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150 Online Master's degrees in Public Policy
An online master's degree is a fully digital programme that allows students to complete their studies remotely. This flexibility means you can study from anywhere in the world, fitting your coursework around your personal and professional commitments. In our system, any master’s programme that is entirely online is considered an online master's degree. For international students, this means you can pursue your academic goals without relocating, making it a practical and accessible option.
Online master’s degrees in Public Policy offer numerous benefits. The flexibility of studying online allows you to balance your studies with work or personal life, making it ideal for those who cannot commit to a traditional on-campus programme. Additionally, studying online can lead to potential cost savings, as you may avoid expenses related to relocation and accommodation. Pursuing a master’s in Public Policy equips you with specialised knowledge and skills that are highly sought after in various sectors, including government, non-profits, and international organisations. Graduates often find diverse career opportunities and are well-prepared to address complex policy issues. To explore more study options, whether online or in person, visit Explore more study options also in person or Explore more online programmes from all disciplines.

Policy Studies (Online)
The Policy Studies (Online) programme from SOAS University of London provides an overview of the variety of approaches to public policy and management from a historical and comparative perspective.

Policy Analysis
Deepen your public policy expertise with this Policy Analysis programme from Griffith University.
Criminology and Social Policy
The Criminology and Social Policy programme from Unicaf - Liverpool John Moores enable students to develop an advanced understanding of cutting-edge developments in the fields of criminology and social policy, with a particular focus upon their intersection through the processes of criminalization and the workings of institutions of (in)justice.
Master of Public Administration
The Master of Public Administration at the University of Rhode Island is a 36-credit, fully online programme designed for flexible learning. This accelerated degree can be completed in one to two years, offering a comprehensive curriculum focused on public management, policy analysis, and effective governance.
Higher Education (Online)
Higher Education (Online) from Oklahoma State University is designed to prepare students for leadership positions at public and private colleges and universities.
Public Policy and Administration
Public Policy and Administration at California Lutheran University prepares you to become an effective leader who can navigate intricate systems, earn stakeholder support and achieve results.

