Overview of Degree Programs

Master in Public Policy (MPP) : The two-year MPP program provides future public leaders with the conceptual framework and practical skills necessary to succeed in public service. The MPP core requirements are built upon strong foundations in three methodological areas: analysis, management, and leadership.  

Master in Public Administration/International Development (MPA/ID) : The two-year MPA/ID program, the Harvard Kennedy School's newest program, is designed to prepare the next generation of leaders in international development. It is an economics-centered, multi-disciplinary program, combining rigorous training in analytical and quantitative methods with an emphasis on policy and practice.

Two-Year Master in Public Administration (MPA2) : The two-year MPA2 is a flexible program designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of established professionals and dual-degree students seeking further leadership responsibilities in the public, nonprofit, and private sectors.

Mid-Career Master in Public Administration (MC/MPA) : The one-year MC/MPA is an intensive eight credit program, preceded by a one-month summer program exclusively for mid-career professionals. The MC/MPA is designed to increase the knowledge and skills of well established, high-performing professionals, who seek to enhance their public service careers or to move from the private sector to a leadership position in either the public or non-profit sectors.  Prospective students for the MC/MPA program from developing, newly industrialized, and transitional economy countries must apply through the Mid-Career Master in Public Administration Edward S. Mason Program.

Joint & Concurrent Degree Programs: Two-year masters degree candidates of the Harvard Kennedy School may choose to pursue a combined degree with a number of professional schools at Harvard University or other approved universities. Joint and concurrent programs allow students to complete two degrees in one fewer year than is normally required.

For information on the doctoral degrees offered at the Harvard Kennedy School, please visit the Doctoral Programs web site.

Executive Programs: The Harvard Kennedy School offers a wide variety of Executive Education programs, focusing on those topics that help better prepare leaders in public affairs. Please click here for information on the Executive Programs and application information for these non-degree programs.