Public Affairs

The Bachelor in Public Affairs at Princeton University is a comprehensive interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary to address complex societal challenges. This innovative curriculum integrates coursework from political science, public policy, economics, history, and sociology, providing students with a well-rounded understanding of public institutions, governance, and social dynamics. Students are encouraged to explore various policy areas such as economic development, environmental sustainability, social justice, and urban planning, fostering a nuanced perspective on public affairs issues.

The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships, research projects, and engagement with community organizations, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts in real-world settings. Faculty members are leading experts in their fields, offering mentorship and fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and ethical considerations in policymaking. The curriculum also offers opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging students to develop innovative solutions to pressing societal problems.

Graduates of the Public Affairs program are prepared for diverse careers in government agencies, non-profit organizations, international institutions, and private sectors involved in public policy and administration. They are equipped to analyze policy impacts, communicate effectively with stakeholders, and lead initiatives that promote social welfare and sustainable development. The program’s rigorous academic environment and focus on practical experience aim to cultivate future leaders committed to making a positive difference in society.

Courses:

The curriculum of the M.P.A. program includes six required core courses that address skills and techniques needed for the systematic study of public policy problems. The courses cover political analysis, quantitative methods, and economic and behavioral analysis. 

Additional Requirements:

Policy Workshops

Graduate policy workshops are a unique part of the Woodrow Wilson School graduate curriculum.

Policy workshops provide students with an opportunity to use the analytical skills they have acquired in the first year in the program to analyze complex and challenging policy issues, usually for real clients. Each workshop consists of 8 - 10 students who work in teams to evaluate a policy challenge.

The workshops emphasize policy implementation, and it is this emphasis that distinguishes them from regular courses. The goal of the workshops is to understand a policy issue in great depth and to make policy recommendations that are both creative and realistic, given the relevant institutional and political constraints.

Integrated Policy Exercise (IPE)

In January, at the end of the first semester, first-year M.P.A. students are required to take part in a policy project called the Integrated Policy Exercise, or IPE.

The IPE requires students to apply the skills they acquired in the fall term analytic courses. They are given briefing materials to review in advance and are then required to submit a comprehensive memo in response to a set of specific policy questions. The IPE is a trial run for the qualifying examination or QE1.

Qualifying Examination 1 (QE1)

In May, at the end of the first year, students are required to take a qualifying exam, the QE1, a graded exercise that closely parallels the IPE.

The QE1 requires an integrated use of analytical skills acquired in the core curriculum during the first year, and it also includes behavioral analysis of the policy issue.

Qualifying Examination 2 (QE2)

Second-year students are required to take and pass a second qualifying exam (QE2) in May in their chosen field of concentration.

• Application Fee: $90
• Statement of Academic Purpose
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Recommendation Letters
• Transcripts
• Fall Semester Grades
• Prerequisite Tests
• English Language Tests
• Statement of Financial Resources
• GRE : The general test is required for all Ph.D., M.P.A., and M.P.P. applicants.
• Course list. 4 page policy memo. Applicants applying to a joint degree program are required to submit a 2 page joint degree statement. Applicants are required to select a field when applying.

The Princeton University Public Affairs program offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for graduate programs are set annually and vary depending on the degree level and specialization. For Master’s programs, the estimated tuition costs are approximately $60,000 per year, while doctoral studies may have different fee structures, often supplemented by departmental or university funding. Princeton University provides extensive financial aid packages, including fellowships, scholarships, and teaching assistantships, aimed at making education accessible regardless of students’ financial backgrounds. Applicants are encouraged to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and relevant institutional forms to determine eligibility for need-based aid. Many students benefit from generous stipends that cover tuition, health insurance, and living expenses, particularly those enrolled in Ph.D. programs, where research assistantships often form a significant part of financial support. The university also offers external funding opportunities and partnerships with government agencies and foundations that can help offset costs. Additionally, students should consider costs beyond tuition, such as books, supplies, housing, and personal expenses, which vary depending on lifestyle and location. Princeton’s financial services office provides guidance on budgeting, scholarship applications, and loan options, ensuring students are well-informed about their financial planning. International students are also eligible for most financial aid programs, with specific application procedures in place to assess their needs. While the university strives to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, funding availability can fluctuate, making early application and thorough documentation essential. Overall, Princeton’s commitment to affordability and financial support aims to eliminate financial barriers and foster a diverse, inclusive academic community committed to public affairs and policy leadership.

Public Affairs at Princeton University offers students a comprehensive interdisciplinary education designed to prepare them for leadership and impactful careers in government, nonprofit, and private sectors. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of policy processes, societal challenges, and institutional structures. Students engage with coursework across political science, economics, sociology, and law, gaining a well-rounded perspective on public issues. The curriculum typically includes foundational courses in American government, comparative politics, public policy analysis, and quantitative methods, complemented by advanced seminars and research projects that foster analytical rigor and policy formulation skills. Faculty members are distinguished scholars and practitioners, providing mentorship and real-world insights. The program encourages experiential learning through internships, research opportunities, and partnerships with government agencies and NGOs, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical contexts. Graduates of the program often pursue careers in public service, advocacy, journalism, or continue their education in graduate schools. The program's focus on leadership, ethics, and civic responsibility aims to prepare students to address complex societal problems with innovative and informed solutions. With a strong alumni network and dedicated career services, Princeton’s Public Affairs program supports students throughout their academic journey and into their professional lives. Overall, it seeks to cultivate knowledgeable, responsible, and engaged citizens equipped to make meaningful contributions to society.