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The Master of Public Policy (MPP) is a specialized graduate program designed to equip students with critical thinking and analytical capabilities for tackling pressing regional policy challenges, including border security, environmental conservation, and natural resource management. With its strong regional focus, the curriculum empowers graduates to drive impactful policy research that shapes their local communities and state.
This MPP degree opens doors to diverse public sector careers, ranging from government roles at federal, state, and municipal levels to positions in nonprofit organizations and private consulting firms as policy researchers and analysts. The curriculum prioritizes policy evaluation, formulation, and problem-solving through both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. By completing the MPP at the University of Arizona, students gain enhanced policy comprehension and development skills, valuable for launching or advancing careers in both public and private sectors. The program's academic intensity also provides excellent preparation for doctoral studies in related fields.
Our program's core purpose is to cultivate a diverse cohort of graduate students—including working professionals and aspiring public servants—to become effective leaders and administrators in government and nonprofit sectors. We develop students' analytical, communication, and management competencies while instilling public service values like ethical conduct, responsibility, and respect. The curriculum emphasizes inclusive leadership with a focus on equity and social justice. We fulfill our mission through innovative instruction, policy research, and community engagement.
The MPP's two-year curriculum comprises 42 credit hours structured into three components: 24 core credits, 15 elective credits, and a 3-credit capstone project. Program advisors collaborate with students to select electives that align with their specific policy interests and career aspirations.