Master of Public Policy in Boston United States | Northeastern University

The Master of Public Policy (MPP) serves as the gold standard for public policy practitioners. This program focuses on examining data and relevant information to address societal challenges, craft effective policy solutions, and measure program impact. Northeastern University's MPP curriculum is committed to shaping policies that foster fairer, more inclusive, and sustainable urban communities.
Offering flexible learning formats—online, on-campus in Boston, or in Arlington—this degree enables students to engage in diverse perspectives, seek faculty guidance, and collaborate effectively regardless of location. MPP alumni pursue careers as policy analysts, researchers, consultants, program assessors, and decision-makers across government, nonprofit, and corporate sectors. Northeastern's MPP adopts a hands-on, research-driven methodology. Participants acquire core competencies in analytical reasoning, assessment techniques, statistics, economics, and strategic decision-making. They also master cutting-edge technological skills like Big Data interpretation, data visualization, programming (including R and Python), GIS applications, and AI. Beyond technical expertise, the MPP curriculum emphasizes social equity, economic fairness, and racial justice to develop the interpersonal abilities employers value.
Every MPP course integrates practical case studies, with partnerships across public and private sectors providing experiential learning through co-ops, capstone projects, and internships.
Program Competencies
Graduates will demonstrate the ability to:
Evaluate information critically, solve complex issues, and make informed judgments while understanding policy frameworks and political systems
Utilize analytical methods to gather, process, and interpret data, including statistical methodologies
Participate effectively in policy development and clearly communicate findings to varied stakeholders
Evaluate policies, research approaches, and implementation strategies through an equity-focused perspective