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100% Online Master of Public Policy

Are you inspired to make a difference through policy change in your community, state, region or across the US? CU Denver’s Master of Public Policy degree provides the skills and perspectives needed for a wide range of careers in public policy.

Program at a Glance

Discover a curriculum designed by policy experts and experienced faculty, aligned with current public policy trends. Core courses delve into topics such as policy design, implementation, analysis, and advocacy, while focusing on the intersection and impact of democracy, politics, and power.

  • Degree Level
    Master's
  • School & College
    School of Public Affairs
  • Total Credit Hours
    36
  • Class Type
    Online
  • Time Commitment
    Full-Time or Part-Time
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Advancing Public Policy for a Stronger Democracy

CU Denver’s fully online Master of Public Policy program at the CU Denver School of Public Affairs is a rigorous program unique in its focus on the role of public policy in a democratic society. The program is closely connected to the Center for Policy and Democracy, a hub for research, teaching, and community engagement on public policy and democracy. Working across disciplines, states, and countries, faculty and students bring various perspectives to the study and research of how policies and politics impact the most important issues facing democratic societies today.

#26 Best Public Affairs Program

- U.S. News & World Report

Make An Impact in Your Community
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Choose Your Path
Explore unique pathways in education policy, environmental policy, policy analysis and policy entrepreneurship & advocacy.
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Expert Faculty Guidance
Learn from experienced professors and leaders across policy and advocacy arenas.
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Flexible Learning
Complete the program on your own schedule, 100% online.
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Grow in Your Career
MPP graduates excel in careers at all government levels, in non-profit organizations focused on policy advocacy, with research think tanks, and more.

Specializations: Shape the Future of Public Policy

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Focus on your MPP journey with a specialization in education policy, environmental policy, policy analysis or advocacy. CU Denver’s online public policy graduate degree provides diverse perspectives and crucial analytical skills needed for a wide range of careers in policy design, implementation, analysis and advocacy.

Education Policy

  • You will learn how K-12 education is governed, financed, and regulated in the United States, and become familiar with the interaction between federal, state, and local policies and with the context in which education policy is formulated and implemented.

Environmental Policy

  • You will gain an understanding of how our natural environment is governed and affected by relationships between governments, nonprofits, private sector organizations, and the public, as well as the design and performance of environmental policies that these entities create to address a range of environmental issues and problems.

Policy Analysis & Methods

  • You will gain training and build additional quantitative and qualitative skills used in traditional public policy analysis.

Policy Entrepreneurship & Advocacy

  • You will prepare for a career that involves developing and advocating for policy solutions in your areas of interest.

Hear from Our Students & Alumni

  • The program’s blend of academic rigor, hybrid modality, practical application, and commitment to fostering a community of change-makers makes it an ideal place for anyone passionate about making a difference. It’s been an inspiring journey, and I’m proud to be part of this forward-thinking and impactful program.

    Nicolás Arizaga
    Master of Public Policy Student
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Your Future Begins Online at CU Denver

CU Denver’s online degree programs offer students the flexibility to pursue education from anywhere, at any time, while still receiving a top-tier education. Whether it is advancing current skills, changing careers, or pursuing a passion, CU Denver's online degree programs can help students achieve their goals.

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