, public finance, microeconomics and macroeconomics, research design, program evaluation, public policy, organization and management concepts and behavior, and ethics. MPP candidates who know their specialized interests before beginning their coursework should select a program that offers that specialization or concentration
