The mission of the Sanford School of Public Policy Master of Public Policy (MPP) Program is to develop ethical and inclusive leaders who are committed to using evidence-based tools and rigorous analysis to solve public policy challenges and strengthen society through public service.

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Why MPP?

Sanford's two-year, professional MPP program prepares students for careers as analysts, managers and leaders in various levels of business, government, and nonprofit organizations in the United States and around the world.

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Top Rankings

We offer top rankings and high demand in health policy, social policy, energy and the environment, international development, national security and foreign policy, and technology policy, as well as research and engagement expertise.

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Our Strengths

  • Close and connected community
  • Top 10 rankings in public policy
  • Highest-quality teaching and one-on-one mentoring
  • Almost all admitted students receive merit-based scholarships
  • Individualized career counseling
  • Deeply loyal alumni network
  • World-class research university
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Public Policy is Everywhere

"Public Policy matters to me because it touches all aspects of life- it truly is everywhere! I was drawn to public policy because it forces us to think outside of ourselves and incorporate various perspectives in order to make recommendations that uplift and incorporate the views and voices of all." - Maria Castrillon MPP’23

#HumansofDukeSanford
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New Opportunities for New Generations

"Applying to a graduate school in the U.S. holds a deep meaning to me. I was born to a conservative Muslim family in Bangladesh. I want the younger generation of my community to realize that it is okay to dream beyond our own set of rules and pursue education beyond our geographical boundaries." - Abu "Ishti" Ishti MPP ’24

#HUMANSOFDUKESANFORD

Amanda Ostuni MPP'23

"I knew I was interested in human rights - helping to alleviate someone else's suffering."

Jordan Wilson MPP'24

"A really cool thing about being a student at Duke, specifically a graduate student at the Sanford School of Public Policy, are the opportunities that are given to you."

Matthew Vining MPP'23

"You're designing solutions that will be used by communities, by humans. I am excited to be a part of that."

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Student Handbook

Get all the information you need about the program.

Download the MPP Student Handbook