Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Regarding the Five-Year Bachelors/MPP Program

When are applications due?

Applications are due February 5, 2010 and admissions decisions will be announced no later than April 1, 2010.

Is the program open to students from any undergraduate major?

Yes, undergraduate students majoring in any department may apply. The program will be altered slightly to permit the participation of engineering students, who have much less flexibility in their course schedules than most Arts and Sciences students.

Is there an undergraduate major's program in public policy?

No. This is an accelerated master's program, however an undergraduate major is in the works.

Is this program only for those who seek civil service careers with the federal government?

Definitely not. The program aims to prepare students for a wide variety of policy-oriented careers in the public, non-profit, and private sectors.

Is this program open to students with both domestic and international policy interests?

Yes, most definitely!

What are some examples of organizations that regularly hire MPP graduates?

Examples include Congressional committees, the EPA, the GAO, the CBO, the CRS, cabinet departments, the Federal Trade Commission, various state and local government agencies, the World Bank, and non-profits in many policy sectors, including environment, health, education, and international development.

Do the five public policy courses that students must take in the 4th year count toward the 120-credit requirement for the B.A. degree?

Yes, they do.

Do the five public policy core courses that students must take in the 4th year count toward the fulfillment of undergraduate major or minor requirements?

No, they do not.

How will students manage to satisfy their undergraduate major or minor requirements if the five public policy courses taken in the 4th year do not count toward them?

First, students should have at least five open class slots in the fourth year to fulfill their remaining major or minor requirements. Some students in the program may have even more room in their fourth year schedules due to advance placement credits. Students may also take classes necessary for the satisfaction of undergraduate major or minor requirements during summer sessions or J-term. Students may also opt to take a heavier class load in a given semester. Finally, the Director and Associate Director of the Program have the discretion to permit well prepared students to "place out" of selective fourth year public policy courses. For example, an economics major who has received high grades in intermediate microeconomics, public finance and related courses may be permitted to place out of the Economics and Public Policy (A) course. Similarly, a student with a strong math background would be permitted to place out of Research Methods and Data Analysis (A). Students will be informed about their eligibility for selective place outs when admissions decisions are announced in March.

Can I use my undergraduate thesis for my advanced policy analysis master's project?

No, the two theses must be separate products.

Are there any prerequisites for admission into the program?

There are no formal prerequisites, but it is useful to have taken at least one course in politics and/or economics. It is also useful to have taken a basic course in calculus and/or statistics. The two most important factors in admissions decisions are a strong academic background and a commitment to a career in public policy.

What if I have additional questions?

Please contact Edith Simms, Director of Admissions & Student Affairs: This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it   or call           434-243-4383.