Master of Public Policy
Master in Public Policy
The Martin School's 37-hour MPP is designed for students considering a career in policy research or pursuing a PhD; it overlaps in some ways with the MPA, but emphasizes data analysis and evaluation. An MPP can help develop the competencies needed to address complex policy questions via quantitative analysis within all levels of government and nonprofits. This program also builds a foundation for students wishing to pursue a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration.
The MPP program is taught by Martin School’s core faculty members and adjunct faculty members, with additional electives being offered by joint faculty members from various departments on campus. The program is classroom-based and conducted on the University of Kentucky's main campus in Lexington. Courses are offered in the late afternoon and evening, allowing for part-time work during the program. Please contact our Director of Graduate Studies, Dr. Caroline Weber, with any questions.
Curriculum
Prerequisites
In preparation for the program, students should have taken an introductory microeconomics class (ECO 201 at UK), algebra and statistics. It is possible to take statistics concurrently in the first semester of MPP coursework, but it will not count towards the MPP degree.
Four Components
The MPP curriculum consists of four major components:
- the policy core
- an area of concentration,
- an internship or equivalent experience, and a
- capstone project
Area of Concentration
The area of concentration consists of two related courses that apply the concepts of the policy core to a particular subject or policy area. The following areas of concentration are common among MPP students.
- Non-Profit Management
- Public Financial Management
- Policy Analysis
- Social Policy
In consultation with the DGS, students can create their own concentrations with relevant courses from other departments.
Policy Core
All students take 28 hours of policy core courses. The core provides the analytic and conceptual foundations necessary for successful entry into and advancement within public and nonprofit agencies. The core covers the areas of economics, finance, budgeting, management, statistics, research methods, policy formulation, and policy analysis.
First Year, Fall
PA 624 GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS (3)
PA 692 ECONOMETRICS FOR POLICY ANALYSTS (3)
PA 795 SPECIAL TOPICS IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION (1) - Math Prep (1 credit hour)
First Year, Spring
PA 622 PUBLIC PROGRAM EVALUATION (3)
PA 652 PUBLIC POLICY ECONOMICS (3)
PA 690 PUBLIC POLICY ANALYSIS OVERVIEW (3)
Total: 9 credit hours
Second Year, Fall
PA 642 Public and Non-Profit Organizational Theory and Behavior(3)
Guided Elective (choose one) or free elective
- PPL 575 - EDUCATION FINANCE AND POLICY (every other fall) (3)
- PPL 583 - TAX POLICY (spring) (3)
- PPL 584 - ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY (spring) (3)
Second Year, Spring
International Students
Does the Martin School have funding available for MPA or MPP?
-
We do not have funding available for spring 2024. Funding applications for fall 2024 will open in December 2023
Can the Martin School waive the application fee?
- We do not have any fee waivers available
If my instruction was in English, how do I get a TOEFL/IELTS waiver?
Once you apply, your institution should email the appropriate Graduate School admissions officer with proof of English instruction
What is the minimum GPA for a Master's degree?
A 2.75 GPA is required.
Minimum language scores
| TOEFL iBT | 1837, Program Code 99 | 79 |
| IELTS | University of Kentucky Graduate School, Lexington, Kentucky | 6.5 Overall Mean Band Score |
| Duolingo | University of Kentucky Graduate School | 115 (May be evaluated by an ESL professional) |
Marina Byrd
"The Martin School MPP program prepared me for my career by providing the writing, communication, and analytical skills necessary for working as an analyst. The professors ensure that their students understand how to apply these skills to real-world examples to be ready for a job after graduation. The Martin School also helps students build on skills learned in the classroom by connecting them with internships and jobs with many different types of government entities and nonprofits."
Important Dates
January 15: Martin School application deadline to be considered for funding
March 15: Martin School notification letters regarding financial support sent out for fall semester
April 15: Graduate School deadline for international applications for fall semester
One month prior to classes starting (fall): Deadline for domestic students to apply
Starting your Master's Degree
- Transcripts (unofficial are acceptable for the application but official ones will be required by the Graduate School)
- Personal statement (indicate your public service background and why you want to obtain an MPA)
- CV or resume
- TOEFL/IELTS for international students
- GRE not required
