Penn State’s School of Public Policy delivers programs and curriculum to students and professionals from any major or field of study with a variety of different policy interests. Students who want to analyze public problems and recommend improvements to help execute good policy will work with interdisciplinary and collaborative faculty at a research-intensive university. Students in the School can also utilize Penn State’s extensive alumni network. The network provides students with alumni, faculty, and partners who build a foundation for learning and career opportunities.
Undergraduate Programs
Public Policy and Leadership Across Sectors (PPLAS) Minor
The Public Policy and Leadership Across Sectors (PPLAS) minor introduces students to the policymaking process, the practice of policy analysis, and public service values. Recognizing the importance of cross-sector collaboration as part of the policymaking process, the PPLAS minor also equips students with the necessary leadership skills to develop a multi-sector approach to solving complex public policy issues.
The minor is ideal for those who aspire to become future leaders in government, the private sector, and non-profit organizations. Students who enjoy interdisciplinary approaches, critical thinking, and problem-solving across sectors will find this minor valuable in developing the knowledge and skills necessary for impactful leadership in a rapidly changing world.
Integrated Undergraduate/Graduate Degree
The accelerated integrated undergraduate/graduate (IUG) Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree program provides an opportunity for academically strong students to complete a bachelor of science or bachelor of arts and a master’s degree in public policy in approximately five years of study. Through the IUG program, students can save money, enter the workforce sooner, and drive real-world results.
Penn State students in any area of study approaching their senior year also have the option to take up to fifteen credits toward their MPP degree while completing their B.A. or B.S. degree.
Next Gen Leadership Academy
The Next Gen Leadership Academy is an innovative leadership program offered by the Penn State School of Public Policy that aims to inspire Penn State undergraduate students from all majors to explore public service careers and equip the next generation of civic leaders with the skills they need to make an impact in their communities and beyond.
Penn State’s Next Gen Leadership Academy is one of over 15 programs nationwide that form part of the Volcker Alliance’s Next Generation Service Corps, a ground-breaking initiative that draws diverse, talented young people into public service. The Next Gen Service Corps benefits students nationwide, particularly students from underrepresented backgrounds, by opening the door to new career pathways and overcoming long-standing informational and systemic barriers.
Graduate Programs
Master of Public Policy (MPP)
Our professional master’s degree program trains students in the analysis, creation, adoption, implementation, and advocacy of policy. We are teaching tomorrow’s leaders to find solutions and implement policies so that they will make a lasting impact. The core curriculum combines substantive knowledge of the policy process and training in quantitative policy analysis with leadership development and the practical application of hands-on experience in the internship and capstone project.
Graduate Public Policy Minor
Penn State’s Master graduate minor in Public Policy is for students who want to analyze public problems and recommend improvements to help execute good policy. The program is open to students from any graduate major with a variety of policy interests.