Academics / Programs

Master of Public Policy & Management

Advance your career 

The Master of Public Policy and Management degree is designed for mid-career professionals who want to advance their skillset by working on real-world problems with top-notch scholars. Whether to strengthen their skills to grow in their current job, or to begin a new path of public service, MPPM students graduate with the knowledge needed to excel in government, nonprofit, or public service-oriented work in the private sector.

Those eligible for the Master of Public Policy and Management degree should have a minimum of five years of professional experience beyond an entry-level position. Our mid-career degree accounts for this knowledge gained through work experience, which is why MPPM students are required to take 10 courses or 30 credit hours, substantially fewer than our other masters programs.

The four required courses are designed to blend theory, skills, and each student’s professional interests. Coursework can be completed online, in person, or a mix of both to maximize flexibility for students needing to balance work, school, family, and community commitments.

Online Program Information

As an online MPPM student, you can complete the 30-credit degree in just five terms. By taking courses during the spring, summer, and fall terms, you can earn your degree in just 20 months. 

  • Enroll in two web-based courses (for a total of 6 credits) per term
  • Follow a set curriculum of online courses taught by GSPIA faculty members
  • Receive a faculty advisor and a full-time enrollment counselor who will be able to assist you by phone, Skype, or email 
  • All students will pay in-state tuition, regardless of residency

Download MPPM Online Plan of Study »

On-Campus Program Information

As an on-campus MPPM student, you have access to the full menu of courses GSPIA offers. You can take evening classes that meet one day per week on a pace that suits your work schedule. You will take a total of ten courses, four of which are required and six of which are electives, allowing you to tailor the program to your interests and pick up the skills that you find most valuable to your career. 

Download MPPM On-Campus Plan of Study »

How to Apply

To apply for the MPPM online program, you must submit the following. (Note that a GRE score is not required for online MPPM applicants.)

  • A résumé.
  • A personal statement outlining your background and your goals for the program (about two double-spaced, typed pages).
  • Two letters of recommendation from past or present supervisors (from paid or volunteer positions you have held).
  • Copies of your undergraduate transcripts (and graduate transcripts, if applicable). You may submit unofficial photocopies at the time of your application; official copies are required if you are admitted and choose to enroll.
  • A nonrefundable $50 application fee.

If you do not meet these qualifications, please explore our other degree programs.

Additional International Student Requirements

If you’re an international student who is not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you must submit a TOEFL or IELTS score, unless you have completed a degree at a regionally accredited U.S. university, or you are a citizen of an approved English-speaking country.

Tuition and Fees

There is no tuition difference between in-state and out-of-state students for the online MPPM program. Learn more about tuition and fees.

MPPM students who are employed full-time by a local, state, or federal government agency are eligible to receive a 20% tuition discount. All full-time government employees are eligible, including public school district employees and active-duty military personnel (who are not already receiving tuition benefits from the military).

Out-of-State Students

The University of Pittsburgh is a participating institution in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA), an interstate agreement that makes it easier for students to take online courses in another state.

As a result, pursuant to regulations and policies set forth by SARA, Pitt is eligible to enroll students from all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Note: California, Florida, and Massachusetts are currently not participating members of SARA; however, Pitt is still able to offer online education and field experiences in these states.

Employment Data – Class of 2020
15%
Local/State Government
7%
International Government
67%
Nonprofit/NGO
11%
Private

The GSPIA Experience

Hear how our MPPM degree helped Justin Forzano grow his nonprofit organization and its impact.