Review the information below to successfully submit your MSPPM application
The Master of Science in Public Policy and Management (MSPPM) program has multiple, specialized academic pathways that emphasize multidisciplinary thinking, teamwork, and leadership development through experiential learning and co-curricular programming. Some pathways have different application requirements, so it is important for you to review the information below regarding the application deadline and requirements before you begin your online application.
If you’re looking for MSPPM program overview, including information regarding curriculum, experiential learning, scholarships and financial aid, or career outcomes, please visit the MSPPM main page.
Before you begin your online application, please carefully review the information below.
We will continue to accept applications through the Final Deadline (February 1). Access to competitive fellowships may be limited after February 1.
We will continue to accept applications after the Final Deadline if space remains in the incoming class. After February 1, please contact the Office of Admissions if you are interested in applying.
We offered two other application deadlines for the August 2025 start date for our full-time master’s programs. Refer to the information below for related details.
Submit your application form and required supporting materials by the priority deadline to receive a decision by the end of January. The required supporting materials are two (2) recommendations, official transcript/evaluation report for your bachelor's degree, and official test scores (if applicable). Review the application checklist below for more details.
Applicants who are currently pursuing their bachelor’s degree are encouraged to apply by the regular deadline (see below) so your fall (or seventh) semester grades are included on your official transcript/evaluation report.
The regular deadline is best for applicants who have not yet completed their bachelor’s degree, or for those who do not need an earlier decision from us. Applicants who apply by the regular deadline can expect to receive a decision by the end of March.
The required supporting materials required to make your application file “complete” can arrive after you submit your application and after the regular deadline. The required supporting materials are two (2) recommendations, official transcript/evaluation report for your bachelor's degree, and official test scores (if applicable). Review the application checklist below for more details.
Regardless of your chosen deadline, you will complete these steps to submit your application:
Applications are reviewed after all required materials have been received.
Before you begin the online application process, please carefully review the list of application requirements and admission criteria for the Master of Science in Public Policy and Management (MSPPM) program.
The Admissions Committee takes a holistic approach to reviewing applications, and we will complete the review of your application after we have received all of your application materials.
The MSPPM program at Heinz College is quantitatively focused. In order to ensure success for our master’s students, the faculty have established guidelines for preparedness that must be achieved prior to starting classes at Heinz College. It is ideal for students to demonstrate the required quantitative and/or technical preparation prior to submitting their application. However, there are opportunities for students to complete these requirements once admitted to the program prior to the start of the first semester as a MSPPM student.
Please note the following for the required quantitative and technical classes:
Courses that do not grant credit and a grade will not fulfill these requirements, even if you receive a certificate of completion for the course. The course must be completed prior to their first semester at Heinz College.
As an applicant to the MSPPM program's DC Pathway, you are required to submit an additional admission essay.
As an applicant to the MSPPM program's DC Pathway, you are required to submit an additional admission essay. The essay should be no longer than 1,000 words.
Applicants to the MSPPM Fast Track pathway must meet at least one of the following criteria to be eligible for consideration:
3+ years of relevant work experience; terms of service in Peace Corps, Coro, Public Allies Pittsburgh (Executive Allies only), or Teach for America; or an officer's commission in the U.S. military
Applicants can opt to obtain admission to either the MSPPM or Pitt Law JD program prior to the first year of study at either school.
Applicants can opt to obtain admission to either the MSPPM or Pitt Law JD program (or both) prior to the first year of study at either school, and/or apply to the second school during their first year of study.
Applicants must first obtain admission to the Tepper MBA program prior to the first year of study at either school.
Applicants must first obtain admission to the Tepper MBA program prior to the first year of study at either school. Applicants can opt to apply to MSPPM simultaneously with Tepper, or during their first year at Tepper.
Click here for more information on the Exchange Program application requirements.
Click here for more information on the Exchange Program application requirements.
Didn't find what you were looking for on this page? Check out our Admissions Frequently Asked Questions page for additional information on any of the topics or processes outlined above.