Drafting Legislation, Regulation, and Policy
The LLM in Drafting Legislation, Regulation, and Policy at School of Advanced Study, University of London offers a unique opportunity for drafters, legal officers, policy makers, and those interested in the process of law-making and in drafting to study the legislative environment and legislation as a tool for regulation.
Policing (Operational and Strategic Leadership)
This Policing (Operational and Strategic Leadership) program at The University of Wales Trinity Saint David is designed in consultation with police forces for senior police officers (in-post) who wish to enhance their career. UWTSD will use an online/blended approach to minimise the time that officers would need to take off from their duties which represents an important feature of this course.
Public Policy and Management
A Public Policy and Management degree from The Ohio State University offers you a wide array of career options that engage you in work that matters. Whether you see yourself in a senior role at the U.S. State Department, as an agency head in state government, as a city manager, or as an advocate in a nonprofit organization, our program will help prepare you for success.
Public Policy
The master’s in Public Policy (MPP) program from DePaul University gives you the skills, experience and analytical tools to help shape governmental policies that influence our local, regional and national agendas.
Homeland Security Studies
The Master of Science in Homeland Security Studies at Sam Houston State University is a specialized degree program that will produce professionals who are best qualified to meet the unique needs of the criminal justice system and homeland security.
Public Administration - Public Management
The Public Administration - Public Management degree at Baruch College prepares students from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds to excel in careers with a public policy, public management, or nonprofit management orientation.
Foresight
As a graduate of the Foresight program of the University of Houston, you will enter an emerging professional field helping clients and employers anticipate significant changes that lie ahead and to influence those changes to achieve their long-term goals.
Public Policy
The Public Policy program from Charles Darwin University gives you in-depth knowledge in political, cultural and social theory approaches to public policy and solid understanding of evidence-based policy development and evaluation imbedded within practical research theories and methodologies.
Public Policy and Administration
Combining managerial skills with research analysis, the University of Redlands Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA) is designed to provide the essential leadership, decision-making, policy development, analysis, advocacy, and effective communication skills needed for contemporary policy leadership within government agencies.
Education and Social Policy
Rooted in economics and sociology, this Education and Social Policy MA program from New York University teaches you how to use statistics, data sets, and research results to formulate, implement, and evaluate educational policies for grades K-12 and higher education.
Management in Policy and Organizational Change
If you want to pursue management-level careers focused on policy and organizational change, this MS in Management in Policy and Organizational Change program at Indiana Wesleyan University was designed to help you accomplish your goals.
Data Analytics and Policy
This cutting-edge Data Analytics and Policy program from Johns Hopkins University empowers students to tackle meaningful policy challenges using analytics. Students graduate with the expertise to be data-driven decisionmakers and policy leaders in both the public and private sector.
Public Policy
Enhance your innovative and critical thinking as you build skills to address today’s real-world issues with this Public Policy program at American Public University.
Public Policy
Accelerate your public policy career with the M.A. in Public Policy offered by Coursera in partnership with O.P. Jindal Global University.
Frequently Asked Questions
Admission requirements for an online master's in Public Policy typically include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Most programmes require a minimum GPA, often around 2.7 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Additionally, applicants may need to submit standardised test scores such as the GRE, although some institutions are moving towards test-optional policies. Other common prerequisites include letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume or CV. Some programmes may also require relevant work experience in the field of public policy or a related area. It's important to check specific programme requirements as they can vary between institutions.
An online master's in Public Policy can significantly enhance your career prospects. This degree equips you with advanced knowledge and skills in policy analysis, research methods, and strategic planning, which are highly valued in both public and private sectors. Graduates often find opportunities in government agencies, non-profit organisations, consulting firms, and international organisations. The flexibility of online programmes allows you to continue working while studying, making it an ideal choice for professionals looking to advance their careers. To explore more options, you can discover online master's degrees that align with your career goals.
Employers increasingly recognise the value of online master's degrees, including those in Public Policy. Accreditation plays a crucial role in employer acceptance; ensure the programme is accredited by a recognised body. Employers value the skills and knowledge gained through online programmes, such as critical thinking, research capabilities, and policy analysis. Additionally, the flexibility and self-discipline required to complete an online programme are often seen as positive attributes. For those considering this path, a masters degree in Public Policy from a reputable institution can be a strong asset in the job market.
Studying Public Policy online offers several benefits. Firstly, flexibility is a major advantage, allowing students to balance their studies with work and personal commitments. Online programmes often provide access to a diverse range of resources, including digital libraries, online forums, and virtual simulations. Additionally, students can interact with peers and instructors from around the world, gaining a global perspective on policy issues. The cost-effectiveness of online education can also be a significant factor, as tuition fees are often lower than traditional on-campus programmes. Furthermore, online learning encourages self-paced study, enabling students to progress at a comfortable rate.
Online Public Policy programmes are highly interactive, utilising various digital tools to facilitate engagement. Common platforms include learning management systems (LMS) like Moodle or Blackboard, which allow for course material distribution, discussion forums, and assignment submissions. Video conferencing tools such as Zoom are frequently used for live lectures and seminars, enabling real-time interaction with instructors and peers. Additionally, many programmes incorporate group projects and collaborative assignments, fostering a sense of community among students. Interactive elements such as quizzes, simulations, and virtual policy labs further enhance the learning experience, ensuring that students remain engaged and motivated throughout their studies.
Online Public Policy master's programmes offer a variety of specialisations to cater to diverse interests and career goals. Common specialisations include Environmental Policy, Health Policy, International Development, Urban Policy, and Economic Policy. Each specialisation delves into specific policy areas, providing in-depth knowledge and skills relevant to that field. For instance, Environmental Policy focuses on sustainability and regulatory frameworks, while Health Policy examines healthcare systems and public health initiatives. Students can choose specialisations based on their career aspirations and the specific policy issues they are passionate about. Exploring these options can help you tailor your studies to align with your professional objectives.