Master of Public Policy
Shape policies that shape the future. Rowan’s public policy master’s degree program prepares you to lead change through research, analysis and practical impact in government, nonprofit and private sectors.
Why choose Rowan’s public policy program?
Whether you're launching your career or stepping into a more advanced role, Rowan University’s Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree program helps you become a more effective public servant—one who can collect and interpret data, assess policy impact and offer informed, actionable solutions that impact outcomes across public systems.
Coursework draws from political science, economics, leadership and public affairs, giving you an interdisciplinary foundation rooted in real-world application.
Our MPP degree program brings together students at all stages—early-career professionals and career changers alike—who are united by a commitment to serving communities and improving outcomes. You’ll build expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methods, learning how to design studies, analyze outcomes and support decisions with evidence. And with flexible scheduling, evening classes and options for part-time and full-time study, Rowan’s public policy master’s degree program fits into your life, not the other way around.
Key considerations
Quick Facts
Months To Complete
Credits
Application Deadlines
Fall Entry Term
Spring Entry Term
Summer Entry Term
Studying public policy at Rowan
What You’ll Learn
Over 39 credits (12–13 courses) in the MPP degree program, you’ll develop skills in research, analysis, leadership and communication that translate directly to roles in government, nonprofits, consulting and beyond. Courses are held in the evening on our Glassboro campus, making it possible to continue working while you earn your master’s degree in public policy. You can complete the program in 18 months of full-time study or two years of part-time coursework.
You’ll take core classes in quantitative and qualitative research methods, public economics, policy design and ethical leadership. Along the way, you’ll have the option to complete a faculty-guided thesis or a professional internship, depending on how you want to apply your learning. Courses are taught by faculty with backgrounds in political science, economics and applied policy, as well as professionals working in New Jersey in public policy who bring real-world experiences to the classroom.
Additionally, the MPP degree program features areas of emphasis in which you can specialize your degree alongside your interests and professional goals:
- Criminal Justice
- Diversity & Inclusion
- Education
- Emergency Management
- Engineering
- Environmental Studies
- Health & Emergency Management
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Social Change
Public policy key courses
- Introduction to Policy Analysis
- Public Finance and Cost-Benefit Analysis
- Quantitative Methods in Public Policy
- Social Policy
Note: The course information above is not official and is subject to change. For an official list of available courses, please review the Rowan University Academic Catalog.
How You'll Learn
Through hands-on projects, research opportunities and partnerships with organizations across New Jersey, you can apply what you learn in the Master of Public Policy degree program in meaningful, real-world contexts. Whether you're working with a nonprofit, local government office or advocacy group, Rowan ensures that you're not just learning how to analyze policy—you’re actively contributing to it.
You can choose to pursue a traditional thesis project or complete a professional internship that aligns with your goals. At the end of the program, all students complete a final capstone experience that demonstrates both depth and relevance. Past projects have addressed real policy challenges, like a recent student-led analysis of the Lenape Nation’s petition process for federal recognition.
Admission Requirements
To apply to Rowan’s MPP degree program, submit the following items. Once your application is complete, Rowan University's Office of Admissions will review it and follow up with you on your next steps. There may be additional actions or materials required for admission to the program.
- Completed application
- $65 non-refundable application fee
- Bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) from an accredited institution of higher learning
- Minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 2.75 (on a 4.0 scale)
- Official transcripts from all colleges attended (regardless of number of credits earned)
- Current professional résumé
- Typewritten statement of professional objectives
- In your personal statement, provide reasons for pursuing this program. Describe how you might use this program to advance your career.
- Two letters of recommendation
Tuition and Aid
Earning your public policy master’s degree is an investment in your future—and we’re here to help make it affordable and accessible. Rowan offers financial aid, scholarships and funding opportunities for graduate students.
Learn more about graduate financial aid.
Careers and outcomes
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