MS Public Policy and Management (MSPPM) at Carnegie Mellon University

Programme overview

MSPPM combines policy analysis with analytical training and evidence-based decision making. It is an in-person degree with four tracks: Flagship, Data Analytics, Washington DC and Fast Track. Capstone projects solve problems for real clients and an internship is required for students without prior work experience.

Faculty: Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy | Duration: 2 years (4 semesters); 3 semesters with work experience; 1-year Fast Track | Intake: August | Study mode: full-time | Location: Pittsburgh, PA, United States

What you will study

Policy instruction is layered on a strong analytical foundation. The Flagship and Data Analytics tracks are two years in Pittsburgh, the Washington DC track has a second-year full-time fellowship in Washington DC, and Fast Track is a one-year accelerated option for working professionals.

Career pathways

Graduates work for government agencies, nonprofits and private firms as policy analysts, program managers, consultants, legislative aides and nonprofit leaders.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

GRE/GMAT required unless waived by a B or higher in a college-level math course (College Algebra or higher; Pre-calculus or higher for Data Analytics) or a Carnegie Mellon undergraduate degree. No minimum GPA (incoming class three-year average 3.62). Two recommendations required (up to three, at least one professional); required essay (career goals, prior experience, why Heinz; at least 700 words); DC track applicants submit an additional essay; resume one to two pages; video interview optional but strongly recommended. Quantitative preparation before the first semester: College Algebra and Introductory Statistics (Data Analytics: Pre-calculus, Introductory Statistics, Introductory Python), each B or higher. English proficiency for non-native speakers (TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo; Heinz College minimums): IELTS Academic overall 6.5 (Listening 6.5, Reading 6.5, Writing 6.5, Speaking 6.0); TOEFL iBT before 21 January 2026 Reading 22, Listening 22, Speaking 20, Writing 22; Duolingo overall 120. Exemptions apply for five or more years of work or study in listed countries or a four-year US undergraduate degree. Deadlines: December 1, 2026; January 10, 2027; February 1, 2027; system closes June 15, 2027. No application fee.

Intake: August

Duration: 2 years (Fast Track 1 year)

Apply through the official page: https://www.cmu.edu/graduate/prospective/index.html

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