This program is being phased down and is no longer accepting applications. Visit our Programs of Study page for information on current programs being offered.

The Master of Public Policy (MPP) program will provide you with the analytical skill, decision-making frameworks and subject matter expertise to address complex policy questions. You will graduate with the following knowledge, skills and abilities: Skills in using economic and statistical analysis to improve public policy A deeper understanding of policy development The ability to engage stakeholders to affect change Our location in Illinois' capital city and our Chicago connections will provide you with many opportunities to engage directly with policymakers. These opportunities will expose you to the legal and institutional structures in which policies are developed. You will graduate prepared for leadership, advocacy and public policy design and evaluation roles in the governmental, nonprofit and private sectors.

Learning Outcomes

  • Lead and manage in public governance.
  • Identify public problems, research the background of the issues and identify and evaluate alternatives to address these problems.
  • Participate in and contribute to the public policy process.
  • Describe the public policy process and the role of the various participants and stakeholders.
  • Apply relevant theories, knowledge and skills to lead in developing, implementing effectively and evaluating public policy.
  • Analyze, synthesize, think critically, solve problems and make decisions.
  • Demonstrate the ability to collect, analyze and interpret data for use in decision-making and drawing conclusions.
  • Critically read and apply findings from peer-reviewed and grey literature.
  • Articulate and apply a public service perspective.
  • Articulate the importance of and operate in a manner that facilitates democracy, equity, transparency, efficiency and ethics.
  • Communicate and interact productively with a diverse and changing workforce and citizenry.
  • Communicate in a clear and concise manner.
  • Demonstrate a sensitivity to and respect for different cultures and perspectives.
  • Identify differential policy impacts on diverse populations and develop policy alternatives to address these.

Quick Facts

Tuition
On-campus: $6,408/yr*
Online: $6,917/yr*
Duration
2 years
Credit Hours
36

Calendario

Don't miss an important date or deadline

Designed for working professionals, UIS programs feature multiple start dates per year, so you can begin at the time that best fits your schedule and complete your degree quickly. View the Academic Calendar

Now Enrolling

Apply by Date:
Agosto 10, 2026

Start Date:
Agosto 24, 2026

Apply Today!

Tuition & Aid

UIS is the most affordable option to earning your University of Illinois degree. Earn a world-class education for less than you’d expect.

Tuition Estimates

On-campus $6,408/yr*
Online $6,917/yr*

Based on 36 credit hours over 2 years.

*These numbers represent an estimate of the in-state tuition cost for this program and do not include fees. To get an estimate of the full cost of attendance check out the cost of attendance page and/or use the tuition calculator.

Admissions

Applying to UIS is simple

We've streamlined our admission process to save you time and effort. Just follow the steps below.

 

Review admission requirements

No specific admission requirements are listed at this time. Please contact the Office of Admission for more information.

International students, will you need an F-1 student visa to study on campus at UIS? Please review the International Applicants site for additional information.

Complete your application

An email address is required to create an account. To submit a paper application, visit the Resources & Forms page. Find more information about what type of student you are on the Student Types page. Applying for an online program is the same procedure as applying for an on-campus program.

Send your official transcripts

Email your official or certified academic records/transcripts to incomingtranscripts@uis.edu or through any of the major transcript platforms. Photocopies will not be accepted.

Submit required statements/writing sample

If you are a first-year student, a statement of 250-650 words is required for admission. We want to hear about your professional aspirations, intellectual interests, and personal experiences relevant to your choice of a specific academic program. You can upload the required documents on your application status page.

Pay your application fee

You can submit your non-refundable application fee online, after completing the online application. Alternately, it can also be mailed to the university, payable to University of Illinois Springfield.

Domestic students: Undergraduate - $50, Graduate - $60;

International students: Undergraduate - $60, Graduate - $75.

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Courses & Catalog Information

Career Outlook & Potential Earnings

Graduates of this program may find opportunities in the following careers. Data sourced from O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Climate Change Policy Analysts

Research and analyze policy developments related to climate change. Make climate-related recommendations for actions such as legislation, awareness campaigns, or fundraising approaches.

Median Annual Wage $82,220
Wage Range $52,520 – $140,010
Projected Growth Average
Top Skills:
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
  • Critical Thinking
Typical Education: Master’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, Doctoral degree

Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks

Process new insurance policies, modifications to existing policies, and claims forms. Obtain information from policyholders to verify the accuracy and completeness of information on claims forms, appl

Median Annual Wage $49,230
Wage Range $37,560 – $73,590
Projected Growth Below Average
Top Skills:
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Time Management
  • Speaking
Typical Education: High school diploma or equivalent, Associate’s degree, Some college, no degree

Budget Analysts

Examine budget estimates for completeness, accuracy, and conformance with procedures and regulations. Analyze budgeting and accounting reports.

Median Annual Wage $91,640
Wage Range $62,250 – $136,660
Projected Growth Below Average
Top Skills:
  • Critical Thinking
  • Mathematics
  • Active Listening
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, High school diploma or equivalent, Master’s degree

Political Scientists

Study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. May study topics, such as public opinion, political decisionmaking, and ideology. May analyze the structure and operation of governme

Median Annual Wage $142,080
Wage Range $83,350 – $195,190
Projected Growth Below Average
Top Skills:
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Learning
  • Active Listening
Typical Education: Doctoral degree, Master’s degree, Post-doctoral training

Sociologists

Study human society and social behavior by examining the groups and social institutions that people form, as well as various social, religious, political, and business organizations. May study the beh

Median Annual Wage $106,030
Wage Range $65,160 – $172,550
Projected Growth Average
Top Skills:
  • Active Listening
  • Speaking
  • Active Learning
Typical Education: Doctoral degree, Master’s degree, Bachelor’s degree

Operations Research Analysts

Bright Outlook

Formulate and apply mathematical modeling and other optimizing methods to develop and interpret information that assists management with decisionmaking, policy formulation, or other managerial functio

Median Annual Wage $88,940
Wage Range $57,060 – $159,910
Projected Growth Bright
Top Skills:
  • Mathematics
  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Active Listening
Typical Education: Master’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, Doctoral degree
Tassel worth the hassle grad cap

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