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At the Martin School, we believe that studying public policy is one of the most powerful ways for students to turn their passions for leadership, service and advocacy into careers that make a difference. Our public policy program prepares students for a wide range of meaningful career paths — whether in law, government, nonprofit leadership, policy research, communications or other fields. Our graduates leave with the critical thinking, analytical and communication skills needed to succeed in today’s fast-paced world. Many also continue their education in law school or other graduate programs. 

7:1 Students to Faculty

Close instruction with a diverse faculty is at the core of our educational commitment.

#4 Public Budgeting and Finance

We have ranked highly in US News and World Report for years.

$6.5M $6.5 Million in grant funding in the last five years!

Our faculty deliver ground-breaking research at the highest levels.

#26 Public Affairs graduate programs

according to US World and News Report 2024

Academic Programs

All Programs Online, Certificates, Undergraduate Minor, & more!

You can earn Master's degree or Certificate at your own pace, online. Our programs are designed to meet you where you are, and train you to launch a career in public service.

Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy B.A.

A major or minor in Public Policy will give you the skills you need to offer applied, analytical solutions that impact the world. 

Master of Public Administration M.P.A.

Master the skills required for advanced careers across the public administration, government, nonprofit management, and public affairs opportunities. 

Master of Public Policy M.P.P.

Master applied analytical solutions to further analyze policy and use data to drive progress within an organization. This degree is ideal for those wanting to advance professionally and practically.

Master of Public Financial Management M.P.F.M.

Designed in mind with professionals who are currently in the workforce and hoping to gain practical skills in    public budgeting and finance to advance in their career while maintaining employment.

PhD in Public Policy and Administration Ph.D.

This degree is designed for those who are interested in carrying out sophisticated policy research and meaningful careers in academia, government agencies, and organizations of their choosing.

Latest News

Martin School student becomes one of Kentucky’s youngest-elected city council members

In November 2024, Ian Vansteenbergh became one of Kentucky’s youngest-elected city council members! Ian credits the Martin School's public policy program education to be a practical and  powerful path for students to turn their passions for leadership, service and advocacy into careers that make a difference right now AND after graduation. Ian's path was featured on Lex18 and later picked up by WKYT. Check out the video below to hear more of Ian's experiences! 

2024 December Commencement: Meet us at the Grad Gathering!

Hey December Graduates! Join our staff at the Grad Gathering - immediately following commencement! We'll have a going away present for our graduates and would love to take some group pictures before you go. 

2025 Alumni & Friends Banquet (Save the Date!)

SAVE THE DATE!  You are invited to join the Martin School of Public Policy and Administration for the annual Alumni and Friends Banquet on the third Friday of February, 2025. Light refreshments will be provided, and we will announce our newest Distinguished Alumnus and induct new prominent leaders into the Kentucky Public Service Hall of Fame.  Event Date & Time: February 21st, 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm Event Location: Lyric Theatre (300 E Third St, Lexington, KY 40508) REGISTRATION INFORMATION WILL BE RELEASED AT A LATER DATE.

Seminar: Jordan McAllister

Predicting Child Maltreatment in South Carolina and Kentucky using County-level Indicators

University of Kentucky's Martin School partners with Volcker Alliance on new initiative.

Volcker Alliance Launches “Service to Service,” A New Initiative To Connect Veterans and Military Families to Meaningful Careers in Public Service...

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