Master of Public Policy

Learn how to evaluate existing and proposed policies with the Master of Public Policy (MPP) in Temple University's College of Liberal Arts. Students gain an understanding of the political and institutional contexts in which policies are implemented at the federal, state and local levels. The MPP program combines real-world experience with rigorous academic research to help students learn practical skills and make vital contacts needed for successful careers in the public or nonprofit sectors. Learning takes place inside and outside the classroom through internships, guest speaker series and team projects with actual clients.

The program’s dynamic faculty incorporate their professional expertise in the classroom. Many currently serve as budget and finance managers, consultants and policy analysts, leaders of nonprofit organizations, policymakers, and senior policy advisors.

In addition to preparing graduates for roles in government agencies or in private nonprofit organizations, the MPP is also tailored for students who already hold public or private sector positions and are seeking supplemental training and credentials to develop their careers. 

two students are engaged in a conversation in a study room with their laptops open in front of them.

Our Community

The College of Liberal Arts at Temple comprises many academic disciplines and research areas. Now more than ever, an interdisciplinary liberal arts education is invaluable for your future pursuits. It offers the opportunity to further push your drive to create real change in the world, here at Temple and beyond. In this graduate program, you’ll work closely with diverse faculty members who are highly esteemed in their field and with a curious, passionate community of peers.  

Program Format & Curriculum

Students have three years to satisfy their requirements for the Public Policy program, which can be completed on a full- or part-time basis.

Choose to take in-person classes on Temple’s campus in Center City, Philadelphia after 5 p.m. or online including a combination of scheduled evening virtual classes and asynchronous assignments.

The 36-credit curriculum comprises core courses, elective courses and an Internship in Public Policy course. 

Core courses include the following. 

  • Economic Decisions for Public Policy
  • Policy Analysis
  • Program Evaluation
  • State and Local Budgeting
  • Statistics for Public Policy

Learn more about Public Policy program requirements.

Related Graduate Degrees

  • Master of Public Policy / Master of Public Health* (dual degree)

*College of Public Health

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, this Master of Public Policy offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2023–2024 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,053.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,449.00 per credit

You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

LA-PPOL-MPP

Additional Program Information