Core Courses

The MPP is a two-year degree program that follows the traditional academic year from late August to May. The degree requires 56 credits over two years in residence. The core curriculum fits into three categories: concepts, methods, and tools. 40 credits are required, including an introductory policy foundations class and a social justice requirement. A minimum of three courses is required in a concentration, allowing for four credits of required and 8 credits of optional electives. A final capstone policy analysis is also required, as part of the 40 core credits.

Course Sequence

Social Justice Requirement

As part of the Heller School for Social Policy and Management's commitment to social justice, all students take HS 412f, Social Policy and Management Through the Lens of Equity. This 2-credit module course creates a common foundation for all Heller students.

The Master of Public Policy program enhances this course with a further Social Justice Requirement. All MPP students take at least one other course to examine a topic in more depth.

Below is a list of sample courses that can be used to fulfill the Social Justice Requirement. 

• HS 212a, Contemporary Issues in Gender and Public Policy
• HS 216f, Policy Perspectives on Women, Work, and Inequality
• HS 273f, Law and Social Justice: Gender Equity Policies and Litigation
• HS 307a, Immigration Policy and Human Rights
• HS 309f, Policy Approaches to Gender-Based Violence
• HS 314f, Race and Stratification in the U.S. Economy
• HS 320f, LGBTQ+ Justice: A History of Pride, Prejudice, and Policy in the United States
• HS 322b, Sociological Perspectives on Housing Disparities: Race and Stratification
• HS 334f, Disability Policy: Intersections with Health, Poverty, Education and Family Policy
• HS 346b, Policy Perspectives on Criminal Legal System Disparities
• HS 528f, Law and Social Justice: Constructions of Race and Ethnicity and Their Consequences
• HS 534b, Perspectives on Economic and Racial Equity