University of Michigan - Ford School of Public Policy

About this program

The Ford School’s Master of Public Policy (MPP) is a two-year program of study designed for students seeking a strong foundation of analytical skills in economic, organizational, political, and quantitative fields. Students are required to complete a 10-week internship in a policy-related position. Most students do this between the first and second years of the program.

Students may also choose to pursue a dual degree program, combining the MPP with simultaneous study in another graduate or professional school at the University of Michigan.  

• Year partnership began: 2007
• Fellowships awarded per year (average): 2-4

Application requirements

Five supporting documents must be submitted:

• Statement of Purpose and Personal Statement
• Test Score - Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or a Statement of Quantitative Preparation
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Two Letters of Recommendation
• Transcripts
• Dual degree applicants will need to fill out additional documentation

Admissions process

The Ford School uses a holistic admissions review process, considering each applicant's academic performance, professional experience (when applicable), extracurricular involvement, and commitment to advancing the public good. Admissions decisions are typically released in mid-March and include information about any fellowship awards. For additional details, please visit this link. For more details please see this link.  

Degrees awarded

Master of Public Policy (MPP)

Benefits and opportunities

Net cost is equal to tuition/fees minus fellowship value. For some universities, the fellowship value includes non-tuition/fee benefits such as health insurance or housing. See cost savings details for more.

Estimated annual cost of living: $43,582

Cost savings details

Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) who submit the required documentation and apply by January 15 are guaranteed at least a 25% tuition-only merit scholarship. Many RPCVs receive awards of 50% tuition-only merit scholarships or more based on the strength of their application. We are proud to support RPCVs as they continue their commitment to public service through graduate education at the Ford School.

Internship

The Master of Public Policy Program at the Ford School requires students to complete a policy-related internship. This internship allows students to apply knowledge and skills acquired during their studies to significant problems in the public, private, or non-profit sectors. MPP students complete the internship requirement--10 weeks of full-time (40 hours/week) work--during the summer between their first and second year of study (for dual-degree candidates, the timing may vary). 

The internship helps students clarify their career direction, gives perspective on the selection of second-year elective courses, and assists students in gaining experience and establishing networks of great value in securing employment after graduation. We have established internship partnerships with the Detroit Mayor’s Office, the Michigan Governor’s Office, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and many other local, state, and national organizations.

Other opportunities

Jobs for alumni

• Megan Levanduski,  program and management analyst (PMF), USAID
  
• Katie Collins, foreign service officer, US Department of State
  
• Kelsey Kennedy, analyst, US Government Accountability Office
  
• Kyle Murphy, policy manager, Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL)
  

Nontraditional options