Master of Public Policy (MPP)

HSSP MPP Advancement Program

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Are you interested in a career focusing on the intersection of health care policy and social justice? The HSSP MPP Advancement Program is an exciting opportunity for Brandeis undergraduates who want to maximize their time at Brandeis, attend the Heller School at a reduced cost, and get the initial work experience that employers desire, and that makes the graduate school experience even more valuable. Admitted HSSP students take two graduate-level classes in the MPP program during their senior year and then work for one or two years before completing the MPP program as a full-time graduate student for three semesters.

Not only do HSSP/MPP students reduce the cost of graduate school by a whole semester; they are eligible to receive a 50% tuition scholarship for the semesters they are enrolled as a full-time Heller student. 

While students are responsible for securing their employment, Heller will provide career coaching and introduce students to a network of partners, such as City Year and AmeriCorps. Additionally, students benefit from an assigned adviser/mentor in their senior year who will keep in touch with them during their work experience year, including a mid-point check-in either in person or virtually.

Curriculum

Two Heller MPP core requirements taken in the senior year will count toward the undergraduate degree (as general electives) and toward the MPP degree. In addition, two HSSP courses (American Health Care and Introduction to Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Population Health) will be applied toward the MPP degree. Students would then need two fewer electives and would only need to take 12 additional courses for the MPP degree, graduating in three semesters rather than four upon their return. See below for a curriculum chart.

Brandeis Undergrad Senior Year

Fall

  • Historical and Contemporary Developments in Social Policy (4 credits)

Spring

  • Social Policy Analysis (4 credits)

Experiential Year(s)

Full-time Employment

  • Students will work a minimum of one year.

MPP Year One

Fall

  • Research Methods and Evaluation (4 credits)
  • Applied Regression Analysis (4 credits)
  • Electives (8 credits)

Spring

  • Econometrics (4 credits)
  • Economic Theory and Social Policy (4 credits)
  • Electives (8 credits)

MPP Year Two

Fall

  • Diversity, Inclusion and Equity in Social Policy (4 credits)
  • Policy and Program Implementation (4 credits)
  • MPP Capstone (4 credits)
  • Public Finance (4 credits)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply?

Interested HSSP students should begin by discussing their fit for the program with an HSSP faculty member. Students will apply by June 1st of their junior year. After receiving their undergraduate degree, students in this program will work for a minimum of one year.

Do I have to take the GRE?

The GRE is typically required, but in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the MPP Program is extending the GRE test-optional policy for the Fall 2022 application cycle.

Will I receive help securing employment for the experiential year?

While we can’t guarantee a placement, the Heller Career Development Center will work with you to explore opportunities and to connect you with the many Heller partners including City Year and AmeriCorps.

What happens during the transition year?

Students will be assigned advisers/mentors in their senior year who will keep in touch with them during their work experience year. Students will participate in a mid-point check-in either in person or via Skype if necessary.

Is there a minimum or maximum amount of time I need to spend working?

You must work a minimum of one year with the possibility of extending it to two years.

Once admitted do I have to maintain certain standards as an undergraduate?

Once accepted, students will normally be expected to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.25 and a grade of B or better in the required courses.

How much will it cost?

You will pay your regular undergraduate tuition through your senior year. When you return to Heller you will pay the Heller tuition for three semesters and will be eligible for the financial aid that all Heller students normally receive.

What types of jobs will this degree qualify me for?

Graduates from Heller's MPP program have gone on to work for state and federal government, think tanks and nonprofit organizations as directors of policy, policy analysts, executive directors, and research associates, to name just a few.

For more information, contact: