M.A. in Counseling in Educational Setting
The M.A. in Counseling in Educational Settings at Rowan University is a comprehensive p...
Master of Public Policy
Glassboro
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The Master of Public Policy (M.P.P.) program at Rowan University is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary graduate program designed to cultivate skilled leaders and public servants capable of navigating the complexities of policy analysis and implementation. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in core public policy principles, complemented by opportunities for specialization in areas such as Criminal Justice, Diversity & Inclusion, Education Policy, Emergency Management, Engineering and Public Policy, Environmental Policy, Health Policy, and Social Change, or through an interdisciplinary track. Taught by a blend of Rowan faculty and experienced practitioners from the New Jersey public policy community, the program aims to provide students with valuable field experience and in-depth research opportunities, preparing them for influential roles in government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. The program is designed to be flexible, accommodating both full-time students and working professionals with evening classes.
Curriculum: The M.P.P. program requires the completion of 39 graduate semester hours (12-13 courses). The curriculum is structured around 21 required core semester hours, including courses such as Introduction to Policy Analysis, Quantitative Methods in Public Policy, Public Finance and Cost-Benefit Analysis, Social Policy, and a Capstone in Public Policy. Additionally, students complete 6 semester hours of either a Public Policy Internship or a Thesis in Public Policy. The remaining credits are dedicated to electives, allowing students to specialize in one of the defined policy areas or to pursue an interdisciplinary track that aligns with their professional interests.
Research Focus: The Master of Public Policy program at Rowan University places a strong emphasis on research and rigorous analytical skills. The curriculum includes dedicated courses like "Quantitative Methods in Public Policy" and "Public Finance and Cost-Benefit Analysis" that provide students with the tools for formal program evaluation and data-driven analysis. Students are encouraged to engage in in-depth research, culminating in either a thesis or a capstone project. Faculty members, with their diverse research interests in economics, political science, and policy, guide students in exploring complex policy matters, producing evaluations, case studies, and statistical models to test policies and inform decision-making.
Industry Engagement: The M.P.P. program at Rowan University actively integrates practitioners and members of the New Jersey public policy community into its faculty, ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant to real-world policy challenges. The program's emphasis on field experience through an internship option provides students with valuable hands-on learning opportunities and networking connections within government agencies, think tanks, non-profit organizations, and consulting firms. This strong connection to the professional policy landscape helps prepare graduates for immediate contributions to their chosen fields.
Global Perspective: While the program has a strong focus on policy within New Jersey and the U.S., it inherently incorporates a global perspective by addressing universal policy challenges and methodologies. The curriculum may touch upon international examples in courses like "Environmental Policy" or "Health Policy." Furthermore, the skills developed in policy analysis and research are globally transferable, preparing graduates to work in international non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international organizations, or private sector companies with global operations that are impacted by public policy. The interdisciplinary nature of the program encourages students to consider diverse perspectives when analyzing policy issues.
Location
Glassboro
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 19150
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $65
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 70 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 50 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Rowan University offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically aimed at supporting international students in their academic pursuits. Understanding that studying abroad can be a significant financial investment, Rowan provides merit-based scholarships, awards, and grants to help ease the financial burden and reward academic excellence and leadership potential.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students at Rowan University may be eligible for merit scholarships based on their academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other criteria. These scholarships can range from partial to substantial tuition awards and are typically renewable for multiple years, provided students maintain satisfactory academic progress.
Global Academic Excellence Scholarship: One of the key awards available to incoming international undergraduate students is the Global Academic Excellence Scholarship, which recognizes outstanding academic records and exceptional leadership qualities. This scholarship helps reduce tuition costs and encourages high-performing students to join Rowan’s diverse community.
Departmental Scholarships and Awards: Many of Rowan’s individual colleges and departments offer specialized scholarships for international students pursuing degrees in specific fields such as business, engineering, communication, or health sciences. These awards are often competitive and based on academic merit, portfolio submissions, or departmental recommendations.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: For international graduate students, Rowan provides assistantships and fellowships that offer tuition remission along with a stipend in exchange for teaching or research support. These positions not only help finance graduate education but also provide valuable professional experience and academic networking opportunities.
Graduates of the M.P.P. program at Rowan University emerge with a highly developed skillset in policy analysis, research, quantitative methods, and strategic thinking, making them well-prepared for diverse and impactful roles across various sectors.
Policy Analyst: Researching, formulating, and evaluating the effectiveness of policies for government agencies, think tanks, or non-profit organizations.
Program Manager/Coordinator: Overseeing the planning, implementation, and evaluation of policy-related programs and initiatives within government or non-profit sectors.
Government Affairs Specialist/Director: Monitoring legislative changes, analyzing proposed regulations, and advocating for specific policy positions on behalf of organizations in the private or public sector.
Legislative Aide/Assistant: Supporting lawmakers in policy development through research, data analysis, drafting legislative proposals, and preparing briefings.
Budget Analyst: Evaluating budget proposals and financial plans within government agencies or non-profit organizations to ensure responsible resource allocation and compliance.
Public Affairs Specialist: Managing communication between an organization and the public, crafting press releases, preparing speeches, and designing public affairs campaigns related to policy.
Management Consultant (Public Sector/Policy Focus): Providing expert advice to government agencies, non-profits, or private companies on improving organizational effectiveness, strategy, and policy implementation.
Non-profit Director/Manager: Leading and overseeing operations, fundraising, program development, and outreach efforts for non-profit organizations focused on social, environmental, or community issues.
Data Policy Specialist: Developing data governance frameworks, analyzing big data to inform policy decisions, and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations in an increasingly data-driven policy landscape.
Urban/Community Planner (Policy Focus): Contributing to the development and implementation of land use plans and community development strategies, often integrating policy analysis to address urban and regional challenges.
