The University of Illinois at Chicago is launching a new graduate degree in public policy, becoming the first public university in Illinois to do so.
Approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education, the university’s College of Urban Planning and Public Affairs will offer the Master of Public Policy degree which will cover topics related to education, health, public finance and urban policy.
Starting in spring 2020, students will be able to complete the degree in two years of full-time study, though an accelerated 15-month program will also exist. The degree can also be completed on a part-time basis.
“Public policy graduate students are sought-after analysts and leaders because their rigorous training qualifies them to present policymakers with the most reliable advice about policy design in the best interests of citizens,” Michael Pagano, dean of the college, said.
“This degree will prepare them for careers designing, implementing and refining public policies through work in government, nonprofit and private sectors.”
International students interested in participating in the program should apply by September 1, while domestic applicants can apply through November 1, 2019.