Program Overview
Master of Public Policy Program
The Master of Public Policy (MPP) program at Duke University's Sanford School of Public Policy prepares early-career professionals to lead in government, nonprofits, and the private sector both within the U.S. and around the world. Through this rigorous, two-year residential program, students learn to use evidence-based analysis, data-driven decision-making, and inclusive leadership to solve public policy challenges and strengthen society through public service.
Program Details
- Program Type: Residential
- Program Length: Two years
- Application Deadline: January 5, 5 p.m. EST
- Admission Decisions: Mid-March
Curriculum
The core curriculum of the MPP program includes:
- Policy Analysis
- Data Analysis, Statistics and Evaluation
- Microeconomic Analysis
- Political Analysis (US or Global)
- Ethics
- Management and Leadership
- The Master's Capstone Project
Concentrations
The MPP Program offers eight policy-area concentrations:
- Policy Generalist
- Environment & Energy Policy
- Health Policy
- International Development Policy
- National Security Policy
- Social Policy
- Technology Policy
- Education Policy
To complete a concentration, students must:
- complete nine credits of coursework in the concentration
- complete a pre-approved summer internship
- complete Track 1 – a master’s project related to their concentration or Track 2 – specific capstone coursework related to their concentration
Curriculum Sequence
| Fall | Spring | Summer |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 |
- Policy Analysis I
- Political Analysis
- Microeconomic Analysis
- Statistics
- Career and Professional Skills Development Practicum
- Excel Foundations (self-paced, non-credit course) |
- Policy Analysis II
- Applied Microneconomics
- Statistics
- Elective(s) (3-12 credit hours) |
- Internship | | Year 2 |
- Master’s Project I or Track 2 course (design your own capstone)
- Electives (6-12 credit hours) |
- Master’s Project II or Track 2 course (design your own capstone)
- Electives (6-12 credit hours) |
Degree Requirements
51 credit hours are required to obtain the two-year MPP degree. 39 credit hours are required to obtain a dual-degree. The courses include a combination of required core courses and electives.
Dual Degrees
Dual degrees offer the options for students to work towards two degrees at once. An MPP can give students the analytical and policy skills they need while they complete graduate study in an area they are passionate about, such as environmental science or entrepreneurship.
Faculty
The faculty at Duke University’s Sanford School of Public Policy have earned national and international recognition for excellence in research, policy engagement, and teaching.
Practical Experiences
Real-world experience is one of the hallmarks of the Master of Public Policy program at Duke University's Sanford School. Notable ways MPP students receive hands-on opportunities to hone their skills include:
- Spring Consulting Projects
- Internships
- Master's Project
Career Services
At Duke Sanford, students' career goals are the priority. The Graduate Career Services Team is here to support and prepare students for a purpose-driven career in an evolving policy world.
MPP Graduation Rates & Career Outcomes
Recent graduation rates and career outcomes are available for cohorts from 2017 to 2023.
Application Information
A complete application includes:
- Statement of Purpose
- Resume
- Transcripts
- Three Letters of Recommendation
- Test Scores
- Video Introduction
- Curated Video (Optional but strongly recommended.)
- $80 Application Fee
Applications are open from mid-August to January 5 each year.
Cost
The base tuition is $61,610 per academic year, plus indirect costs. Robust financial aid is available to help students consider all the ways to fund their education.
Admissions FAQs
Answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the application process are available.
Student Experience
The student experience at Duke Sanford includes a wide range of experiences and perspectives, representing a rich spectrum of academic, professional, and cultural backgrounds. Students typically range from 24 to 32 years old, with an average of two to six years of post-undergraduate experience in fields aligned with their policy interests.
Featured MPP Student Stories
Stories of current students and their experiences in the MPP program are available, highlighting their motivations, focuses, and achievements.
The Student Experience
Information about student life, student voices, and the blog are available, providing insights into the experiences and perspectives of MPP students.