While I personally hold a Master in Public Administration (MPA) from HKS—not an MPP—I’ve helped hundreds of people get into the HKS MPP program through my company The Art of Applying®. The MPP degree is one of the most popular degrees among our clients, and it’s easy to see why.
HKS isn’t just a graduate school; it’s a global hub for public leadership. With a mission to improve public policy and public leadership across the world, Harvard Kennedy School equips current and future changemakers with the analytical tools, strategic mindset, and ethical grounding needed to advance the public good.
Students don’t just learn in classrooms—they engage directly with former heads of state, leading economists, and pioneering activists. They participate in real-time policy debates in the iconic HKS Forum, benefit from a powerhouse faculty, and join a network that includes 21 heads of state, as well as cabinet secretaries, military generals, central bank leaders, and lawmakers from across the globe.
Why Choose HKS Masters in Public Policy Program?
If your goal is to lead with impact—whether in government, nonprofits, or the private sector—the Harvard MPP offers the training, community, and credibility to help you do just that.
A Master in Public Policy (MPP) from Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) is a prestigious and rigorous program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in public service, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector. This two-year, full-time degree program offers a comprehensive curriculum focused on quantitative analysis, policy leadership, and real-world problem-solving.
They have a distinguished faculty, diverse student body, and strong global network, HKS provides MPP students with the knowledge, skills, and connections needed to drive meaningful policy change.
In this guide, I will provide some guidance as we explore the MPP program structure, admission requirements, curriculum details, and career prospects for graduates.
HKS MPP Program: Key Features and Curriculum
Key Program Information
The Harvard MPP program is designed to equip students with the analytical, managerial, and leadership skills necessary for impactful public service careers. The program emphasizes:
- Quantitative and Economic Analysis
- Public Leadership and Decision-Making
- Policy Analysis and Implementation
- Ethics and Governance
- Specialized Policy Area Concentrations
Core Curriculum and Coursework
The MPP core curriculum is structured to provide a strong foundation in public policy analysis. Key courses include:
- Microeconomics and Macroeconomics for Public Policy
- Quantitative Methods and Statistics
- Public Management and Leadership
- Policy Analysis Exercise (PAE)
- Ethics in Public Policy
Policy Area of Concentration (PAC)
Students can specialize in a specific policy area, such as:
- Social and Urban Policy
- International and Global Affairs
- Business and Government Policy
- Economic and Financial Policy
Harvard MPP Admissions: Requirements and Application Process
Admission Requirements
To apply for the MPP program at Harvard Kennedy School, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university
- Strong Academic Background, particularly in social sciences, economics, and mathematics
- Professional Work Experience (Preferred but Not Required)
- Standardized Test Scores (GRE/GMAT Recommended, but Optional)
- Compelling Statement of Purpose
- Letters of Recommendation (3 Required)
- Resume/CV Highlighting Leadership and Public Service Experience
What is the lowest GPA that has been accepted to Harvard Kennedy School’s MPP or MPA Program?
Harvard Kennedy School does not have a minimum required GPA for admission. Among our hundreds of clients who were admitted to Harvard Kennedy School, the lowest GPA of an admitted applicant was slightly below 2.5.
Back when I applied, I had a 3.5 GPA, a 620 GMAT, and some C’s on my transcript—but I got in. The difference? Clarity, confidence, and a compelling story. Stats matter, but they aren’t the whole story.
Application Process
- Complete the Online Application on the Harvard Kennedy School website
- Submit Required Documents (transcripts, test scores, recommendations, resume, and essays)
- Pay the Application Fee
- Attend an Admissions Interview (if invited)
- Await Decision Notification
Harvard MPP Acceptance Rate and Class Profile
Acceptance Rate
Harvard Kennedy School is highly selective, with the MPP program acceptance rate ranging between 18-22% in recent years.
However, at The Art of Applying®, our acceptance rate for Harvard Kennedy School across all degrees is over 40%.
And look, Harvard Kennedy School is highly selective, but don’t psych yourself out or count yourself out from applying. Very few people applying have a flawless profile. What matters is whether your story resonates, your purpose is clear, and you’ve done the work to connect the dots between all the different parts of your story.
MPP Class Profile
A typical Harvard MPP class consists of:
- Average Age: 25-30 years
- Diverse Professional Backgrounds: Government, nonprofits, consulting, finance, and international affairs
- Global Representation: Students from over 90 countries
- Diverse Academic Backgrounds: Economics, political science, sociology, public administration, and STEM fields
MPP vs. MPA: What’s the Difference?
Both the MPP and MPA (Master in Public Administration) at HKS prepare students for public service careers, but there are key differences:
| Feature | MPP (Master in Public Policy) | MPA (Master in Public Administration) |
| Focus | Policy analysis, quantitative skills | Leadership, management, broader governance |
| Target Audience | Early-career professionals | Mid-career professionals |
| Curriculum | Strong quantitative focus | Flexible and customizable |
| Degree Length | Two-year program | One to two years, depending on track |
As for me, I did the MPA as part of the joint HBS/HKS program—and being the only Black woman in the MPA cohort at the time was no joke. So yes, these tracks have differences. But so much of what you’ll get out of it depends on how you show up and who you surround yourself with.
You can check out this link for more info.
Joint Degree and MBA-MPP at Harvard
Harvard Kennedy School offers joint degree programs, including the MPP – MBA with Harvard Business School. Other options include:
- MPP-JD (Law Degree) with Harvard Law School
- MPP-MD (Medical Degree) with Harvard Medical School
- MPP-MPA/ID (International Development) for policy professionals focused on global issues
These joint degree programs allow students to gain interdisciplinary expertise, expanding career opportunities in policy, law, business, and international development.
Watch me live edit a Harvard MBA and MPP application.
Career Prospects for Harvard MPP Graduates
Graduates of the Harvard MPP program pursue careers in:
- Government Agencies (Local, State, Federal, International)
- Nonprofit Organizations and NGOs
- Consulting Firms (Public Sector Strategy)
- Policy Research and Think Tanks
- Private Sector Roles in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Top employers of MPP graduates include:
- The World Bank
- United Nations
- U.S. State Department
- McKinsey & Company
- Nonprofits like the Gates Foundation
How to Stand Out in Your MPP Application
Tips for a Strong Application:
- Demonstrate Leadership and Public Service Commitment
- Highlight Quantitative and Analytical Skills
- Craft a Strong Statement of Purpose with a clear career vision
- Secure Compelling Recommendations from academic and professional mentors
- Showcase Relevant Work Experience (internships, volunteer work, policy projects)
In 2019, the popular local magazine Austin Woman wrote an article about me, and I shared this, which I still believe to be true today: “Our flaws and weaknesses are what make us interesting, so rather than concealing that beauty mark, I encourage my clients to write the optional essay. Concisely and unapologetically address each weakness in your profile that may be a concern, proving what you learned from that misstep.”
Is Harvard MPP Right for You?
If you aspire to influence public policy, lead organizations, or drive social change in the nonprofit, government, or private sector, the Harvard MPP program offers unparalleled resources, expertise, and networking opportunities. With its rigorous curriculum and global community, HKS provides a transformative experience for aspiring public leaders.
And if you’re wondering if a place like Harvard is really for someone like you, let me say this clearly: it is. I applied while feeling lost. I got in with a 620 GMAT. And now I run a company helping others do the same. So don’t wait to feel ready.
Book a free Quick Call with my team so you can apply, and let the process grow you.
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