Shape policies. Change futures. Start at Michigan.
MASTER OF PUBLIC POLICY (MPP) and MASTER OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS (MPA)
Your journey to public service leadership starts here!
Are you driven to make a difference—eager to tackle society’s toughest challenges and create positive change for your community and the world? Building a successful career in public service leadership requires the right preparation, strong support, and meaningful growth opportunities.
At the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy, our Master of Public Policy (MPP) and Master of Public Affairs (MPA) programs are designed to help you turn your passion for service into action. Through an evidence-based curriculum, a vibrant and supportive community, and hands-on learning that immerses you in real policy work from day one, you’ll develop the knowledge, experience, and network to lead across sectors. Guided by expert faculty and connected to an engaged alumni and employer network, you’ll join a tradition of Ford School graduates advancing policy, leading organizations, and serving the public good across the nation and around the world.
“The Ford School is unique in that you can feel both completely at home yet challenged to push beyond your comfort zone to think and engage more deeply than you ever thought you could. At Michigan, I believe you find unparalleled passion and a deeply held commitment to discover, achieve, and most importantly, to serve."
—Chelsea Davis (BA '15/MPP '19)
of MPA graduates said their degree was crucial to career success.
Source: NASPAA Survey, 2018.
Why choose the Ford School’s MPP or MPA programs?
At the Ford School, we nurture leaders dedicated to the public good. Gain the insights and skills you need to lead effectively and make a meaningful impact, guided by expert faculty at one of the world's top policy schools.
Legacy of leadership
Prepare to lead with the Ford School's distinguished history of excellence in public policy education.
Curriculum designed for real-world impact
Develop critical skills in policy analysis, leadership, and communication through interactive learning and practical applications.
Renowned faculty and U-M connections
Learn from renowned faculty and tap into the expansive Michigan network to enrich your professional journey.
Top-ranked policy school. World-class institution.
social policy program in the U.S.
2027 U.S. News and World Report
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2027 U.S. News and World Report
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2026 U.S. News and World Report
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2027 U.S. News and World Report
What you will learn
In our top-ranked residential graduate programs, you will:
- Build advanced skills in policy analysis, leadership, and public management
- Strengthen your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and compellingly
- Apply analytical tools and evidence-based methods to address real-world policy challenges
- Integrate ethics and public values into policy design and decision-making
- Gain hands-on experience tackling pressing issues through practical and engaged learning
- Customize your coursework and deepen expertise in the areas that matter most to you
- Connect with a collaborative network of peers, distinguished faculty, and Michigan alumni
The MPP is a two-year program offering broad, foundational training in public policy for early-career and mid-career professionals. The MPA is a one-year program designed for experienced professionals seeking to enhance their policy leadership and management skills.