Public Policy

The Public Policy program offers the Master of Public Policy (M.P.P.) degree. The M.P.P. program is a two-year, full-time program with a required internship in the summer between the two academic years. The program prepares students for careers in public service by combining training in quantitative techniques and economic analysis with instruction in the political, legal, and organizational environments in which policy is made and implemented. We also offer several combined degrees (with Law, Business, Education, Marine Science, and Computational and Applied Mathematics).

Admission

For full consideration for admission and financial assistance, applications and all supporting materials, including transcripts, and three letters of recommendation must be received by January 15. GRE scores are optional. Applications submitted after the program’s deadline may be evaluated if space is available.   

To be admitted to the program, a student must demonstrate potential for success through his or her undergraduate record, and letters of recommendation. No single undergraduate major is required, but students will be expected to have completed coursework in the principles of economics. In addition, intermediate microeconomics and introductory statistics are strongly recommended. Students whose preparation is deficient may be required to take advanced undergraduate courses before matriculating.  

If English is not your first language, your Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores are required and must be sent directly to William & Mary by the Educational Testing Service or IELTS. The TOEFL/IELTS requirement can be waived for applicants who will have received a degree from a college or university in which English is the primary language of instruction.  A transcript required as evidence of successful instruction in English as a primary language.