UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD · UNITED KINGDOM
Master of Public Policy (MPP)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 12 monthsProgram Duration
- Full-timeAttendance
- Transformative opportunity for leadersFocus
- Expert practitioners and academicsFaculty
- Policy report placementPractical Experience
- Global alumni networkCareer Support
The Master of Public Policy (MPP) at the University of Oxford is an intensive one-year full-time taught degree designed for current and future leaders committed to public service. This program offers a unique and transformative opportunity to develop academic knowledge and professional skills essential for addressing complex public policy challenges of the 21st century. The curriculum integrates insights from diverse academic disciplines and includes modules taught by leading practitioners, preparing students to become effective change-makers in government, NGOs, and the private sector. The program emphasizes active participation, collaborative learning, and self-directed study, culminating in a policy report placement where students apply their learning in a real-world public policy context. Students can also consider applying for the Blavatnik School 1+1 programme, which allows concurrent application to the MPP and the MSc in Public Policy Research for a two-year study path.
Curriculum
The MPP curriculum is delivered through a carefully planned induction, core modules, option modules, applied policy modules, and a policy report placement. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, case studies, and workshops. Students are expected to engage in self-directed study, including required and supplementary readings.
- Year 1
- Induction
- Policy Challenge I
- Foundations
- Economics for Public Policy
- The Politics of Policymaking
- Law and Public Policy
- Evidence in Public Policy
- Policy Challenge II
Careers
The MPP program prepares graduates to be change-makers in various sectors. Alumni hold senior public sector positions globally, including ministers, elected representatives, and senior civil servants. Many also work in multilateral organizations and the third sector, with some founding NGOs. Graduates acquire skills in evidence-based decision-making, effective communication, and problem-solving, equipping them for leadership roles.
- Government Minister
- Elected Representative
- Senior Civil Servant
- NGO Founder
- Leader in Multilateral Organisations
- Policy Analyst
- Public Service Professional
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the Master of Public Policy (MPP) programme?
- The Master of Public Policy (MPP) is an intensive one-year full-time taught degree, lasting 12 months.
- What are the estimated living costs for the MPP programme?
- Living costs are estimated to be between £17,100 and £24,420 for 12 months (2025-26), varying based on individual lifestyle and additional costs like travel and visa fees.
- When can I apply for the MPP programme?
- Applications for 2026-27 entry are closed. You can register for email updates on the University's website to be notified when applications open for 2027-28 entry.
- What kind of careers can I pursue after completing the MPP?
- Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in government, NGOs, and the private sector, with alumni having served as Government Ministers, Senior Civil Servants, and NGO Founders.
- Are there any scholarships available for the MPP programme?
- The New College Graduate Awards offer generous college-specific funding. To be considered, you must specify New College as your first-choice college in your application by the University's January application deadline.
- What are the English language requirements for international students?
- A higher level of English language proficiency is required, demonstrated through accepted tests such as IELTS.
Entry requirements
General English LanguageHigher level required
Specific academic qualifications are not detailed but generally imply a strong academic record suitable for graduate-level study at Oxford. The program is currently closed for applications for 2026-27 entry. Interested applicants should register to receive updates for 2027-28 entry.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified in source. See 'Fees and Funding' on the University's graduate admissions page.
Tuition (home)Not specified in source. See 'Fees and Funding' on the University's graduate admissions page.
LivingEstimated between £17,100 and £24,420 for 12 months (2025-26).
Living costs are estimates and can vary based on individual lifestyle. These figures are for a single, full-time student without dependants living in Oxford. Additional costs may include travel, visa, and immigration health surcharge for international students.
How to apply
1. Register for UpdatesAs applications for 2026-27 are closed, register on the University website to receive an email notification when applications open for the 2027-28 intake.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, which typically include academic transcripts, references, a personal statement/statement of purpose, and English language test scores (if applicable).
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete and submit your application through the University of Oxford's online graduate admissions portal once the application window opens. Ensure you follow all course-specific instructions, especially for the Public Policy 1+1 programme.
4. Specify College Preference (for Scholarships)If applying for New College Graduate Awards, you must specify New College as your first choice college in your application.
Scholarships
New College Graduate AwardsGenerous college awards
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the Master of Public Policy (MPP) programme?
+
The Master of Public Policy (MPP) is an intensive one-year full-time taught degree, lasting 12 months.
What are the estimated living costs for the MPP programme?
+
Living costs are estimated to be between £17,100 and £24,420 for 12 months (2025-26), varying based on individual lifestyle and additional costs like travel and visa fees.
When can I apply for the MPP programme?
+
Applications for 2026-27 entry are closed. You can register for email updates on the University's website to be notified when applications open for 2027-28 entry.
What kind of careers can I pursue after completing the MPP?
+
Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in government, NGOs, and the private sector, with alumni having served as Government Ministers, Senior Civil Servants, and NGO Founders.
Are there any scholarships available for the MPP programme?
+
The New College Graduate Awards offer generous college-specific funding. To be considered, you must specify New College as your first-choice college in your application by the University's January application deadline.
What are the English language requirements for international students?
+
A higher level of English language proficiency is required, demonstrated through accepted tests such as IELTS.