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Home > Degree Programs > Admissions > Overview of Degree Programs > Program Eligibility Requirements
Program Eligibility Requirements
Each of the Harvard Kennedy School master's programs has a different character. Part of that character is the background and experience of the students admitted into each program. Please review the prerequisites for academic and work experience below to discover the program best suited for you.
Master in Public Policy (MPP)
Academic Prerequisite
Bachelor's degree. Some knowledge of college-level economics, statistics, and calculus is preferred.
Work Experience
Not required, but at least 2-3 years full-time professional experience preferred.
Master in Public Administration/International Development (MPA/ID)
Academic Prerequisite
Bachelor's degree with at least one university-level course each in microeconomics and macroeconomics, and one university-level course in multivariable calculus (usually the third course in a university calculus sequence). Please see the MPA/ID FAQ page for more information on prerequisite coursework.
Work Experience
Work experience is strongly preferred. The strongest MPA/ID applicants have at least 2-3 years of professional experience in the field of international development, preferably in a developing country.
Master in Public Administration (MPA2)
Academic Prerequisite
Bachelor's degree and substantial graduate-level coursework similar to MPP curriculum or relevant master's degree.
Work Experience
3 years full-time professional work experience at time of application.
Please note, you will not be considered for admission if you do not meet both the academic and work experience requirements.
Mid-Career Master in Public Administration (MC/MPA) and Mid-Career Master in Public Administration (MC/MPA) Edward S. Mason Program
Academic Prerequisite
Bachelor's degree.
Work Experience
7 years full-time relevant professional work experience by June 30 of year of enrollment. Competitive candidates for the Mason Program typically 14 years or more of work experience.
Note: Applicants to the MC/MPA program from a developing, transitional economy or a newly industrialized country must apply through the Master in Public Administration Edward S. Mason Program.
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