University of Massachusetts Amherst

The School of Public Policy’s undergraduate and graduate programs help students prepare to solve wicked societal problems for the common good and become leaders in public service. SPP courses offer active, engaged learning to prepare students for careers in government, research organizations, nonprofits, social enterprises, and the private sector.   

At the undergraduate level, SPP offers a bachelor’s in public policy, as well as an eight-course public policy certificate. At the graduate level, we offer a one-year master’s in public policy, including a 4+1 option open to outstanding Five College students; a two-year master’s in public policy and administration; and dual degrees in business administration, higher education, public health, and regional planning. Social justice in teaching and research is integrated into all SPP degree programs, to facilitate a deeper understanding of the role that public policy plays in the lives of each member of society and to prepare graduates for careers at the forefront of social change.