Master of Public Policy (MPP)

Program Overview

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The Master of Public Policy (MPP) program at Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government equips professionals with knowledge and skills for leadership roles in the public sector. Through a combination of core and elective modules, students gain expertise in policy analysis, planning, management, and research. Upon completion, graduates are prepared to analyze policy issues, develop effective solutions, and contribute to innovative and smart public policies in a globalized landscape.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

The Master of Public Policy (MPP) program at Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG) is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills to excel in various leadership roles within the public sector, including policy analysis, planning, management, and research. The program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of public policy development, implementation, and evaluation, encompassing theoretical and practical knowledge.

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Objectives:

The program's objectives are to:

• Develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding: Students will gain a deep understanding of public policy theories, perspectives, and their application in real-world contexts.
• Enhance intellectual and practical skills: The program focuses on developing analytical, critical thinking, research, and communication skills essential for effective policy analysis and decision-making.
• Cultivate competence and attributes: Students will develop the necessary skills and attributes to become effective leaders in public policy, including problem-solving, teamwork, and communication.

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Program Mission:

The MPP program aims to empower students to become specialized policymakers and policy analysts, capable of leading and managing innovative and smart public policies in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

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Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the MPP program, students will be able to:

• Analyze the relationship between governance structure and policy performance: Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of how governance structures influence policy outcomes and develop innovative public governance systems to address future challenges.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of public policy development, implementation, and evaluation: Students will learn to critically assess the effectiveness of various policy tools and methods, ensuring optimal policy outcomes.
• Measure the values of governance: Students will understand the importance of performance, accountability, transparency, and citizen engagement in shaping effective public policies.
• Analyze public policies in key sectors: Students will develop the skills to analyze public policies in critical areas such as economics, social welfare, education, health, and sustainable development using appropriate research methods.
• Appraise the impact of global trends on governance and public policy: Students will gain insights into the influence of global political and economic institutions, knowledge sharing, and current trends on public policy.
• Utilize effective leadership and teamwork skills: Students will develop the necessary leadership and teamwork skills to address complex public organizational problems and communicate policy decisions effectively.

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Outline:

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Program Structure:

The MPP program is offered in both full-time and part-time formats.

• Full-time: 18 months
• Part-time: 2 years
The program consists of 180 credits, divided into six modules and a dissertation.

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Module Structure:

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Core Modules:

• MPP 701: Governance & Policy Process (20 credits): This module explores theories of governance and public policy processes, analyzing the impact of globalization, technology, and innovation on policy making, implementation, and evaluation.
• MPP 702: Public Policy Analysis (20 credits): This module focuses on qualitative and quantitative research methods for public policy analysis, covering research design, data collection, and analysis techniques.
• MPP 703: Public Economics & Finance (20 credits): This module examines the economic foundations of policy analysis and fiscal administration, exploring the role of government intervention in the economy and its impact on various sectors.
• MPP 704: Microeconomics of Competitiveness (20 credits): This module delves into the determinants of competitiveness and economic development from a microeconomic perspective, analyzing the strategies of firms, clusters, and the business environment.

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Elective Modules:

Students choose two elective modules from the following options, depending on their chosen specialization:

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Social Policy:

• MPP 711: Social Policy (20 credits): This module examines theories of public policy with a focus on social policies and current reform challenges, analyzing the interplay between socio-economic context, social policy actors, and institutions.
• MPP 714: Comparative Higher Education (20 credits): This module examines global trends and challenges facing higher education providers, evaluating policy responses and focusing on the UAE's higher education landscape.

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Health:

• MPP 715: Health Policy Law & Ethics Management (20 credits): This module provides an understanding of health policy in the UAE, covering policy development, implementation, key stakeholders, and ethical considerations.
• MPP 716: Public Health Policy Leadership & Systems Thinking (20 credits): This module explores leadership models and theories, the core principles of public health leadership, and the application of systems thinking to public health.

