The Master in Public Administration in International Development Program combines rigorous training in economics and quantitative methods with an emphasis on policy and practice.
By Max Glanville MPA/ID 2027
I wouldn’t trade my experience as a Master in Public Administration in International Development (MPA/ID) student for anything. I am able to study interesting topics taught by incredible teachers alongside a fantastic cohort. And when I’m not studying, there are so many opportunities to get involved in the broader academic, professional, and social life of Harvard Kennedy School.
If you’re thinking about joining the MPA/ID Program, keep reading! This post is for you.
What you will study
The MPA/ID Program has a strong core curriculum. You will complete a graduate-level sequence in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and statistics to gain the core skills you need as an economist.
You will also learn how to apply these skills in real-world development settings through two courses that demonstrate how the micro- and macroeconomic theories you’re learning shape real economic outcomes. In advance of class, you’ll read a case study, and then during class, the professor will lead an insightful discussion about how to solve this real problem.
You’ll also have the opportunity to take electives across Harvard University if you have the time and capacity. A few of my friends are taking language classes at Harvard College or electives at Harvard Business School. I’m taking an elective at HKS this semester. I’m a little busier than last semester, but it’s manageable.
The connections you will make
In my opinion, the MPA/ID cohort is the best part of the program. There are about 70 of us from all over the world, each with our own experiences and expertise. My classmates are kind, intelligent, passionate, inclusive, hard-working, and fun. Imagine you’re in high school again and you’re able to hang out with your friends all day—but, this time, you can discuss development challenges, share experiences from your home countries, and support each other’s professional dreams. That’s what being in the MPA/ID Program is like.
I recently hung out with some mates from my class, and I was reflecting afterwards that none of us were from the same country. I’m from Australia and was with classmates from France, Sweden, India, Pakistan, Nepal, China, the United States, and Japan. Not only is that such a cool part of my personal life—because now I can visit my friends in these countries and see these places through the eyes of a local—but it’s also beneficial on a professional level. In the future, in whatever career I may pursue, I will have connections around the world. The MPA/ID alumni network is unmatched.
“The MPA/ID cohort is the best part of the program. There are about 70 of us from all over the world, each with our own experiences and expertise.”
Max Glanville MPA/ID 2027
The opportunities you will have
HKS is all it’s cracked up to be—and more. If you’re interested in health policy, there is likely a world-leading health policy expert here. The same could be said for industrial policy, labor policy, intelligence, urban economics, international relations, and climate change—and these professors’ doors are always open.
HKS also offers a wide variety of events and activities to choose from, so much so that it can sometimes feel overwhelming. I’m involved in some of the School’s seminars and study groups, which are small groups that meet several times each semester to discuss a specific subject. I’m currently in two study groups: one focused on impact investing in emerging market economies led by a visiting fellow, and another on rethinking economics, where speakers help us understand how our economic models are deficient. These groups are a great way to connect with students who have similar interests and learn from experts in an intimate way.
And socially, if you have an interest, there are many student organizations you can join! I’m in the Australia and New Zealand Caucus (the best caucus, in my opinion) and the Casteless Caucus, where we organize events about caste.
I’ll leave you with this
HKS will not only prepare you for your next job, but it will prepare you for your entire career ahead. The School gives you the technical skills to be an intelligent and curious analyst, and the critical thinking and leadership skills to be a manager or CEO. You’ll restart your career armed with the knowledge, skills, and network to make a real difference. Who wouldn’t want that?
MPA/ID Program
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