Office of Career Advancement
The OCA supports students and alumni seeking to develop rewarding professional careers.
Why Harvard Kennedy School?
Find out why Harvard Kennedy School provides a unique experience and education.
Home > Degree Programs > Master's Degrees > Master in Public Administration > Curriculum
Curriculum
Harvard Kennedy School Curriculum
Teaching and Learning at HKS
Classes at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University (HKS) are taught by the case method, the more traditional lecture format, or a mixture of both. Students work together in small groups on projects and will have assistance from course assistants, teaching fellows, and faculty members in a collaborative and non-competitive working environment.
Methodological Areas at HKS
The HKS curriculum is built around the concept that future leaders and policy makers need to be adept in analytical, management, and leadership skills in order to serve the public good. The three foundational methodological areas at HKS are:
- Quantitative Analysis
- Strategic Management
- Leadership and Advocacy
Whether as distribution requirements for graduation or as part of a core curriculum, these three areas are the foundation upon which the HKS education is built. No matter what policy area students focus on while studying, HKS graduates depart the school with a powerful complement of skill to increase their effectiveness in working in their chosen field.
Policy Areas at HKS
Teaching and research at HKS are organized around a framework of policy areas that reflect the evolving research of the HKS faculty, the needs of policy makers, and the interests of the HKS student body. Please see HKS Policy Areas for listing.
MPA2 Course Requirements
The MPA2 student’s mandatory requirements are minimal: one course from each of the school’s three methodological areas, and two courses from one of the HKS Policy Areas.
The remainder of the 16 courses a student must take during their two years in residence is up to the student, with guidance from faculty and administrators.
Concurrent Degrees
Students in the MPA2 program frequently pursue concurrent degrees allowing them to work toward two degrees simultaneously.
Please review Joint and Concurrent Degrees for further information.
print
email