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Sustainable Development:

• MPP 717: Global Sustainable Development – the Challenge (20 credits): This module examines the core challenges of sustainable development, analyzing the balancing act between economic, social, and environmental considerations.

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Science & Technology:

• MPP 719: The Political Economy of Science Policy (20 credits): This module focuses on policy issues concerning the organization, funding, and performance of research systems, examining the US, European, and Chinese research systems.
• MPP 720: Science, Technology And Innovation: Markets, Firms And Policies (20 credits): This module explores innovation management, technology policy, and related issues, covering intellectual property rights, information and communication technology, and environmental management.

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Dissertation:

• MPP 901: Dissertation (60 credits): This module requires students to conduct original research on a strategic management, innovation management, or service innovation issue relevant to the region, culminating in a dissertation that presents research findings and recommendations.

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Program Requirements:

To graduate with an MPP degree, students must successfully complete six modules and a dissertation, totaling 180 credits, with an overall average grade of 60% or above.

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Delivery Mode:

The MPP program is delivered through weekly small group interactive lectures offered in the afternoon and early evening. Each 20-credit module comprises a minimum of 30 hours of direct contact, supplemented by 170 hours of directed independent learning and self-access study.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Assignments: Written assignments, case studies, and research papers.
• Presentations: Oral presentations and group projects.
• Exams: Midterm and final exams.
• Dissertation: A comprehensive research project culminating in a written dissertation.

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Assessment Criteria:

Assessment criteria are based on the program's learning outcomes and include:

• Knowledge and understanding: Demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of public policy theories, concepts, and their application.
• Analytical skills: Applying critical thinking and analytical skills to analyze policy issues and develop solutions.
• Research skills: Conducting research, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting findings effectively.
• Communication skills: Communicating ideas clearly and effectively in written and oral formats.
• Leadership and teamwork skills: Demonstrating effective leadership and teamwork skills in group projects and presentations.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

The MPP program employs a variety of teaching methods to enhance student learning, including:

• Interactive lectures: Engaging lectures that encourage student participation and discussion.
• Case studies: Real-world case studies to apply theoretical concepts and develop problem-solving skills.
• Group projects: Collaborative projects to foster teamwork and communication skills.

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Faculty:

The MPP program is taught by a team of experienced and qualified faculty members with expertise in public policy, governance, and related fields.

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

Graduates of the MPP program are well-prepared for a range of career paths in the public and private sectors, including:

• Policy Analyst: Analyzing policy issues, conducting research, and developing policy recommendations.
• Public Administrator: Managing public programs and services, ensuring efficient and effective delivery.
• Research Analyst: Conducting research on public policy issues and contributing to knowledge development.
• Consultant: Providing consulting services to government agencies and organizations on policy matters.
• Non-profit Leader: Leading and managing non-profit organizations focused on public policy issues.

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Opportunities:

The MPP program provides graduates with the skills and knowledge to pursue a variety of career opportunities in the public sector, including:

• Government agencies: Federal, state, and local government agencies.
• International organizations: United Nations, World Bank, and other international organizations.
• Think tanks and research institutions: Policy research and analysis organizations.
• Non-profit organizations: Advocacy and service organizations.

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Outcomes:

Graduates of the MPP program are equipped to:

• Lead and manage public policy initiatives: Develop and implement effective public policies.
• Analyze and solve complex policy problems: Apply critical thinking and analytical skills to address policy challenges.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders: Engage with policymakers, citizens, and other stakeholders.
Students are also required to complete an online Post Graduate Academic Skills Course to enhance their academic skills.
• Program Exit with a Post Graduate Diploma: Students can exit the program with a Post Graduate Diploma after completing 120 credits, prior to attempting the dissertation.
• Alignment with National and Global Initiatives: The MPP program is aligned with the UAE National Innovation Strategy (NIS), the United Nations Global Goals- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the UAE Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA).