Master of Public Policy and Master of Public Administration in Arlington

Foundational course exploring the principles and practices of public administration with emphasis on federal agency operations and governance.

Examines the problems and techniques relevant to effective management of a public agency in a complicated and often turbulent political environment. Topics include legislative relations, media relations, role of the courts, unions and advocacy groups, policy implementation and evaluation, and setting and working with high standards of integrity.

Comprehensive exploration of budgeting and financial management practices in public sector organizations, with particular attention to federal budget processes.

Rigorous introduction to statistical methods for policy analysis, preparing students to utilize statistical tools and data visualizations to produce high-quality, data-driven policy memos that are standard in federal policy work. Using real-world datasets from federal agencies and international organizations, students develop the analytical and communication skills essential for evidence-based decision-making.

Comprehensive training in qualitative and quantitative research methods essential for policy research and evaluation, using datasets and case studies from international organizations and the federal government. Students learn to design rigorous research that informs policy decisions in real-world governmental and international contexts.

Explore the strategic dimensions of policy development and implementation in complex organizational and political environments.

Develop analytical skills for evaluating policy alternatives and assessing policy impacts, with applications to federal and international policy challenges.

Experiment with rigorous methods for evaluating the effectiveness of public sector programs and policies, with emphasis on federal initiatives under the Evidence Act and international evaluation frameworks and practices.

Comprehensive introduction to the role of economics in public policy. Students learn economic ideas and methods, along with their applications to a wide set of public policy issues related to the federal government.

Integrative capstone experience synthesizing knowledge and skills developed throughout the program, often focused on real-world federal or international policy challenges.