Welcome! This comprehensive guide provides insights into the different graduate programs offered by the Harvard Kennedy School, particularly focusing on the Master’s in Public Policy (MPP), Master’s in Public Administration (MPA), and their relation to the MBA at Harvard Business School.
What are the Differences Between MPP and MPA?
The MPP and MPA programs are designed for individuals with varying levels of work experience and academic backgrounds. For instance, an MPA program typically suits candidates with around five years of work experience and an average age of 30. The MPP, on the other hand, is more suited to candidates with less work experience or those who don’t already hold a graduate degree.
MPP vs MPA: Core Curriculum and Flexibility
One of the appeals of the MPA program is its flexibility, as there’s no strict core curriculum. However, it’s crucial to note that the MPA program generally recommends applicants to have a graduate degree already. On the contrary, the MPP program offers a strong quantitative foundation through courses like statistics, microeconomics, and econometrics, with more flexibility to choose elective classes in the second year.
Coupling Graduate Programs with MBA
There’s an option to couple the MPP or MPA program with an MBA program. If you’re interested in a joint degree from Harvard Business School and Harvard Kennedy School, you’d opt for the MPP/MBA. For those interested in coupling the MPA with an MBA, you have the choice to apply simultaneously to one of the MBA programs at Dartmouth Tuck, Stanford GSB, MIT Sloan, or Pennsylvania’s Wharton School.
Interestingly, the MPA program tends to recommend a higher GRE score than the MPP. This might influence which program you choose to apply to based on your own GRE score.
Transitioning Between MPP and MPA
There’s a possibility of transitioning from the MPP program to the MPA for added flexibility once you’re admitted. But remember, this advice is highly specific and won’t apply to everyone. Before making such decisions, it’s advisable to talk to the admissions office or read extensively on the Kennedy School website.
The Mid-career MPA Program
The Mid-career MPA program, which is of one-year duration, is another option for candidates with around seven or more years of work experience. This option is particularly suitable for those who want to rejoin the workforce as quickly as possible without having to complete a two-year MPA program.
Applying to Multiple Programs: MBA and MPA
While it’s possible to apply to both the Harvard Business School’s MBA and the Kennedy School’s MPA, you’ll eventually have to choose between the two as they don’t have a joint degree program.
Ultimately, the choice between MPP and MPA or coupling them with an MBA depends on your career goals, years of work experience, and your educational background. It’s best to thoroughly research each program, reflect on your career aspirations, and consult with professionals or alumni to make an informed decision.
If you’re interested in more insights into the Harvard Kennedy School and its programs, feel free to explore more resources or reach out to us.