Best Online Master of Public Policy (MPP) Programs in Pennsylvania

2025 Best MPP Programs in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is home to several prestigious universities that offer MPP programs. These programs blend rigorous academic coursework with hands-on policy experience and focus on a wide range of policy areas, including economic development, education policy, public health, and environmental sustainability, all crucial to Pennsylvania’s growth and future.

Pennsylvania’s MPP programs offer students access to some of the field’s leading scholars and practitioners. Additionally, these programs typically offer real-world experiences through internships, research opportunities, and capstone projects, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge to actual policy challenges. Graduates are well-equipped to enter careers in the public and nonprofit sectors or to become policy advisors or analysts in consulting firms.

Note: PAP rankings are based on factors like program cost, accreditation, reputation, and faculty expertise, using data from trusted sources like IPEDS and NCES. Learn more about our methodology

#1

University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus

Pittsburgh, PA

The University of Pittsburgh’s MPP combines analytical rigor and leadership training in a hybrid format designed for public service professionals.

Programs:

Master of Public Policy and Management

#2

York College of Pennsylvania

York, PA

York College of Pennsylvania’s MPP program focuses on policy analysis and leadership development in a flexible hybrid format for working professionals.

Programs:

Master of Public Policy and Administration

Concentrations:

Local Government

#3

Villanova University

Villanova, PA

Villanova University’s MPP program integrates policy analysis and leadership skills in a hybrid format designed for professional growth.

Programs:

Master of Public Administration

Concentrations:

City Management
Nonprofit Management

#4

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA

Lehigh University’s Master of Public Policy focuses on policy analysis and quantitative methods, delivered on campus without GRE/GMAT requirements.

Programs:

Master of Public Policy

#5

Drexel University

Philadelphia, PA

Drexel University’s Master of Public Policy is a hybrid program featuring flexible schedules, case study research, and no GRE requirement.

Programs:

Master of Public Policy

Concentrations:

Certificate programs
Graduate minors

#6

Duquesne University

Pittsburgh, PA

Our fully online Master of Arts in Public Administration provides students with a flexible 36-hour curriculum, focusing on accessible education with no GRE or GMAT required.

Programs:

M.A. in Applied and Public Sociology

#7

Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania

Shippensburg, PA

Shippensburg University’s Master of Public Administration is a 36-credit campus program emphasizing practical public management, with GRE/GMAT potentially required.

Programs:

Master of Public Administration

#8

East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania

East Stroudsburg, PA

The Master of Science in Management and Leadership (Public Administration & Policy) at East Stroudsburg University features leadership models and policy analysis, offered on-campus.

Programs:

Master of Science in Management and Leadership - Public Administration & Policy

Concentrations:

Public Administration & Policy

#9

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Kutztown, PA

Kutztown University’s Master of Public Administration (Criminal Justice) is a hybrid program featuring applied problem-solving in public management with no GRE requirement.

Programs:

Master of Public Administration

Concentrations:

Criminal Justice

#10

Pennsylvania State University-World Campus

University Park, PA

Penn State’s Master of Public Policy (Extremism and Conflict) offers online hybrid learning with a focus on policy analysis and hands-on experience, requiring no GRE.

Programs:

Master of Public Policy

Concentrations:

Extremism and Conflict
International Policy and Data Science

Fastest Online MPP Degree Programs in Pennsylvania

For students looking to complete their MPP degree quickly, Pennsylvania offers several quickest programs that enable students to complete their studies in an accelerated time frame while still receiving a comprehensive education in public policy.

These fastest programs provide students with a thorough understanding of policy analysis, public management, and data analysis. Students will gain the analytical skills necessary for leadership roles in government, nonprofits, or consulting firms, especially in economic policy, healthcare reform, and urban planning.

Affordable MPP Degree Programs in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania offers several cost-effective MPP programs that allow students to pursue a graduate degree in public policy without accumulating significant debt. These programs are ideal for students who want to work in public service, nonprofit management, or policy consulting, but need to keep their tuition costs manageable.

These affordable programs offer flexible study options that accommodate full-time students and working professionals. The programs focus on public policy areas such as economic development, healthcare, and education, which are central to Pennsylvania’s current and future policy needs.

Admissions Requirements for Public Policy Programs in Pennsylvania

The application process for MPP programs in Pennsylvania typically includes several key degree requirements to ensure that applicants are academically prepared for graduate-level study. Common admissions criteria include:

• A completed bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• A minimum GPA (typically 3.0 or higher).
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
• A statement of purpose outlining the applicant’s career goals and interest in public policy.
• GRE or GMAT scores (if required by the program).
• A resume or CV highlighting relevant professional experience.

Most programs also require an application fee to be submitted with other materials. The admissions committee evaluates each applicant based on academic performance, professional background, and alignment with the program’s focus areas. International students may need to submit additional documentation, such as proof of English proficiency and visa materials.

Curriculum and Coursework

MPP programs in Pennsylvania offer a broad range of courses designed to provide students with the skills needed to become effective public policy leaders. Core courses typically include:

• Public Policy Analysis
• Leadership and Organizational Behavior
• Financial Management and Budgeting
• Program Evaluation Techniques

Students can specialize in areas such as economic development, public health, education policy, or environmental sustainability. These programs also offer elective courses that allow students to focus on specific policy areas of interest. Students are encouraged to engage in real-world experiences through internships, research assistantships, and capstone projects, providing valuable hands-on experience in the field of public policy.

Programs typically require students to complete a set number of credit hours to earn their MPP degree. Many programs also offer online and hybrid formats to accommodate working professionals.

Careers in Public Policy in Pennsylvania

Graduates of MPP programs in Pennsylvania are well-prepared for careers in both the public sector and the private sector. Some common career paths include:

• Policy Analyst: Researching and analyzing policies to provide actionable recommendations for government agencies, nonprofits, or private organizations.
• Legislative Aide: Supporting lawmakers with research, bill drafting, and stakeholder communications.
• Urban Policy Planner: Developing policies to address challenges in urban areas such as housing, transportation, and infrastructure.
• Healthcare Policy Advisor: Advising on policies related to healthcare access and public health services.
• Public Affairs Specialist: Managing communication strategies for public organizations or nonprofits.

Graduates can work in public organizations, consulting firms, nonprofit organizations, or government agencies. Many MPP graduates also pursue roles in public service, contributing to policies that improve the lives of Pennsylvania residents and others across the U.S.

Advantages of Online MPP Programs in Pennsylvania

Online MPP programs in Pennsylvania offer students the flexibility to complete their graduate degree while balancing work, family, and other commitments. These programs provide the same rigorous academic experience as traditional on-campus programs but with the added benefit of studying remotely.

Key advantages include:

• The ability to complete coursework online, saving time and money on commuting.
• Flexible study options that allow students to pursue their degree full-time or part-time.
• Access to Pennsylvania’s network of schools of public policy affairs and administration, providing opportunities for networking, collaboration, and career development.

These online programs ensure students gain the analytical skills necessary for public service and public management roles. Students will be prepared to tackle Pennsylvania’s unique public policy challenges, from healthcare reform and economic development to urban planning and education.

Sources

• Temple University
• Penn State University
• University of Pittsburgh

Acknowledgment

This content was created with insights from Pennsylvania-based universities, public policy experts, and local government organizations. Their contributions have been instrumental in shaping this guide to Pennsylvania’s MPP programs.