Master of Public Administration & Master of Public Policy
Preparing the Next Generation of Policy Leaders
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Benefits
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World-renowned experiential learning
We prepare students to succeed in dynamic, diverse professional environments, and real-world experience is key to our mission. Experiential opportunities include full-time co-ops; flexible internship options; and a capstone that delivers a portfolio-ready project. -
Finish in as little as 1.5 years
The MPA and MPP programs have four starts a year: fall, spring, summer 1, and summer 2. -
Available online, on campus, or both
No matter whether you take all your courses online, on campus, or move between modalities, you’ll experience the same engaging coursework taught by our exceptional faculty, plus many opportunities to connect with your classmates. -
NASPAA-accredited MPA program
Accreditation from the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration is the global standard in master’s degree programs. It shows that Northeastern is committed to public-service values and that we meet rigorous standards for our educational programs. -
No GRE required
When it comes to serving the public, we're more interested in a passion for public policy than test scores. Any domestic or international student with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is welcome to apply.
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To learn more and download a brochure about Northeastern University's Master of Public Administration & Master of Public Policy programs, fill out the fields below. You can also call us toll-free at +1 877.377.2739 or at +1 617.655.6736 to talk with one of our admissions counselors.
At Northeastern University, we are dedicated to analyzing and implementing policies that create more just, equitable, and resilient cities. Our world-class Master of Public Administration and Master of Public Policy programs are focused on interdisciplinary, experiential learning with the goal of shaping skilled policy leaders ready to work in any job setting. We believe in serving communities, not just studying them.
Choose Where and When You Take Your Classes
Students can complete their entire graduate degree online or take a hybrid approach with a mix of on-campus and online classes. MPA students can take courses on our Boston campus and beginning Fall 2024, on our Arlington, VA and Oakland campuses. MPP students can take courses on our Boston and Arlington campuses.
The online modalities are taught by the same exceptional faculty as our on-campus courses. All online classes are offered asynchronously, and all on-campus classes start after 5 p.m. so that students can balance their education and their work schedules.
Add In-Demand Data, Analytical, and Technical Skills
Our master’s students build a toolkit of core leadership, economic, management, and analysis skills. They also gain advanced technology skills, including Big Data analytics, data visualization, programming languages such as R and Python, GIS applications, and artificial intelligence.
Learn to Communicate Complex Ideas and Lead Inclusive Teams
Through interactive coursework, in-class presentations, and real-world experiences, Northeastern students expand their abilities to communicate complex ideas effectively, build relationships with stakeholders, and collaborate across diverse teams. With enhanced leadership and interpersonal skills, graduates are ready to make valuable contributions to the organizations and communities they serve.
Finish in Less Than Two Years Even With Part-Time Coursework
The NU MPA and MPP can each be completed in as little as four semesters. We welcome students from all backgrounds and career goals from around the world.
Learn more about Northeastern University’s Master of Public Administration or Master of Public Policy programs.
Northeastern’s College of Social Sciences and Humanities also offers a Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice program online and on campus. Click here for details.
100%
The job placement rate of the 2021–22 graduates of Northeastern’s MPP program
#1
U.S. News & World Report ranks Northeastern #1 in the nation for programs that combine classroom learning with real-world experience.
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
The MPA is the management degree for those who want to serve the public good. Our program teaches students how to think strategically about managing policy initiatives in the twenty-first century.
Our students have the chance to gain first-hand experience in management. Public administration graduates enter or advance in careers as program directors, management analysts, research analysts, town administrators, and more.
Choose your modality: Northeastern students can earn their MPA degree on campus in Boston, Arlington or Oakland, or fully online. Hybrid MPA degree options are also available.
Sample public administration graduate degree courses:
- Statistical Analysis
- Techniques of Policy Analysis
- Economic Analysis for Policy and Planning
- Principles of Public Administration
- Public Budgeting and Financial Management
- Institutional Leadership
- Capstone in Public Policy and Urban Affairs
Learn more about our Master of Public Administration online and on-campus options.
Master of Public Administration Graduation and Degree Completion Rates
For MPA students entering 2018-2019, 38% earned their degrees within two years, 76% earned their degrees within three years and 76% within four years.
| INITIALLY ENROLLED | GRADUATED WITHIN 2 YEARS | GRADUATED WITHIN 3 YEARS | GRADUATED WITHIN 4 YEARS | TOTAL STUDENTS GRADUATED AND PERSISTING TO GRADUATION | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOTAL NUMBER OF STUDENTS | 21 | 8 | 16 | 16 | 17 |
| BOSTON | 18 | 8 | 13 | 13 | 14 |
| VIRTUAL | 3 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
Master of Public Policy (MPP)
The master of public policy degree is the recognized industry standard for those seeking careers in public policy analysis, design, and evaluation.
