Finding solutions to the issues that demand public action and impact diverse communities requires time, dedication, and skill. Whether those issues involve the environment, housing, health, social justice, or education, it’s crucial for those interested in making positive change to have access to a variety of learning experiences. That’s why the McGeorge School of Law offers an MPP program that provides not only policy and law classes but also hands-on learning opportunities, allowing students to gain relevant experience in the field that excites them most.
Within this Master of Public Policy program, students can choose between three main concentrations: Nonprofit and Social Capacity Management, Environmental and Water Policy, and Public Policy Advocacy. With both full- and part-time options available, students can work on their degree within flexible online courses and still enjoy the social benefits of class time through in-person Saturday sessions. Additionally, because McGeorge School of Law is based in Sacramento, students will find themselves in close proximity to the California State Capitol, with access to a variety of government agencies and advocacy groups. For those who want to begin networking before graduation, the location couldn’t be better.
How You’ll Learn
The MPP curriculum is broken down into a total of 39 units, with six of those dedicated to your chosen concentration. Taught in a hybrid model–meaning both online and in-person–these classes have been thoughtfully designed to help each student get the most out of their time at McGeorge. Flexible online coursework, which includes applied policy research, is rounded out with six or eight in-person Saturday sessions per semester, facilitating invaluable interaction with instructors and peers.
MPP Program Outcomes
While students’ career options vary, the skill sets required to pursue them are closely related. At McGeorge, the MPP program is focused on building strong analytical, communication, and critical thinking skills; policy and legal knowledge; and the ability to problem-solve, both independently and in groups. These skills ensure that students are able to assess a situation, come up with a range of ideas, and implement solutions to real-world problems.
Students learn how to analyze and address problems that society is likely to face in the future. Working to solve problems to build a better world sometimes requires the ability to forecast the next big issue rather than focusing solely on the present one. While completing the program, students have the option to pursue an internship or externship to gain experience in the field they’re most interested in. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn how to anticipate and tackle problems from experienced professionals.
Let’s take a look at just a few ways graduates can make a difference in the world after graduation.
What You Can Do To Make a Difference
One of the many benefits of completing a Master of Public Policy degree is the wide range of organizations you can work with across sectors and levels of influence. Whether you’re interested in working directly with communities or shaping policy from within institutions, your career path might include:
- Serving in legislative offices or policy think tanks to support lawmaking and government reform
- Collaborating with municipal or regional governments to implement and evaluate public programs
- Joining environmental organizations dedicated to conservation and sustainability
- Founding or managing nonprofit organizations that address targeted community issues
- Working with international bodies such as the United Nations, World Bank, or NGOs on global development and diplomacy
- Partnering with advocacy groups, research institutes, or philanthropic foundations to promote equity and social justice initiatives
Wherever your path leads after graduation, meaningful change starts with a rigorous educational program that empowers you to explore your interests and advance your professional goals. With a Master of Public Policy degree from McGeorge School of Law, you can turn your passion for advocacy into a meaningful, successful career. Take a look at the program requirements today to learn more about getting started.