English 
Deutsch Who is the Master of Public Policy suitable for?
The Master of Public Policy at the Hertie School is aimed at university graduates who have an interest in political processes, international connections, and societal problem-solving. You are suitable if you are interested in taking on leadership or analytical tasks in the public sector, NGOs, international organizations, business, or consulting firms in the future. Applicants with initial experience in politics, administration, business, non-profit organizations, or international projects are particularly encouraged to apply.
Admission requirements at a glance
In order to be admitted to the Master of Public Policy, you must meet the following formal requirements:
- Bachelor's degree with at least 180 ECTS points (or an equivalent university degree)
- Proficiency in English language, both spoken and written, demonstrated by a standardized English test (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge Certificate)
The program is open to graduates from all disciplines. While not mandatory, prior knowledge in social sciences, political science, public administration, or economics is advantageous.
In addition, the following personal qualifications improve your admission chances and study success:
- Strong interest in political, societal, and economic issues
- Willingness to work interdisciplinary and solve problems independently
- Evidence of commitment, for example through internships, international experience, voluntary work, or participation in political/civil society projects
- Analytical skills and motivation to structure and evaluate complex connections
- Openness to international teamwork and multicultural perspectives
- Initiative and willingness to take on responsibility in projects
What content and skills does the Master of Public Policy at Hertie School convey?
In the Master of Public Policy (MPP), you will learn to analyze societal problems interdisciplinary and to develop, implement, and evaluate effective solutions for politics and administration. The program combines political science, economics, public administration, law, and sociology. The two study focuses – Policy analysis and Governance and Leadership – allow for individual alignment. Key competencies include:
- Analysis and evaluation of political processes and decisions
- Deepening legal and administrative fundamentals for governance
- Handling quantitative methods and statistics for policy evaluation
- Basic and advanced knowledge in economics linked to political issues
- Project management and leadership skills in the public sector
- Enhanced skills through elective modules, such as in climate policy, digitalization, social and health policy, education policy, or data science
- Concrete application in practice-oriented project courses and workshops (e.g. Excel, negotiation, presentation)
- Addressing a real political problem in the context of the master's thesis, including the development of policy recommendations
The instruction is entirely in English and prepares practically for the challenges of modern governance processes in the public and civil society context.
How is the structure and progression of the program designed?
The program is designed for two years (120 ECTS) as a full-time study and consists of mandatory, elective, and optional modules:
- In the first year of study, you will take basic modules: "The Policy Process," "Law & Governance," "Statistics I," "Public Management," and "Economics I & II." Depending on the focus, you will choose "Statistics II" or "Management & Leadership" in the second semester.
- The "Professional Development" module includes a project-oriented practical course with external partners, at least two workshops for additional professional qualifications, and an internship (at least six weeks).
- In the second year of study, you specialize: two elective modules corresponding to the study focus (Policy analysis or Governance and Leadership) and four further optional courses from the broad range of courses – e.g. on topics like climate change, digitalization, education policy, ethics, behavioral economics, or data science.
- In the last semester, you will write the master's thesis (12,000–14,000 words). Here, you will analyze a practical political problem and develop recommendations based on it, supported by a colloquium.
The program also integrates international perspectives through participation in partner programs and exchange opportunities with over 20 universities worldwide.
What are the career prospects and job opportunities after graduation?
With a Master of Public Policy, you qualify for responsible positions at public, private, and civil society employers. Typical fields and positions for graduates include:
- Ministries, authorities, and international organizations (e.g. EU, UN, NGOs)
- Consulting companies focusing on the public sector or policy analysis
- Specialist and leadership careers in companies (especially in areas like government affairs, corporate responsibility, tech & digitalization)
- Think tanks, research institutes, and foundations
- Start-ups or founding your own NGO
Due to the practical orientation, an integrated internship, and a strong international alumni network, you are optimally prepared for analytical, executive, and advisory activities in the political and administrative environment.
What are the costs incurred and how can you finance your studies?
For the two-year full-time study, there are tuition fees. About half of the students receive financial support:
- Extensive scholarship offerings for different profiles (performance, origin, engagement)
- Personal consultation on study financing
- Possibilities of further educational or study loans
- Tuition fees and costs can be tax deductible in many cases
Hertie School values ensuring access regardless of financial situation – about 50% of all students receive support.
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