Public Policy

Public Policy at the University of Michigan is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with the analytical, quantitative, and communication skills necessary to address complex societal issues and influence policy development at local, national, and global levels. The program offers a rigorous curriculum that combines coursework in economics, political science, sociology, law, and public administration, allowing students to gain a well-rounded understanding of how policies are formulated, implemented, and evaluated. Students are encouraged to develop a critical perspective on the political and economic contexts shaping public policies and to apply empirical methods in their analysis.

The program emphasizes experiential learning, providing opportunities for internships, research projects, and engagement with policy practitioners, enabling students to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. The faculty includes leading scholars and practitioners in the field of public policy, offering mentorship and insight into various policy areas such as health, environment, education, and urban development. Core courses focus on policy analysis, quantitative methods, ethics, and governance, while electives allow specialization in particular sectors or issues.

Students graduate prepared for careers in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, research institutions, and private sector firms involved in policy consulting and analysis. The program also serves as a strong foundation for students considering graduate studies in public policy, public administration, law, or related fields. By choosing the University of Michigan’s Public Policy program, students join a vibrant academic community dedicated to solving pressing societal challenges through innovative policy solutions and informed decision-making. The program’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and societal impact ensures that graduates are equipped to become effective leaders and change-makers in their respective fields, making a tangible difference in communities worldwide.

Students are generally in residence at the Ford School for two years (four semesters) and are also required to complete a 10-week internship in a policy-related position. The degree requires completion of 48 credit hours (most courses are three credit hours), with a total of 36 credits required within the Ford School. Additionally, the Rackham Cognate policy requires that students complete a minimum of four credits of graduate-level coursework outside their primary discipline.

All MPP students are required to complete the following core courses (26 credits):

• Politics of Public Policy (PubPol 510)
• Calculus (PubPol 513)
• Statistics (PubPol 529)
• Microeconomics A (PubPol 555) and Microeconomics B (PubPol 558)
• Values, Ethics, and Public Policy (PubPol 580)
• Public Management (PubPol 587)
• Integrated Policy Exercise (PubPol 638) – Must be completed twice or students are allowed to replace the second IPE with enrollment in a one-credit Project Skills Workshop (PubPol 778), which is offered both fall and winter semesters. 
• Quantitative Methods of Program Evaluation (PubPol 639) or  Applied Econometrics (PubPol 571)

Please note:

• Students with preparation in calculus, statistics, and/or microeconomics may waive PubPol 513, PubPol 529, and/or PubPol 555 respectively by passing waiver exams that are offered during orientation.
• If you are waived from a core course, you must complete an additional elective Ford School course. Waived courses are not counted toward the 48 credits required for the degree.

Five supporting documents are required for all applicants. Application materials must be received by January 15 for admissions consideration.

ONLINE APPLICATION

The University of Michigan strongly encourages all applicants to apply online. The master's application for the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy will be available through the Rackham Graduate School website by the second week of September. If you do not have Internet access or have extenuating circumstances, a paper application can be requested. 

PROGRAM SELECTION

Please indicate the degree for which you are applying and the appropriate number code on the application form. The Master of Public Policy (MPP) code is 00416 and the Master of Public Administration (MPA) code is 00413. Indicate whether you are applying for a combined degree or submitting multiple applications with another department.

FIVE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS MUST BE SUBMITTED

1. Essays

The Academic Statement of Purpose should be a concise essay about your professional and academic goals (500 words). The admissions committee is interested in how this graduate program will help you meet your career and educational objectives. The academic statement is uploaded on page 12 of the application under the section titled Program-Specific Information. 

A Personal Statement is also required for all applicants (500 words). This statement is meant to convey how your personal background and life experiences, including social, cultural, familial, educational, or other opportunities or challenges, motivated your decision to pursue a graduate degree. The personal statement is uploaded on page 13 of the application under the section titled Additional Information.

Both essays provide an opportunity for the applicant to convey to the Admissions Committee information that cannot be found in transcripts, letters of recommendation, test scores, or resumes. Essays should clearly explain the applicant’s reasons for wanting to pursue a Master in Public Policy or Public Administration, areas and questions of interest, and why the Ford School, in particular, is the best place to pursue these objectives. Applicants should be mindful that the statements are not only an opportunity to demonstrate their strong interest in public policy and public administration, but also to demonstrate their ability to communicate succinctly and clearly.

