Master of Public Policy

Northeastern University

The Master of Public Policy (MPP) is the industry standard among public policy professionals. It emphasizes the analysis of data and other relevant information to assess public problems, develop appropriate policy responses, and evaluate program effectiveness. Northeastern University’s MPP program is dedicated to developing policies that create more just, equitable, and resilient cities.With the option to take courses online, on campus in Boston, or on campus in Arlington, this degree allows students to exchange diverse views, consult with faculty, and work collaboratively no matter where they are in the world. MPP graduates enter careers as policy analysts, researchers, consultants, program evaluators, and policymakers in a broad range of public, nonprofit, and private sector settings.The Northeastern MPP takes a practice-oriented, research-based approach. Students build a toolkit of essential skills in analysis, evaluation, statistical, economic, and decision-making. They also gain advanced technology skills, including Big Data analytics, data visualization, programming languages such as R and Python, GIS applications, and artificial intelligence. In addition to technical skills, the MPP program prioritizes social, economic, and racial justice to equip students with the people skills that employers ask for.All of our MPP courses incorporate real-life case studies and we partner with public and private organizations to offer on-the-job training through co-op, capstones, and internships.Learning OutcomesStudents will be able to:Analyze, synthesize, think critically, solve problems and make decisions, Identify and explain the institutional, structural, and political contexts of policymakingEmploy analytical tools to collect, analyze and interpret data, including appropriate statistical concepts and techniquesAnticipate in and contribute to the public policy process, Communicate results of analysis and interact productively with diverse audiencesAssess policies, research methods, and practices using a social justice lens

College of Social Sciences and Humanities