Program Overview

Introduction to the LSE-Columbia Double Master of Public Administration

The LSE-Columbia Double Master of Public Administration is a two-year program that offers students the opportunity to earn two degrees and study at two globally renowned institutions: the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA). This program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of public policy, administration, and management, as well as the skills and expertise needed to address complex policy issues and pursue a high-level career in government, international organizations, the private sector, or non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

Key Information

• Study mode: Full-time
• Programme availability: Home and overseas students
• Academic year: 2026/27
• Start date: September 2026
• Location: Houghton Street, London, and New York City
• Application deadline: 17 March 2026

Overview

The LSE-Columbia Double Master of Public Administration is a unique program that combines the academic rigor of LSE with the practical experience of SIPA. In the first year, students will develop their understanding of political science, economics, and quantitative analysis, as well as the principles underlying good public policy. In the second year, students will choose one policy concentration and complete an industry project with an external client, applying their learnings to a real-world policy challenge.

Entry Requirements

• BA degree or equivalent: A minimum Upper Second Class (2:1) in the UK system or international equivalent grade, in any subject discipline.
• English language proficiency: Candidates must also be able to provide proof of English Language Proficiency to LSE's "Higher" level.
• Previous professional work experience: There is no formal requirement for previous professional work experience, but students starting the LSE MPA normally have one year of professional experience, and many have two or more years of experience.

Programme Content

Year 1

• Micro and Macro Economics for Public Policy: Students will learn macro- and micro-economic concepts, models, and methods suitable for appraising policy, applicable in a wide variety of contexts.
• Political Science and Public Policy: Students will learn concepts and models for understanding the behavior of political actors and why they lead to particular outcomes.
• Quantitative Approaches and Policy Analysis: Students will learn skills for the quantitative evaluation of public policies, such as causal relationships, randomized control trials, difference-in-difference estimation, instrumental variables, regression discontinuity designs, and cost-benefit analysis.

Year 2

• Concentration courses: Students will choose one concentration from a list of options, including Climate, Energy, and Environment; Data Science for Policy; Development and Governance; Human Rights, Gender, and Equity; International Finance and Policy; International Security and Diplomacy; Technology Policy and Innovation; and Urban and Social Policy.
• Capstone Workshop: Students will enroll in a faculty-supervised Capstone workshop, which provides an opportunity to put learning into practice.

Why Study with Us

• Student stories: Hear from current students and alumni about their experiences in the program.
• Meet the department: Learn about the LSE School of Public Policy and its faculty, research, and community.
• Why LSE: Discover why LSE is a top university for social science and management subjects, and how its location in London provides a unique opportunity for students to engage with global policymakers and practitioners.

Your Application

• Overview: Applicants will need to apply for the LSE/Columbia MPA double degree program directly via the LSE application process.
• When to apply: The application deadline is 17 March 2026.

Fees and Funding

• Tuition fees: The tuition fee for the first year at LSE is £34,100 for both home and overseas students. The tuition fee for the second year at Columbia is not included in the LSE fee and will be paid directly to Columbia.
• Scholarships, bursaries, and loans: LSE offers a range of scholarships, bursaries, and loans to support students with their tuition fees and living costs.

Learning and Assessment

• How you learn: Students will have a combination of lectures, seminars, and workshops, as well as opportunities for independent study and research.
• How you're assessed: Assessment will be through a combination of exams, written assignments, class participation, and group projects, depending on the course.

Graduate Destinations

• Overview: The LSE-Columbia MPA double degree provides students with the skills and expertise needed to pursue a high-level career in government, international organizations, the private sector, or NGOs.
• Career support: Students will have access to career support and resources from both LSE and Columbia, including career coaching, networking events, and job fairs.

Related Programs

• Master of Public Administration: A one-year program that provides students with the skills and expertise needed to address complex policy issues and pursue a high-level career in government, international organizations, the private sector, or NGOs.
• Master of Public Policy: A one-year program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of public policy, administration, and management, as well as the skills and expertise needed to address complex policy issues and pursue a high-level career in government, international organizations, the private sector, or NGOs.
• Executive Master of Public Administration: A 22-month program that provides students with the skills and expertise needed to address complex policy issues and pursue a high-level career in government, international organizations, the private sector, or NGOs, while working full-time.
• LSE-Sciences Po Double Master of Public Administration: A two-year program that provides students with the opportunity to earn two degrees and study at two globally renowned institutions: LSE and Sciences Po.
• LSE-University of Toronto Double Master of Public Administration (LSE) and Master of Global Affairs (Munk School): A two-year program that provides students with the opportunity to earn two degrees and study at two globally renowned institutions: LSE and the University of Toronto.