The MPP at Northeastern emphasizes the analysis of data and other relevant information to enable graduates to assess public problems, develop appropriate policy responses, and evaluate program effectiveness.
Our students have the chance to gain first-hand experience in shaping policy. MPP graduates enter or advance in careers as policy analysts, researchers, consultants, program evaluators, policymakers, and more.
Choose your modality: Northeastern students can earn their MPP degree in Boston; near Washington, D.C., with our Arlington campus; or earn their degree fully online. Hybrid MPP degree options are also available.
Sample public policy graduate degree courses:
- Techniques of Program Evaluation
- Techniques of Policy Analysis
- Research Methods in Social Sciences
- Statistical Analysis
- Economic Analysis for Policy and Planning
- Strategizing Public Policy
- Capstone in Public Policy and Urban Affairs
Learn more about our Master of Public Policy online and on-campus options.
Real-world, applied learning has been part of Northeastern’s DNA since the University’s founding. We work with our students to make sure they have access to rewarding, practical experiences, no matter where they live. All of our courses incorporate real-life case studies and we consistently partner with public and private organizations to bring in diverse perspectives.
Students benefit from our faculty’s extensive connections in Boston, Washington, D.C., and around the world, while also getting to address challenges within their own communities. They graduate with job-ready experience and a portfolio of policy work.
- In-Class: Courses incorporate case studies, small group exercises, and applied projects
- Research: Students collaborate with faculty on groundbreaking research in class and with our research centers
- Co-op: NU’s signature program lets students earn credit for full-time, on-the-job training
- Capstone: Teams partner with local, state, or federal agencies or nonprofit institutions to assess a problem, produce a policy analysis, and recommend solutions
- Internship: Students gain practical experience through part-time work in public and nonprofit organizations
There is no substitute for experience. You can learn something from a book, and even from an instructor, but putting your training into practice, and learning what worked, and what did not, is essential to intellectual and professional growth.
With three campuses available, Northeastern University’s School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs prioritizes offering a dynamic education that meets the needs of all students. Each campus provides unique experiential learning opportunities and access to local experts.
Boston
Northeastern’s flagship Boston campus offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in a vibrant historic city, foster deep connections with public and nonprofit organizations, and access an urban hub renowned for its legacy of innovation and higher education.
The Boston campus is available to domestic and international students in the Master of Public Administration and Master of Public Policy programs.
Arlington
Situated in the heart of the U.S. National Capital Region, Northeastern’s Arlington, VA campus offers students unparalleled access to government, nonprofit, and NGO organizations engaged in transformative work. Students gain valuable guidance and networking opportunities so that they can navigate the dynamic Washington, D.C. ecosystem.
The Arlington campus is currently available to domestic and international students in the Master of Public Policy and, starting in the Fall 2024 term, the Master of Public Administration.
Oakland
As the West Coast hub of Northeastern’s global network, the Oakland campus provides graduate students with extensive career- and community-building activities in the San Francisco Bay Area, connecting them with local governments and community partner organizations for collaborative research and professional development.
The Oakland campus will be available to domestic and international students in the Master of Public Administration starting in the Fall 2024 term.
Northeastern is an exciting and dynamic place, and we attract students who reflect that.
About Northeastern University
Founded in 1898, Northeastern is a global research university and the recognized leader in experience-powered lifelong learning. Our world-renowned experiential approach empowers our students, faculty, alumni, and partners to go beyond discipline, degree, and campus. We pride ourselves on innovative education and nimble thinking.
We collaborate with more than 3,300+ corporate partners in 90 countries, on every continent. Our worldwide network of professionals and engaged university citizens includes more than 255,000 alumni.
Northeastern’s nine colleges and schools offer a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs—in on-campus, online, and hybrid formats. Among these, we offer more than 140 multidisciplinary majors and degrees designed to prepare students for purposeful lives and careers.
About the School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs (The Policy School)
Northeastern’s Policy School is at the forefront of social and policy effects in dynamic urban settings. Our degree programs, research centers and broad array of experiential learning opportunities enable our students to hone their skills and make positive impacts wherever their careers take them, from local town offices and nongovernmental organizations to national governments and international institutions.
Learn more about how you can become part of the Northeastern community.