Program Overview
Master of Public Policy (MPP) Program
The Master of Public Policy (MPP) at the Joseph R. Biden, Jr. School of Public Policy and Administration at the University of Delaware provides advanced analytic and substantive knowledge of public policy to educate professionals for work in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors on issues of public concern at all levels, local to global. MPP education trains students to rigorously analyze policy components so that policy that is crafted and later implemented will effectively address the complex issues that face our society.
Program Overview
This interdisciplinary degree draws from multiple fields of study, including economics, political science, sociology, psychology, education, law, history, and public health. The Biden School MPP degree focuses on professional skills in public policy analysis, evaluation, and communication. MPP students are educated in the well-known Delaware Model for Public Affairs education, where hands-on, real-world experience is necessary. Classroom experience in the MPP program is supplemented by applied policy research and internship opportunities offered by the Biden School, its affiliated programs and centers, and external partners.
Curriculum
The MPP degree requires completion of 42 credits:
- A core of 27 credits
- Electives of 9 credits
- An internship
- A 6-credit capstone course
Career Outcomes
MPP graduates often serve as translators between researchers, advocates, and policymakers. They help policymakers understand complex data and research results that should inform public policy-making and stakeholder and constituent demands for public policy. This translational role can be served within or outside of government, including in nonprofit organizations, consulting firms, and other private businesses. Indeed, many public policy graduates work for both governmental and non-governmental organizations at some point in their careers.
Admissions Requirements
Our graduate application system is designed to put you in control of not only the application but all documents associated with it. We have designated areas within the application where each required document should be uploaded. Please note that the online MPA program requires two years of professional experience. You'll need:
- A completed online application
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year university
- A current résumé
- Unofficial copies of your transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- A personal statement
- Biden School supplemental application form
- No GRE required
Admissions Deadlines
- Fall: December 15 (priority); August 15
- Spring: December 15 (priority); January 15
Tuition and Fees
Please refer to the UD Graduate College for the most up-to-date information on tuition and fees.
Scholarships and Funding
The Biden School offers various scholarships and funding opportunities to support students in their academic pursuits.
Accelerated MPP Degrees
Complete your bachelor's degree and a master's program in just five years! Students complete a traditional four-year undergraduate program in four years and then pursue a master's program in the fifth (+1) year saving time and money. Available accelerated degrees include:
- Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy/Master of Public Policy (BA/MPP)
- Bachelor of Arts in Africana Studies/Master of Public Policy (BA/MPP)
- Bachelor of Arts in Women and Gender Studies/Master of Public Policy (BA/MPP)
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics/Master of Public Policy (BA/MPP)
- Bachelor of Science in Economics/Master of Public Policy (BS/MPP)
Faculty and Research
Biden School faculty embraces the "Delaware Model" of integrating research, teaching, and public service to prepare graduates to impact communities locally and globally. Our faculty are productive scholars, excellent teachers, and skilled practitioners with decades of experience in their field.