Program Overview

School of Public Policy

The School of Public Policy is dedicated to providing solutions for the region and the world. The school offers a range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Academic Programs

The school offers the following academic programs:

• Undergraduate Programs
  • BA in Public Policy
  • BA/MPP Program
  • Minor in Public Policy
• Graduate Programs
  • Master of Public Policy
    • Admission Requirements & FAQs
    • MPP Curriculum
    • Tuition & Fees
    • Client-Based Capstones
  • BA/MPP Program
  • Science to Policy
  • MD/MPP
  • Designated Emphasis in Public Policy
  • Graduate Preparation Program in Public Policy and Leadership

BA/MPP Program

The BA/MPP program is a five-year integrated program that allows students to obtain both BA and MPP degrees. The program consists of the regular BA program in Public Policy, with MPP coursework, internship, and capstone initiated during the fourth year and completed at the end of year five.

Program Details

• The program is open to UCR public policy undergraduates.
• Students can double-count up to 12 units of coursework.
• The program requires students to complete the full coursework and professional development colloquium required of the two-year MPP program during their senior and fifth years.
• The program includes an 8-unit capstone project (PBPL 289a,b) during the fifth year.

Admission Requirements

• The application will be submitted via a formal process.
• Students with a 3.0 overall/cumulative GPA and 3.2 major GPA are eligible for consideration.
• The program is expected to be highly competitive.
• Students should prepare the following for the application:
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Statement of Personal History
  • Resume
  • Transcripts (for any non-UCR coursework completed)
  • Letters of Recommendation

Statement of Purpose

The statement of purpose should include:

1. An explanation of how interest in public policy developed.
2. Career goals and aspirations.
3. Discussion of policy issues that the student is passionate about.

Statement of Personal History

The statement of personal history should discuss how experiences have prepared the student for the MPP program.

FAQs

• What is the "Statement of Purpose" and "Statement of Personal History?"
• How many Letters of Recommendation are required?
• Is there a course plan that should be followed?
• Do students have to pay graduate school tuition during their 4th year?
• Can students still walk and graduate after 4 years?

Answers

• The Statement of Purpose and Statement of Personal History are two separate essays that serve different purposes.
• Students are required to have three recommenders, one of which must be from a faculty member.
• A specific course plan is not required, but students should check in with SPP academic advisors to develop individualized course plans.
• No, students will pay undergraduate tuition during their 4th year.
• Yes, students who complete all undergraduate requirements by the end of their senior year are eligible to participate in Commencement.

Research Areas

The school has various research areas, including:

• Research Areas
• Books
• Journal Articles
• Working Papers
• Awards
• Policy Solution Centers
  • Center for Community Solutions
  • Presley Center of Crime & Justice Studies
  • Center for Geospatial Sciences

External Engagement

The school engages with the external community through:

• Press Releases
• Upcoming Events
• Past Events
• Podcast
• Client-Based Capstones
• How to Engage with Students
• Policy Solution Centers
  • Center for Community Solutions
  • Presley Center of Crime & Justice Studies
  • Center for Geospatial Sciences