Brown University’s 16-month, online master of public policy equips experienced professionals to analyze, implement and lead policy solutions — applying global insight directly to the challenges you face in your work.
If you’re already working in policy, you know the hardest part isn’t understanding the issues, it’s navigating the complexities that shape them. Brown's online master of public policy prepares you to approach those complexities with stronger analysis, sharper strategy and the ability to collaborate, influence and lead in real-world policy environments.
You’ll deepen your understanding of how economic, political and social forces shape policy decisions, and how those forces play out in areas that matter to you. At the same time, you’ll build the analytical and strategic engagement skills needed to respond to complex challenges in real time, applying what you learn directly to your work as you advance your impact and leadership.
Why Brown?
Brown University’s Thomas J. Watson Jr. School of International and Public Affairs is uniquely embedded within a University ecosystem that values openness, collaboration and diverse perspectives. Students learn directly from faculty whose research shapes policy debates and develop practical skills through applied experiences, including policy simulations, research labs, field projects and engagement with alumni in international and public policy careers.
The Watson School’s interdisciplinary approach draws on economics, political science, history, sociology and other fields, giving students a global perspective on how social, political and economic forces shape policy decisions. Leadership and strategic skills are integrated throughout the curriculum, preparing graduates to take on greater responsibility, drive change and make an impact in the real world.
This program offers the following graduate degree:
- Master of Public Policy (MPP)
Attend an Info Session Speak to an Advisor
Curriculum & Format
Throughout the curriculum, you'll build a comprehensive policy toolkit that spans foundational theory to applied practice, bringing current policy challenges from your own organization into the classroom. You'll develop fluency in quantitative data analysis, economic reasoning and policy problem-solving, while learning to navigate complex social and economic challenges at home and around the world.
Leadership is integrated throughout the program, empowering you to make an impact from day one. You’ll develop foundational competency in areas like strategic communication and stakeholder engagement, and cement your knowledge in a dedicated leadership course. Graduates are prepared to deliver evidence-based solutions, communicate persuasively to diverse audiences and lead with confidence and integrity.
Flexible, Online Format
What sets this program apart is it is delivered 100% online — a distinction among peer institutions in this space. Designed to work with your career and responsibilities, our program gives you access to an Ivy League master’s education, from where you are in life and your career, while applying what you learn directly to your work in real-time.
— Key Takeaways
- Identify key components of the public policy ecosystem and the factors that shape policy process decisions across different global contexts.
- Implement rigorous quantitative methods for analyzing data and inform policy decisions.
- Understand relevant frameworks, theories and models that drive policy formation and change across disciplines like economics, political science, history, anthropology and sociology.
- Apply leading practices in communication, leadership and project management to navigate complex, real-world problems in public policy, public administration and international affairs
— Career Impact
Outcomes
Careers in public policy span government, nonprofits and consulting, offering diverse pathways to drive meaningful impact. Brown’s online master of public policy supports your career growth through tailored resources, workshops and advising designed for working professionals. Students also gain access to Brown's powerful alumni network and benefit from the University's signature commitment to ethical, interdisciplinary learning — preparing you to lead with purpose, navigate complexity and make informed decisions that shape policy and organizations.
Application Information
Upcoming Application Deadlines
Spring 2027
Early Action Deadline: July 15, 2026
Priority Deadline: September 15, 2026
Final Deadline: October 15, 2026
Semester Starts: January 27, 2027
APPLY
Application Requirements
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university and three years of full-time employment are required prior to the start of the program. This program is ideally suited for currently employed, working-professionals.
If you have any questions regarding the application process for this program, please email onlinemasters_admissions@brown.edu
Application Requirements
GRE Subject:
Not required
GRE General:
Not required
TOEFL/IELTS:
All international applicants whose native language is not English must submit an official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score.
Exceptions may be made for application with a degree from an institution where English is the sole language of instruction or from a University in the following countries: Australia, Bahamas, Botswana, Cameroon, Canada (except Quebec), Ethiopia, Ghana, Ireland, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, New Zealand, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Sierra Leone, Swaziland, Tanzania, Gambia, Uganda, United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales), West Indies, Zambia).
The TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition and the IELTS Indicator exam are accepted. The online Master of Public Policy program recommends a minimum score of 100 (iBT). The corresponding minimum IELTS score is 7.
Official Transcripts:
Required. All applicants may upload unofficial transcripts for application submission. An international transcript evaluation (WES, ECE, or SpanTran) is required for degrees from non-U.S. institutions for application submission. Official transcripts & evaluations are required for enrolling students prior to the start of their first semester classes.
Letters of Recommendations:
(3) Required. Should be submitted by individuals from professional or academic backgrounds. At least one recommendation letter should be provided from a professional supervisor/manager.
Personal Statement:
Our program’s mission is to cultivate and elevate the next generation of global leaders to address pressing societal challenges. How have you addressed policy issues or societal challenges in your past professional experience? Additionally, how do you envision Brown’s online Master of Public Policy will elevate your career trajectory? Please explain how the elements of our online MPP align with your overall professional vision. There is no minimum word count, but we encourage you to stay below 1500 words.
Resume/CV:
Required. Applicants are required to have three years of full-time professional employment experience, preferably in a public policy.
Additional Materials:
$100 Application Fee.
*Apply by the Early Action Deadline and we’ll waive your $100 application fee.
Additional Requirements:
INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS
- Language Proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS if applicable)
- Transcript Evaluation (if applicable)
PREREQUISITES:
At least one semester of college-level statistics. A grade of B or better with completion within the last five years is preferred. Applicants who are missing the required prerequisites are strongly encouraged to upload an additional statement outlining their plan for completing the prerequisite(s) prior to starting the program and/or how their professional work experience supplements any missing prerequisite requirement.
RESTRICTIONS AND LICENSING REQUIREMENTS:
To comply with OFAC restrictions and licensing requirements, Brown University currently does not offer online programs to individuals physically located in the following areas: Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, and the Crimea, Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine. Please note that this limitation is location based, as well as applies to all citizens of these countries, regardless of location, who are ordinarily resident in these countries. View more information pertaining to embargoed country regulations for online courses.
Tuition and Funding
Graduate Tuition & Fees:
Please visit the Student Financial Services Office for up-to-date tuition rates.
Most students are self-supported through a combination of scholarships, loans, outside funding and/or assistantships.
Merit-Based Scholarship:
The online master of public policy offers limited merit-based scholarships covering up to 50% of tuition costs. All applicants will be reviewed for eligibility and no additional application is required.
Completion Requirements
The program consists of eight courses or 32 academic credits.
All courses are delivered online, and will have both required asynchronous and optional synchronous components to support student learning.
The program can be completed in as little as 16 months (four consecutive semesters, including summer) on a full-time basis. Full-time status is considered enrollment in two courses per semester. Learn more about the standard course sequence and required courses here.
Leadership
Contact and Location
Watson School of International and Public Affairs
Location Address
Providence, RI 02912