Public Policy

Why Study Public Policy at Simmons?

Simmons MPP students are passionate about making a difference. Through this master’s degree, they gain a command of public policy analysis and an applied understanding of the various surrounding institutional contexts. This fosters their ability to bring about positive change from policy development through to its implementation, understanding completely the impact of their work on all levels of society.

The 11-course Master’s in Public Policy degree can be taken through full- or part-time study with most students completing the degree within two years. Its dynamic curriculum draws on courses in economics, quantitative methods, political science, and sociology, providing students with an interdisciplinary foundation that leads to deeper, more substantive policy analysis. Accentuated by elective courses in the College of Social Sciences, Policy, and Practice, the MPP degree provides an integrated, well-rounded perspective of public policy in the United States. Explore the full course breakdown below in the Program Requirements section.

The MPP degree also includes both an internship experience and capstone project that challenge students to put in-classroom theory into action to strategize effective policy solutions grounded firmly in data analysis. Each of these hands-on learning experiences help students refine their academic focus and skill set as they work diligently for real clients to address their public policy challenges.

Simmons students have the unique benefit of being located in Boston, a lively hub of innovation in government, academics, and medicine. This provides endless, meaningful internship placement locations as well as access to future employment opportunities and networking opportunities.

Program Learning Objectives

Students receiving an MPP degree will be skilled in multi-dimensional policy analysis, as defined by the following:

• An understanding of the factors that influence the direction of government action
• An understanding of the “tools” available to address policy problems
• An understanding of the effects of government action
• An understanding of the various constituencies that influence how policy is made and the theoretical underpinnings of real life policy choices

Beyond the coursework, MPP students also develop essential skills needed to be successful in the public policy field, including written and verbal communication, public speaking, conflict resolution, interpersonal management, problem solving, and decision making ability.

MPP Career Outlook

Simmons MPP graduates go on to make an impactful difference in the world. They are experienced leaders capable of creating and implementing policy solutions to society’s most pressing problems.

Our graduates have pursued rewarding careers in government, the private sector, nonprofit organizations, and advocacy centers, assuming important positions such as:

• Policy Analyst
• Government Relations Manager/Advocate
• Advancement Officer
• City Manager or Councilor
• Nonprofit Research Analyst
• Legislative Aide

Some students also opt to continue their education and further specialize in their area of professional interest by pursuing a law degree or Ph.D. program in public policy, political science, economics, and sociology.

MPP Admission Requirements

Students interested in applying to the MPP degree program must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, achieving at least a B (3.0) average. All students must successfully complete a college level course in Statistics as well as Introduction to Microeconomics.

Applicants must submit the following items to be considered for admission:

• Online Application
• Official Transcript(s) of all undergraduate and graduate-level courses taken
• $35 Non-refundable Application Fee
• Current résumé
• Statement of Purpose
• Two Letters of Recommendation (One from Academic Source)
• Academic or Policy-based Writing Sample

Learn more about the MPP application process, including upcoming admission deadlines.

Lead the Development of Impactful Public Policy

Simmons University’s Master in Public Policy degree is the ideal fit for students seeking to put their analytical skills into practice to strategize effective, data-driven policy solutions that address issues occurring in their communities.

Ready to get started? Request more information or apply now!