BROWN UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Public Affairs (MPA)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
7.0
IELTS
€62k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
Brown University's Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program is designed to cultivate and elevate the next generation of global leaders dedicated to addressing pressing societal challenges. This one-year program provides a rigorous academic foundation and practical skills necessary for impactful careers in public service and beyond. Students will engage with a curriculum focused on economics, statistics, and policy analysis, preparing them to tackle complex issues with data-driven insights and strategic leadership. The program fosters a collaborative learning environment where students can develop their vision for addressing societal challenges and advance their career aspirations.
Curriculum
The MPA curriculum is structured to ensure students develop strong quantitative and analytical skills essential for public affairs leadership. The program includes core coursework in economics and statistics, with a focus on algebraic manipulation, data analysis, and calculus. Students are encouraged to prepare for these quantitative components through self-study or university-provided modules.
- Year 1
- Core Quantitative Courses
- Policy Analysis
- Economics
- Statistics
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition and fees for the Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program?
- For the 2025-2026 academic year, the Annual Tuition & Fees are $71,700. This amount includes tuition, various student fees, and the Student Health Insurance Plan.
- How long is the MPA program at Brown University?
- The Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program is a one-year program designed to provide a rigorous academic foundation and practical skills.
- What are the application deadlines for the MPA program?
- Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year open in September 2025, and the application deadline is January 15, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EDT.
- Do international students need to provide English proficiency test scores?
- Yes, international applicants must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Verified transcripts are also required upon admission acceptance.
- Are scholarships available for MPA students?
- Yes, all admitted MPA students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships through a holistic review of their admissions application. No separate application is required for this financial aid.
- What foundational skills are emphasized in the MPA curriculum?
- The curriculum focuses on developing strong quantitative and analytical skills, including core coursework in economics and statistics with an emphasis on algebraic manipulation, data analysis, and calculus.
Entry requirements
All post-secondary education transcriptsRequired for all applicants. Verified transcripts are required for international applicants upon admission.
TOEFLNot specified, but required for international applicants.
IELTSNot specified, but required for international applicants.
International applicants must meet English proficiency requirements. Applicants are encouraged to review the Brown Graduate School website for specific TOEFL/IELTS score details. An English Language Pre-Orientation Program is available for incoming graduate students.
Fees
Tuition (international)Annual Tuition & Fees: $71,700 (for 2025-2026)
Tuition (home)Annual Tuition & Fees: $71,700 (for 2025-2026)
LivingNot specified.
The tuition amount listed is for the 2025-2026 academic year. This includes tuition, various student fees, and the Student Health Insurance Plan. All payments and financial aid inquiries should be directed to Brown University.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationStart your application through the Brown University online application portal.
2. Submit Required DocumentsGather and upload all necessary application materials, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, resume, personal statement, and GRE scores (optional but encouraged) or a quantitative resume.
3. Pay the Application FeeA non-refundable application fee of $100 is required. Information on fee waivers can be found within the application portal.
4. International Applicant RequirementsInternational applicants must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Verified transcripts are required upon admission acceptance. The university also offers an English Language Pre-Orientation Program to assist with language proficiency.
5. Submit Application by DeadlineEnsure all application components are submitted by the deadline of January 15, 2026, 11:59 p.m. EDT.
Scholarships
MPA Merit-Based ScholarshipsVaries
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition and fees for the Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program?
+
For the 2025-2026 academic year, the Annual Tuition & Fees are $71,700. This amount includes tuition, various student fees, and the Student Health Insurance Plan.
How long is the MPA program at Brown University?
+
The Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program is a one-year program designed to provide a rigorous academic foundation and practical skills.
What are the application deadlines for the MPA program?
+
Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year open in September 2025, and the application deadline is January 15, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EDT.
Do international students need to provide English proficiency test scores?
+
Yes, international applicants must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Verified transcripts are also required upon admission acceptance.
Are scholarships available for MPA students?
+
Yes, all admitted MPA students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships through a holistic review of their admissions application. No separate application is required for this financial aid.
What foundational skills are emphasized in the MPA curriculum?
+
The curriculum focuses on developing strong quantitative and analytical skills, including core coursework in economics and statistics with an emphasis on algebraic manipulation, data analysis, and calculus.