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Economics + Public Policy (3+1)

Economics + Public Policy (3+1)

Combining a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a Master of Arts in Public Policy, this highly interdisciplinary program is built on the belief that the political process can bring about social change.

Do you believe in the power of public policy to transform lives?

The 3+1 Public Policy Program will uniquely position you to make a difference at local, national and global levels. You'll use your vision, compassion and insight to make a positive impact.

Coursework in the first three years draws on our vigorous liberal arts curriculum to provide an strong foundation in economics. Master's level coursework in public policy begins by the end of the third year and culminates in an intense and practical Capstone Project in Public Policy. Drawing on Boston's vibrant legislative, nonprofit and advocacy resources, the Capstone blends your internship experience with the opportunity to address real policy issues in a substantial written work.

You'll graduate with a command of public policy analysis and a deep understanding of the different contexts in which public policy is developed and implemented — ready to lead and implement real change.

Program Requirements

In the 3 + 1 program in Economics and Public Policy, students complete the Economics major in three years and the interdisciplinary MA in Public Policy in the fourth year. Success in the program will require close collaboration with a faculty advisor, who will guide the student in careful course selection and scheduling.

Is the 3+1 Right for You?

The 3+1 Public Policy Program is designed for highly motivated students who are interested in running for public office, working in legislative offices on legislative policy, becoming involved in advocacy or nonprofit work, or pursuing a PhD or law degree. You should enjoy analyzing complex problems and have strong interest in economics.

Learn more about our economics and public policy programs.

Department of Politics and Policy Professor Gregory P. Williams oversees the 3+1 Public Policy Program. Zinnia Mukherjee is the major advisor for students interested in the BA in Economics to MA in Public Policy track.

Close mentorship is vital to 3+1 success. You'll work one on one with your advisor throughout the program to ensure your progress and to meet your personal and professional goals.

To find out more about the program, contact Gregory P. Williams or Zinnia Mukherjee.

Careers

The career outlook for graduates with advanced degrees in public policy is bright. The MPP degree qualifies you to work in many different capacities within government, as well as the nonprofit and private sectors.

Careers that Change the World

There are many rewarding routes you can take with this degree combination. Some possibilities include:

Policy analyst for government or the private sector
Legislative aide
National, state, or local policymaker
Budget analyst
Research associate at a think tank, policy institute, or other organizations that conduct research and engage in advocacy
Policy specialist at an advocacy organization, direct services agency, or other community resource that offers support and services

Our Faculty

Leanne Doherty

Vice Provost

Masato Aoki

Associate Professor

Zinnia Mukherjee

Associate Professor

Niloufer Sohrabji

Professor and Program Director for Economics and Director of General Education

Gregory Williams

Associate Professor and Program Director, Master in Public Policy

Spotlight on Economics + Public Policy Students and Alums

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Building a Family History at Simmons

Nearly a century ago, Anna T. Kenney attended Simmons College, majoring in Secretarial Studies. Now, Kenney’s great-granddaughter, Annie Doherty ’26, has followed in her great-grandmother's footsteps to Simmons.