The Watson School’s MPA prepares students to address pressing societal challenges as future global leaders in government, politics, and the nonprofit, and private sectors, at local, regional, national, and global levels. In just one summer and two semesters, students deepen their understanding of policy challenges while building problem-solving, quantitative, communication, and managerial skills. At a time of heightened concern about economic development, social equity, education, health, security, human rights, and the environment, our accelerated program prepares students to develop and implement effective, evidence-based solutions.
Our signature residential graduate program leverages a strong history of international and public affairs at Brown, bringing together faculty, research, and academic programs that trace their origin to the waning years of the Cold War. Founded almost 50 years ago, what is now the Watson School has grown and changed immeasurably — yet much remains consistent, including its aim to promote a just and peaceful world through research, teaching and public engagement.
Rigorous training for an impactful career
Students will build substantive knowledge of complex policy issues while sharpening the analytical, quantitative, and strategic leadership skills needed for careers in public affairs. Because driving policy solutions cannot wait, our one-year format is ideal for public service leaders ready to make an impact.
An emphasis on experiential learning
Through our Policy in Action Project, MPA students conduct a semester-long project to address policy-related challenges for a real-world organization in the nonprofit, public, or private sector. Our students pursue applied, project-based learning in the classroom, through many of our courses, including opportunities to work through a series of case studies, simulations, and exercises to build professional experience in our spring applications courses. They can further enrich their education by engaging with a rich array of centers and initiatives at the Watson School and across Brown. Beyond the curriculum, MPA students can apply for distinctive opportunities such as research fellowships, internships, and teaching and research and assistantships.
A tailored approach
Students can pursue specialized tracks ranging from International Security to Social and Economic Policy, tailoring their policy education to align with key topical areas of particular strength at the Watson School, or create a custom specialization with program approval.
Join a diverse and vibrant global community
Enriched by the many special events and programs offered at the Watson School, the MPA program is a tight-knit community. We bring together students with a diverse array of backgrounds, united by a desire to use knowledge and evidence to promote the common good. Our instructional faculty includes experts from across the globe researching topics such as economic mobility, international development, human security, and education reform, and distinguished policy practitioners with a wealth of applied experience in international and public affairs. Our students also draw upon advice and mentorship from practitioners across our staff, faculty, alumni, and professional networks.