Master of Public Policy - MPP

This interdisciplinary degree draws from multiple fields of study, including economics, political science, sociology, psychology, education, law, history, and public health. The Biden School MPP degree focuses on professional skills in public policy analysis, evaluation, and communication.

MPP students are educated in the well-known Delaware Model for public affairs education, where hands-on, real-world experience is a must. Classroom experience in the MPP program is supplemented by applied policy research and internship opportunities offered by the Biden School, its affiliated programs and centers, and external partners.

MPP students will be assessed through their coursework on their (1) knowledge of the public policy-making process; (2) analytic skills to be used for policy analysis, evaluation, and decision support; (3) communication and interpersonal skills (including leadership and teamwork) for working with diverse populations in and out of government; and (4) an ethical foundation for conducting professional policy research from a public-service perspective.

MPP graduates often serve in a translational role between researchers, advocates, and policymakers. They help policymakers to understand complex data and research results that should inform public policy-making, as well as stakeholder and constituent demands for public policy. 

This translational role can be served from within or outside of government, including in nonprofit organizations, consulting firms, and other private businesses. Indeed, many public policy graduates work at some point in their careers for both governmental and non-governmental organizations.

The Biden School offers a high-quality, comprehensive policy analysis education where our students benefit from the advantages of living in the first state. Our faculty, staff, and large alumni network is well-connected to professionals in state and local government, as well as local nonprofits, so our students have many opportunities for professional connections and development. 

The University of Delaware is centrally located between Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Wilmington, Philadelphia, and New York City, yet the cost of living is relatively low. It is an ideal location for students to get professional education for a career in policy analysis.