Admissions
The MSPA program is a small and selective graduate program. If you decide to apply, we encourage you to complete the process as soon as possible. The MSPA program enrolls students for September admission only.
All prospective students must apply to the Office of Graduate Admissions. Information regarding admission requirements can be found at the Office of Graduate Admissions website or by contacting them at (617) 287-6400. A downloadable version of the graduate application in PDF format is also available.
The MSPA program requires that students submit a completed application form, three letters of recommendation, a resume, Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) scores, and all undergraduate and graduate transcripts.
Please see the general statement of admission requirements for all graduate studies programs in the "Admissions" section of this publication.
Applicants will normally be expected to have a solid background in the social sciences (especially political science and economics), world history, and a foreign language (and/or substantial experience working or studying overseas). In certain cases, applicants may be admitted conditionally, with commitment to a study plan to be completed during the summer preceding the start of the program. Potential applicants are encouraged to meet with the program chair for an individualized review of their background preparation. Current and prospective secondary-school teachers of social studies will find this track of particular interest in preparing them for teaching a variety of courses with an international and global focus.
Financial aid is available in the form of grants, loans and a limited number of assistantships that provide a stipend and remission of tuition. For information about grants and loans, please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions and Records. Applicants for assistantships should send a letter of inquiry to the MSPA program director.
Spotlight Public Policy Graduates
Adam Baacke
MSPA 2003
Deputy Director, Division of Planning
and Development, City of Lowell
Marsha Weinerman
MSPA 1989
Executive Director, Cambridge, Mass.
Election Commission
"The MSPA Program, the McCormack Graduate School, and UMass Boston are committed to promoting diversity among faculty and students, and reflecting that diversity within the curriculum and program activities."
James Ward, Graduate Program Director