A master of public policy, or MPP, will prepare you to excel in a wide array of rewarding leadership positions in the booming field of public policy. With an MPP, you will have many strong opportunities available in staff and managerial positions in many government agencies at the local, state, federal and international levels. Many of these positions may be in the legislative, executive or judicial branches of government. You also may work for candidates for political office, civic organizations and also public policy journalism. See MPH vs MPP.
Master of Public Policy Salary
The average salary for a professional with a master of public policy will vary depending on the type of job and organization. See MPP Salary. For example:
- Executive director – nonprofit: $60,000
- HR director: $88,000
- Policy analyst: $45,000
- Program administrator – nonprofit: $46,000
- Purchasing manager: $52,000
- Research director: $66,000
- Research manager: $58,900
- Education director: $59,800
- Development executive: $86,500
Master of Public Policy Jobs and Careers
In their careers, people with an MPP are often focused on public service. MPP programs were often once created to train only government officials and employees, but today there are many career paths open with this degree – in government, nonprofits and the private sector. Some graduates will indeed gravitate towards government, while others will work for consulting firms that work closely with government.
Typical career paths include:
- Nonprofits
- All levels of government
- Health care
- Education
- Homeland security
- International organizations
Master of Public Policy Online Programs
Online programs provide you a very convenient, highly flexible way to attain your MPP, while continuing to work full time. Some of the top online master of public policy programs include:
Featured Online School Offerings
Master of Public Policy Requirements
Most applicants for a master in public policy have several years of work experience, and a GPA from their undergraduate studies of at least 2.5. Most MPP programs will combine very strong instruction in the key aspects of public policy with a detailed analysis of modern public policy problems in organizations and in the field. Typically, your coursework will focus on analysis of policy, economics, and organizations, as well as quantitative analysis, and a strong focus on solutions to complex public policy issues. Classes may include statistics, administrative law, public policy analysis, budgeting and finance, data applications, survey research, environmental politics, and health policy. An internship is usually required, as well.
Master of Public Policy Scholarships
While it is true that more scholarships are available to undergraduate students, you still can qualify for substantial financial aid for your master of public policy. Schools that offer scholarship assistance include:
