UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · UNITED STATES
International Public Policy and Management (M.I.P.M.)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
The International Public Policy and Management (IPPAM) program at the University of Southern California (USC) is designed for international professionals and U.S. professionals aiming to work in global contexts. It attracts students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, including public administration, social sciences, business, health care, and engineering. The program emphasizes practical application and aims to equip students with the skills needed for leadership in international policy and management. To be considered for admission, candidates must possess an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited university and have at least three years of relevant professional experience. The admissions committee evaluates applications based on the alignment of academic and professional interests with the IPPAM program, the quality and length of work experience, academic history, interviews, essays, letters of recommendation, and English proficiency. IPPAM offers a comprehensive curriculum that bridges academic theory with real-world challenges in public policy and management. The program's location in Los Angeles provides access to a vibrant international community and diverse professional opportunities. Graduates are prepared for roles in government, non-profit organizations, and international agencies worldwide.
Curriculum
The IPPAM program is a 12-month master's degree program designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in international public policy and management.
- Year 1
- Foundations of Public Policy and Management
- International Development and Cooperation
- Public Budgeting and Financial Management
- Program Evaluation and Analysis
- Leadership and Organizational Behavior
- Research Methods for Public Policy
- International Negotiation and Diplomacy
- Capstone Project/Thesis
Careers
Graduates of the IPPAM program are well-prepared for a variety of leadership roles in the public and non-profit sectors, both domestically and internationally.
- Government officials
- Policy analysts
- Program managers
- International development professionals
- Urban planners
- Non-profit leaders
- Legislative aides
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic and professional prerequisites for the International Public Policy and Management (IPPAM) program?
- You need an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited university and at least three years of relevant professional experience to be considered for admission.
- How do I apply to the IPPAM program, and what are the deadlines?
- Applications are submitted through USC's Graduate Online Application System. The priority deadline is March 15, with a final deadline of May 1 for international students.
- What are the tuition fees and estimated living costs for international students?
- Tuition fees and specific living cost estimates are available through the USC Office of Graduate Admission, as they are not listed on the program page.
- What English proficiency test scores are required for international applicants?
- International applicants must submit official TOEFL or IELTS scores electronically from the testing agency. Specific score requirements are not detailed, but tests must be taken within two years of the intended first term at USC.
- What kind of career opportunities can graduates expect after completing the IPPAM program?
- Graduates are prepared for leadership roles such as government officials, policy analysts, program managers, and international development professionals in public and non-profit sectors.
- How long is the IPPAM program and what is the format?
- The IPPAM program is a 12-month master's degree designed to provide advanced knowledge and practical skills through a comprehensive curriculum.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate degreeFrom a regionally accredited university.
Professional experienceA minimum of three years of relevant professional experience.
TOEFLNot specified, but scores must be sent electronically from ETS.
IELTSNot specified, but scores must be sent electronically from the IELTS test center.
Official transcripts are required from all colleges and universities attended, regardless of whether a degree was earned. For international applicants, transcripts must be in the applicant's language of instruction and include an exact English translation. USC Graduate Admissions does not accept Duolingo scores.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the USC Office of Graduate Admission for current tuition fees. Specific amounts are not listed on the program page.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the USC Office of Graduate Admission for current tuition fees. Specific amounts are not listed on the program page.
LivingEstimated living costs for international students are available through the USC Office of Graduate Admission. Specific amounts are not listed on the program page.
International applicants planning to apply for F-1 or J-1 visas must submit proof of adequate financial support and a copy of their passport. This is recommended early in the application process to prevent delays in I-20/DS-2019 issuance.
How to apply
1. Complete the USC Graduate ApplicationAccess the online application system and select "Summer" or "Fall" for the term. Choose "International Public Policy and Management – IPPAM (M.I.P.M.)" as your intended program of study.
2. Pay the Application FeeSubmit the required application fee of $90.
3. Submit Official TranscriptsRequest official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Transcripts must be received by USC in an unopened envelope or submitted electronically through approved methods (eSCRIP SAFE, eTranscriptCA, Texas Server, University to University). A Transcript Cover Page must accompany each mailed transcript.
4. Provide Letters of RecommendationSubmit a minimum of three letters of recommendation: at least one academic reference and at least one professional reference. Letters must be submitted through the online application system.
5. Upload Current ResumeSubmit your current resume via the 'Employment Information' upload section in the online application.
6. Write and Submit Statement of PurposeUpload your Statement of Purpose (approximately 1,000-1,500 words) addressing your reasons for applying, how the program aligns with your goals, and your academic interests.
7. Submit English Proficiency Test ScoresInternational applicants must submit official TOEFL or IELTS scores electronically from the testing agency. The test must be taken within 2 years of the intended first term at USC. The USC institution code for TOEFL is 4852.
8. Submit Financial Documents (for Visa)If admitted and applying for an F-1 or J-1 visa, you will need to provide proof of financial support and a copy of your passport. It is recommended to submit these documents early in the application process.
Accreditation
USC is regionally accredited.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic and professional prerequisites for the International Public Policy and Management (IPPAM) program?
+
You need an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited university and at least three years of relevant professional experience to be considered for admission.
How do I apply to the IPPAM program, and what are the deadlines?
+
Applications are submitted through USC's Graduate Online Application System. The priority deadline is March 15, with a final deadline of May 1 for international students.
What are the tuition fees and estimated living costs for international students?
+
Tuition fees and specific living cost estimates are available through the USC Office of Graduate Admission, as they are not listed on the program page.
What English proficiency test scores are required for international applicants?
+
International applicants must submit official TOEFL or IELTS scores electronically from the testing agency. Specific score requirements are not detailed, but tests must be taken within two years of the intended first term at USC.
What kind of career opportunities can graduates expect after completing the IPPAM program?
+
Graduates are prepared for leadership roles such as government officials, policy analysts, program managers, and international development professionals in public and non-profit sectors.
How long is the IPPAM program and what is the format?
+
The IPPAM program is a 12-month master's degree designed to provide advanced knowledge and practical skills through a comprehensive curriculum.