2. Test scores

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) aptitude test is required. Students applying for the joint JD/MPP (University of Michigan Law School and the Ford School) may submit the LSAT in place of the GRE. Students applying for the joint MBA/MPP (University of Michigan Business School and the Ford School) may submit the GMAT in the place of the GRE. Test(s) must be taken within five years of application and preferably no later than the December preceding admission. It is the applicant’s responsibility to have test results submitted to the University. (Note: When registering for the GRE or sending additional score reports, applicants should use the University of Michigan code #1839.)

3. Resume or curriculum vitae

A current resume or curriculum vitae must be submitted. Applicants who apply online should attach this under the section asking for a resume. Please do not confuse this with your statement of purpose, two separate documents must be submitted. The resume is uploaded on page 13 of the application under the section titled Additional Information.

4. Letters of recommendation

Three letters of recommendation are required and should reflect the academic and, if relevant, job capabilities and experience of the applicant. We encourage applicants to submit letters of recommendation electronically— please see the online application for instructions. Hard copy letters of recommendation are also accepted and should be mailed directly to the Ford School of Public Policy.

5. Transcripts

Please submit an official transcript from your undergraduate degree-granting institution to the Rackham School of Graduate Studies (address below), an administrative body that oversees many graduate departments at the University of Michigan. Rackham will certify your transcripts.

Uploading a scanned version of your transcript with your online application is strongly recommended. You may also upload additional transcripts from any other institution you attended. Please note: A transcript from your degree-granting institution is required, and your application may not be reviewed if this transcript is not received by the deadline.

INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS

English proficiency

Unless international applicants have completed a degree from an institution where English was the primary language of instruction, they must also submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB), or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). These results must be less than two years old. International applicants must obtain a satisfactory score on one of these tests, which are administered in numerous overseas areas. 

Affidavit of financial support

After being admitted to the University of Michigan, international students must provide an Affidavit of Financial Support in order to meet federal requirements that they have sufficient funds for graduate study in the U.S. Students will be contacted with further details by the Rackham graduate school upon admission to the university. Fellowships or financial aid supplied by the university can be included in calculations.

The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor offers a comprehensive range of financing options for students pursuing Public Policy programs. Tuition fees for undergraduate students vary depending on residency status, with in-state students paying approximately $17,000 per year and out-of-state students paying about $56,000 annually. Graduate students in related Public Policy fields may encounter different fee structures, often ranging from $25,000 to $65,000 per year. To support students financially, the university provides various scholarships, fellowships, and assistantship programs. Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and potential contributions to the university community, while need-based aid considers the applicant’s financial situation. Graduate students are encouraged to apply for departmental assistantships, which offer tuition remission and a stipend in exchange for research or teaching responsibilities. Federal financial aid programs, including students loans, grants, and work-study opportunities, are accessible to eligible students, with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) being the primary application process. The university also participates in state-specific aid programs and offers private scholarship opportunities through partnerships and external foundations. Payment plans are available to help students manage tuition payments over the academic year. Additionally, some students choose to finance their studies through external loans or sponsorships. The university's Financial Aid Office provides detailed guidance and support throughout the application process, ensuring students are aware of all available funding sources. It is recommended that prospective students review the official university website and contact the financial aid office directly to obtain the most current and personalized information regarding tuition, fees, and financial aid options.

The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor offers a comprehensive Public Policy program designed to equip students with the analytical and practical skills necessary to address complex societal issues. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating knowledge from social sciences, economics, political science, and public administration to prepare students for careers in government, non-profit organizations, or the private sector. Students have access to a rigorous curriculum that covers key topics such as policy analysis, program evaluation, economics, data analysis, and leadership. Emphasis is placed on both quantitative and qualitative research methods, enabling graduates to develop evidence-based solutions and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders. The program also encourages experiential learning through internships, research projects, and partnerships with governmental agencies and community organizations. This hands-on approach helps students gain real-world experience and build professional networks. The faculty involved in the Public Policy program are distinguished scholars and practitioners who bring a wealth of knowledge and connections to various policy fields, including urban development, health policy, education, and environmental policy. Students are supported by dedicated academic advisors who assist in customizing their educational pathway. The program typically offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees, such as Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy and Master of Public Policy (MPP). Graduates of the program are well-positioned to pursue leadership roles across multiple sectors, contributing to decision-making processes that impact public welfare. The University of Michigan's commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion is reflected in its student body and curriculum, preparing graduates to operate effectively in diverse environments. Additional resources include access to research centers, policy labs, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Overall, the Public Policy program at the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor offers a robust foundation for students aspiring to make meaningful contributions in the realm of public service and policy analysis.