Public Policy (MPP)

Description 

Simmons' Master in Public Policy program provides an interdisciplinary understanding of societal problems and their potential solutions. Students will have a command of public policy analysis and an applied understanding of the various institutional contexts in which public policy is developed and implemented.

Drawing on core courses from the Department of Politics & Policy, the Programs in Economics and Sociology, as well as elective courses from other programs in the University's six Schools, the MPP provides an integrated focus on public policy in the United States.

Upon completing their MPP at Simmons, students will have a command of public policy analysis and will have an applied understanding of the various institutional contexts in which public policy is developed and implemented.

 

Learning Outcomes

Students receiving an MPP degree will be skilled in policy analysis, as defined by the following:

  • An understanding of the factors that influence the direction of government action.
  • An understanding of the “tools” available to address policy problems.
  • An understanding of the effects of government action.
  • An understanding of the various constituencies that influence how policy is made, and the theoretical underpinnings of real life policy choices.
 

Requirements for Entry into the Program

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, achieving at least a B (3.0) average. All students must successfully complete a college level course in Statistics as well as Introduction to Microeconomics. 

 

 

 

Coursework

 

Credits: 30-33 (depending on the student's need for an internship)

Core Courses

MPP 501Policy Analysis & Theory

3

MPP 502Social Policy

3

MPP 503Economic Policy

3

MPP 504Quantitative Analysis

3

MPP 505Capstone

3

Electives

Five Electives

Internship (if deemed necessary by Program Director)