Join a network of public policy leaders at SMU
Master of Public Administration and
Master of Public Policy Programs
Make a substantial impact in the public sector with a Master of Public Policy (M.P.P.) or Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) degree.
SMU’s online public sector master’s degrees are a perfect fit for individuals who are passionate about making positive global changes through public policy and administration.
Located in the heart of Dallas, SMU offers M.P.P. and M.P.A. students unique access to Texas’s government offices and key policy figures, as well as the George W. Bush Institute and other public policy institutions.
Both programs emphasize engagement, with coursework that includes virtual live lectures, project-based assignments and two capstone projects. There are also two on-campus immersions at the beginning and end of each program that encourage students to form career-long relationships with fellow public sector professionals.
Gain the skills needed to succeed in public sector with a master’s degree from SMU. Learn more about our master’s programs below or download a program brochure.
M.P.A. vs. M.P.P.: What’s the Difference?
M.P.A.
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Focus on implementation of policies and the day-to-day operations of public organizations. -
Develop skills in management and administration of public sector organizations. -
Coursework in leadership, organizational development and public finance.
M.P.P.
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Focus on research, data analysis and evaluation skills. -
Develop technical skills in policy analysis, creation, evaluation and implementation skills. -
Coursework in public policy, research methods and statistics.
Master of Public Policy
Format: Online, part-time
SMU’s online M.P.P. focuses on public policy analysis and research skills. Program graduates can pursue roles as political scientists, statisticians and economists.
Master of Public Administration
Format: Online, part-time
SMU’s online M.P.A. focuses on management and leadership skills. Program graduates can pursue roles as general operations managers, public relations managers and park specialists.
Request information
To download a program brochure and learn more about the Master of Public Policy or the Master of Public Administration offered by SMU, please fill out the form. You can also get in touch with an enrollment counselor directly by calling us at 855-741-1818.