Introduction to the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy

The University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy blends its legacy of evidence-based policy research and analytical tools with a real-world inquiry of current topics that challenge today’s leaders.

The Harris Evening Master's Program

The part-time Evening Master’s Program (EMP) is an ideal fit for mid-career professionals from all industries, including nonprofits, law, education, consulting, healthcare, and more. We provide a deep understanding of policy fundamentals and a strong foundation in analytical tools that will augment your current skill set, helping you become a more informed leader and decision-maker.

Program Details

• Schedule and timing: two evening classes per week, one Saturday per quarter, with a September start date.
• Learning format: tight-knit cohort model of Chicago mid-career peer leaders, led by world-class UChicago faculty.
• Speed to degree: entire program takes four quarters (15 months) to complete.
• Applications are reviewed for both admissions decisions and scholarships.
• NO GRE/GMAT or other test score required to apply.

Academics

The University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy offers various degree programs, including:

• Master of Public Policy (MPP)
• MS in Climate and Energy Policy (MSCEP)
• MS in Computational Analysis and Public Policy
• Evening Master's Program (Part-time MA)
• MA in Public Policy
• MA in Public Policy with Certificate in Research Methods
• PhD
• Joint Degree Programs

Design Your Path

• Chicago Principles, Policies, and Perspectives
• Core Curriculum
• Practical Experience
• Specializations
• University of Chicago Obama Foundation Scholars
• Workshops

Admissions

• Applying to Harris
  • International Students
  • FAQ
  • Admissions Resources
  • Harris Scholars Program
• Meet with Harris
  • Admissions Events
  • Connect with Our Students
  • Masterclass Series
  • Meet Our Staff
  • Schedule a Visit
• Financing Your Degree
  • Public Sector Scholarship
  • Loans & Work-Study
  • Third-Party Funding
  • Tuition & Expenses

Student Life

• What to Expect
  • From Orientation to Graduation
  • Connect with Your Community
• Student Engagement & Belonging
  • City of Chicago
  • Meet the Student Engagement & Belonging Team
  • Mentor Program
  • Our Campus Community
  • Student Organizations
• Dean of Students Office
  • Academic Advising
  • Harris Writing Workshop
  • Academic Support Programs
  • Meet the Dean of Students Office
  • Student Emergency Resources
  • Policies

Career Development

• Careers in Courses
  • International Development
  • Municipal Finance
• Internship Program
• Career Outcomes
  • EMP Outcomes
  • Internship Outcomes
  • MSCAPP Outcomes
  • Overall Outcomes
  • Where Students Work
  • Archive
• Employers
  • Ready to Hire Harris?
  • Our Offer Policy
  • PhDs on the Job Market

Research & Impact

• Centers & Institutes
  • Center for Economic Policy
  • Center for Effective Government
  • Center for Health Policy
  • Center for Human Potential and Public Policy (CHPPP)
  • Center for Impact Sciences
  • Center for Municipal Finance
  • Center for Survey Methodology
  • Center for the Economics of Human Development
  • Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC)
  • International Innovation Corps
  • Stone Center for Research on Wealth Inequality and Mobility
  • The Pearson Institute
  • Urban Labs
  • Affiliated Centers
• Faculty Impact
  • Nobel Prize Winning Faculty
  • Faculty Directory
  • Expert Guide
• Initiatives & Partnerships
  • Cyber Policy Initiative
  • Technology and Society Initiative

News & Events

• News
  • News
  • Profile
  • Research
  • In the News
  • Admissions Blog
• Events
  • Academic Conferences
  • Admissions Events
  • Alumni Events
  • Student Events
  • Special Events
  • Visiting Speakers
  • Past Events
• Podcasts
  • Not Another Politics Podcast
  • The Inequality Podcast
  • Public Money Pod
  • Battle of the Branches
  • UChicago Public Policy Podcast Network
  • Shocked
• Newsletters
  • Not Another Politics Newsletter
  • Pointed: Policy Research Newsletter
  • Public Money Policy Newsletter

Application Deadlines

• Interim targeted application deadline: Friday, December 5, 2025
• Final deadline: Tuesday, June 16, 2026

University of Chicago Summary

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Overview:

The University of Chicago is a prestigious research university located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago. It is known for its rigorous academic programs, emphasis on independent thinking, and commitment to intellectual freedom. The university boasts a diverse community of scholars and students who contribute to groundbreaking research and advancements in various fields.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university offers a vibrant campus experience with a diverse community, access to arts and culture, and a strong connection to the surrounding South Side neighborhood. Students can expect a challenging academic environment that fosters independent thinking and critical analysis.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Rigorous academic programs:

The university is renowned for its challenging and intellectually stimulating curriculum.

Emphasis on independent thinking:

Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills and engage in original research.

Intellectual freedom:

The university provides a supportive environment for faculty and students to pursue their research interests without limitations.

Field-defining research:

The university has a long history of groundbreaking research and discoveries that have shaped various fields.

Global impact:

The university is actively involved in addressing global challenges through research, initiatives, and programs across the world.

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Academic Programs:

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Other:

The university is deeply connected to its surrounding community and invests in the South Side through initiatives in health, education, economic growth, and the arts. It also emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion, fostering a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds.