Graduate Programs
Graduate Programs
At UVA Batten, we’re redefining public policy education by focusing not just on analysis, but on the real-world results — solving society’s most pressing problems. Our multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving and emphasis on ethics reinforce our focus on how leadership works, why context matters in decision-making and which actions lead to tangible results.
Master of Public Policy
Our two-year, full-time Master of Public Policy program focuses on the impacts of policymaking — addressing society’s most urgent problems. We teach and cultivate effective, value-based leadership so our graduates can make significant strides toward becoming the dynamic leaders the world demands.
- 2 Years
- Full Time, In-Person
- Students with an undergraduate degree by the time of matriculation
Accelerated Master of Public Policy
Our Accelerated Master of Public Policy allows current UVA undergraduates from any major outside of Batten to earn both a bachelor’s degree and Master of Public Policy in a total of five years of coursework.
- One additional year after completing baccalaureate's degree
- Full Time, In-Person
- UVA undergraduate students from any major outside of Batten who will have earned 90 credit hours by the time of matriculation. Students will have successfully completed and earned a C or higher in prerequisites by August 1, 2026.
Dual Degrees
Our dual-degree programs, forged in the spirit of collaboration and tenacity, allow students to spend less time earning multiple degrees and more time putting their multidisciplinary knowledge into action. For each dual degree program, prospective students must apply to both schools and be accepted through the standard admissions process of each.
- Varies
- Full Time, In-Person
- Prospective students must apply to both schools and be accepted through the standard admissions process of each.
Graduate Certificate in Public Leadership
The UVA Batten Graduate Certificate in Public Leadership provides vigorous training in the core competencies needed to lead effectively in the public sector. Graduates emerge equipped to to drive ethical, evidence-based decisions and ensure their ideas have lasting impact through message framing and the psychology of persuasion.
- One semester (full-time) or over 2-4 semesters (part-time)
- In-Person, Virtual
- Students with an undergraduate degree by the time of matriculation.
Graduate Certificate in Public Policy
UVA Batten’s Graduate Certificate in Public Policy is designed to provide vigorous training in the core competencies needed for public policy research and analysis, with the flexibility needed to fit with your schedule and workplace demands. And if a professional degree is in your future, our certificate programs allow you to earn credit towards a Master of Public Policy at Batten.
- One semester (full-time) or over 2-4 semesters (part-time)
- In-Person, Virtual
- Students with an undergraduate degree by the time of matriculation.