The Bloustein School, in cooperation with the Rutgers School of Arts and Sciences and the Rutgers School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, offers a joint program that enables students to earn the bachelor of arts or science and the Master of Public Policy degrees in five years of full-time enrollment rather than the normal six. This (3-1-1) five-year program gives exemplary students the opportunity to complete their liberal arts education while preparing for a career in public policy.

During the first three years of their undergraduate education, students will complete most of their major and general studies requirements. They may apply for admission to the joint program in February of their third year. Admitted students will be allowed to take up to 18 graduate credits in the Public Policy Program over the course of their senior year of undergraduate study. The graduate credits will be applied toward both the bachelor’s and MPP degrees. Upon completion of the BA or BS degree, students will automatically matriculate into the graduate program with advanced standing.

In the summer after graduation, students must participate in an applied field experience (internship) at a public agency, nonprofit organization, or private firm working on public issues. Students receive three (3) graduate credits for the internship. During their fifth year, students will complete their graduate studies and, upon fulfilling all requirements, receive the MPP degree.

Advantages of the Five Year Program

During their senior year, students receive the benefit of undergraduate tuition rates while taking graduate courses, thus reducing the cost of the two degrees. Graduates with MPP degrees work in important and varied positions in the field of public policy, including the staffs of several governors, members of the United States House of Representatives and Senate, state legislatures, and federal and state executive agencies. Many graduates also work in the private sector, including policy think tanks, business, finance, and non-profit organizations.

Admission

The joint program is competitive and highly selective. Successful applicants for admission will have a GPA of 3.5 or more, strong GRE scores, a dedication to public service, and outstanding recommendations. Interested students who fulfill the above qualifications should contact the Office of Student and Academic Services to discuss the program and the application process.

The application requires transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, GRE scores and a résumé. Your online application should indicate the BA or BS / MPP Program.