Public Policy

The Public Policy program at the University of Utah offers students a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to prepare future leaders to address complex societal challenges through effective policy analysis and formulation. This program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, combining insights from political science, economics, sociology, and public administration to develop a well-rounded understanding of policy processes and their impact on communities and regions. Students engage in coursework that covers core areas such as policy analysis, public management, ethical considerations in policymaking, and quantitative and qualitative research methods. The curriculum aims to equip students with practical skills necessary for designing, implementing, and evaluating public policies across various sectors, including health, education, environment, and economic development.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities for experiential learning through internships with government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private sector partners, providing real-world insights into policy development and implementation. The program encourages critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and effective communication, fostering capable public servants ready to serve in local, state, and federal governments or to influence policy in nonprofit and private organizations. Students also benefit from faculty who are actively involved in research and practice, offering mentorship and guiding their exploration of contemporary policy issues. Graduates of the Public Policy program at the University of Utah are well-prepared to pursue advanced studies or to enter the workforce as policy analysts, advisors, advocates, and administrators committed to improving public well-being and advancing social justice. The program’s interdisciplinary focus, combined with practical skill development, makes it an ideal choice for those passionate about making a meaningful impact through policy work in diverse arenas.

Required Core Courses

(Complete 31 credit hours)

• ECON 6300 - Public Finance: Public Expenditures and Cost-Benefit Analysis 3 Credit(s)
• ECON 6380 - Law and Economics 3 Credit(s)
• PADMN 6290 - Applied Quantitative Methods in Public Policy 3 Credit(s)
• PADMN 6320 - Public Policy Theories and Applications 3 Credit(s)
• PADMN 6323 - Policy Analysis 3 Credit(s)
• PUBPL 6560 - Survey Research Methods 3 Credit(s)
• PUBPL 6563 - Program and Policy Evaluation 3 Credit(s)
• PUBPL 6900 - Public Policy Research 3 Credit(s)
• STAT 6003 - Survey of Statistical Computer Packages 3 Credit(s)
• PUBPL 6950 - Master of Public Policy Project/Capstone 3 Credit(s)
• PUBPL 6960 - Independent Study-Public Policy 1 - 6 Credit(s)

Master's Project

Students must also complete a master’s project (capstone) that requires students to apply aspects of the MPP curriculum to the analysis of a specific public policy issue. The project is begun the final fall semester with the student’s capstone chair in a one credit independent study and completed during the final spring semester in the capstone course -

• PUBPL 6960 - Independent Study-Public Policy 1 - 6 Credit(s)
• PUBPL 6950 - Master of Public Policy Project/Capstone 3 Credit(s)

Policy-Related Emphasis Area Electives

Complete 9 credit hours in areas of specialization including Family and Social Welfare Policy (with an option to complete a graduate certificate in demography), Health Policy, Community Policy, Environmental Policy, International Context of Public Policy, Education Policy, Economic Policy, or Urban Affairs Policy (with an option to complete a graduate certificate through Urban Planning).

• A bachelor's degree from a regionally-accredited U.S. college or university or from an institution recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education in their home country. The Office of International Admissions will determine if applicants with international degrees meet the Graduate School's requirement of a recognized bachelor's degree.
• At least a 3.0 or higher undergraduate weighted mean GPA on a 4.0 scale. If the undergraduate GPA is below 3.0, a GPA will be calculated for the last two years attended if schooling was done at a foreign institution, and based upon the last 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) if the student attended a U.S. institution.
• The TOEFL is required of students for whom English is a second language. We require a TOEFL pBT score of 583 on paper-based exam, 92-93 on the computer-based TOEFL iBT is required, or 7.0 on the IELTS. 
• Application must be made to The Graduate School and to the MPP program. 
• 2-3 page statement of purpose, indicating the candidate’s interest in public policy and career objectives.
• A professional resume.
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0.
• Graduate entrance exam scores (the GRE is preferred).
• Three recommendations from individuals qualified to evaluate the applicant’s academic and/or professional potential. At least one recommendation should be from a current/former professor. The MPP Recommendation Form must be used.
• Applicants are required to complete prerequisite coursework in applied statistics (sample courses at The University of Utah: FCS 3210, SOC 3112, ECON 3640, POLS 3001 and PSYCH 3000 - we cannot count 1000 level math classes for the statistics prerequisite), introductory microeconomics (sample course at The University of Utah: ECON 2010), and U.S. national government. The University of Utah course listings and descriptions are available in the Course Catalog. Prerequisites must be completed in the last 10 years with a grade of "C" or better from an accredited college or university. Please note: if you are accepted into a joint program (e.g. MPP/JD) some prerequisites may automatically be waived. Please consult the program manager for more information. In addition to the prerequisites, students are strongly encouraged to complete intermediate microeconomics before entering the program. Due to the rigorous analytic component of the MPP, it is assumed that applicants will have a strong quantitative background. Applicants lacking a solid background in economics and statistics are encouraged to strengthen their understanding of these areas prior to application.

The University of Utah offers various funding opportunities and financial aid options for students enrolled in its Public Policy programs. These options include scholarships, grants, assistantships, and loans designed to support students financially throughout their studies. Scholarships and grants are typically awarded based on merit, need, or a combination of both, and students are encouraged to apply early to maximize their chances of receiving funding. The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance on applying for federal and state financial aid programs, including FAFSA and other aid applications. Additionally, Graduate Teaching Assistantships and Research Assistantships are available, offering students the opportunity to gain teaching or research experience while receiving a stipend and a tuition waiver. The university also offers Fellowships and specific awards for outstanding students in public policy and related fields. Students are advised to explore departmental scholarships and external funding sources as well. Federal student loans are accessible to eligible students, providing low-interest options for covering educational costs, including tuition, books, and living expenses. International students can also find specialized scholarships and assistantship opportunities to help finance their studies. Furthermore, the university promotes financial planning resources, including budgeting workshops and counseling services, to assist students in managing their educational expenses effectively. Overall, the University of Utah aims to make public policy education accessible by offering a range of financial aid options tailored to diverse student needs, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder pursuit of academic and professional goals in the field of public policy.

The University of Utah offers a robust and comprehensive Public Policy program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address complex societal issues through effective policy analysis, development, and implementation. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, drawing from fields such as political science, economics, sociology, and public administration to provide a well-rounded understanding of how public policies impact various sectors and communities. Students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics, including healthcare, education, environmental policy, economic development, and social justice, preparing them for careers in government agencies, non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, or private sector consultancies.

The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, often including internships, research projects, and engagement with policymakers and community stakeholders. This experiential learning enables students to develop critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills essential for effective policy-making and analysis. The program also offers specializations or tracks in areas such as local policy, national policy, or global policy, allowing students to tailor their education to align with their career ambitions.

Faculty members are recognized experts in their fields, frequently involved in policy research and public service, providing mentorship and insights that enrich the academic experience. The University of Utah's extensive network also offers students access to diverse internship opportunities, networking events, and conferences, fostering professional growth and connections within the policy community. Graduates of the Public Policy program are well-prepared to influence and craft policies that improve societal well-being, demonstrate leadership, and advance their careers in dynamic and evolving policy landscapes.