QS Rank:

4

Harvard University

Massachusetts
,United States

Program Name
Masters in Public Administration in International Development
Overview

The Masters in Public Administration in International Development at Harvard University is a prestigious program that stands out in the field of public policy and international development. This top-ranked program is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to tackle complex global challenges. With an emphasis on innovative and practical approaches, the curriculum integrates theory with real-world applications, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to lead and make impactful decisions in various sectors. The program spans over 24 months, allowing students to immerse themselves in a rich learning environment that promotes critical thinking, strategic planning, and effective policy-making.
The curriculum offers a comprehensive suite of courses that cover crucial aspects of public administration and international development. Core courses include topics such as public policy analysis, budgeting and financial management, and global governance, providing students with a robust foundation in essential principles. Additionally, elective courses allow students to tailor their educational experience to align with their specific interests, ranging from humanitarian assistance to environmental policy. This diverse curriculum is further enhanced by case studies, group projects, and simulations that enable students to apply their learning in practical scenarios.
Faculty expertise plays a pivotal role in the educational experience at the Harvard Kennedy School. The program boasts a distinguished faculty comprised of leading scholars and practitioners in the field of public administration. Their extensive experience and diverse backgrounds enrich the classroom discussions and provide students with unique insights into contemporary issues. The teaching methodology emphasizes collaborative learning, encouraging students to engage actively with the material and with one another. Faculty members also serve as mentors, guiding students in their research endeavors and helping them navigate their career pathways.
Research opportunities are abundant within the Harvard Kennedy School, allowing students to engage in impactful projects that address pressing societal challenges. The school offers access to extensive resources, including cutting-edge labs, research centers, and libraries, which support rigorous academic inquiry. Students have the chance to collaborate with faculty on research initiatives, contributing to publications and presentations at conferences. This hands-on research experience not only enhances their academic credentials but also prepares them for future roles in policy development and analysis.
Building industry connections is a vital component of the program, with numerous opportunities for networking and internships available to students. Harvard's extensive alumni network spans across the globe, providing current students with access to a wealth of professional contacts. The program facilitates partnerships with governmental and non-governmental organizations, enabling students to gain firsthand experience in the field through internships and fieldwork. Such experiences are invaluable for career development and often lead to job offers post-graduation.
Career pathways for graduates of the Masters in Public Administration in International Development are diverse and promising. Alumni have successfully secured positions in various sectors, including international organizations, government agencies, non-profits, and private consulting firms. The career services team at Harvard actively assists students in identifying job opportunities that align with their career goals, ensuring a high job placement rate upon graduation. With a median base salary that reflects the program's prestigious reputation, graduates are well-equipped to make significant contributions in their chosen fields.
Alumni success stories serve as a testament to the program's effectiveness. Graduates have gone on to hold influential positions such as policy advisors, program directors, and researchers in esteemed organizations worldwide. Many alumni return to share their experiences and insights, contributing to the vibrant community at Harvard and inspiring current students to pursue their ambitions fearlessly. Their achievements highlight the transformative impact of the program on individuals who aspire to effect change in global development.
Unique features distinguish the Masters in Public Administration in International Development at Harvard University from other programs. The combination of a rigorous curriculum, expert faculty, and extensive research opportunities creates an enriching educational environment. Moreover, the program's focus on international perspectives ensures that students are well-versed in global issues, preparing them to work effectively in diverse cultural contexts.
Why Study Public Administration in International Development at Harvard University?
- A prestigious program recognized globally for its excellence in public policy education.
- Engage with a diverse community of international students, enhancing cultural competence and global understanding.
- Learn from a distinguished faculty with vast experience in public administration and international development.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that support research and practical training.
- Strong emphasis on industry connections and internship opportunities to enhance career prospects.
- A comprehensive alumni network that provides ongoing support and career development opportunities.
- Flexible course options allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals.
To be eligible for the program, candidates must meet specific admission requirements. Prospective students should have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and demonstrate strong academic performance. Additionally, proficiency in English is required, with acceptable scores on standardized tests such as the IELTS (minimum score of 7.0) or the TOEFL (minimum score of 100). An application fee of $100 is also required, along with the submission of relevant documents, including transcripts and letters of recommendation.
Overall, the Masters in Public Administration in International Development at Harvard University is an excellent choice for students seeking to deepen their understanding of public administration within a global context. The program's combination of rigorous academic training, research opportunities, and strong industry connections prepares graduates for successful careers in an increasingly interconnected world.

Duration
24 Months
Ranking
#3
US World and News Report
#2
The World University Rankings
#4
QS World University Rankings
Class Profile
Diversity
United States:
50%China:
15%India:
10%Canada:
5%United Kingdom:
4%Others:
16%Eligibility Criteria
English Proficiency Tests
IELTS
7
TOEFL
100
Application Requirements
Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

Application Fee: 100
Application Deadlines
Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees
$57,660 / year
FAQs
To be eligible for the program, candidates must meet specific admission requirements, including:
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
- Demonstration of strong academic performance.
- Proficiency in English, with acceptable scores on standardized tests such as the IELTS (minimum score of 7.0) or the TOEFL (minimum score of 100).
- An application fee of $100.
- Submission of relevant documents, including transcripts and letters of recommendation.
The Masters in Public Administration in International Development spans over 24 months. The curriculum offers a comprehensive suite of courses that include:
- Core courses> covering essential topics such as public policy analysis, budgeting and financial management, and global governance.
- Elective courses> that allow students to tailor their educational experience, covering subjects like humanitarian assistance and environmental policy.
Furthermore, the curriculum is enriched by case studies, group projects, and simulations that enable students to apply their learning in practical scenarios.
Several unique features distinguish the Masters in Public Administration in International Development at Harvard University:
- The combination of a rigorous curriculum and expert faculty.
- Extensive research opportunities supported by state-of-the-art facilities.
- A strong emphasis on international perspectives, preparing students to work effectively in diverse cultural contexts.
- Strong industry connections and internship opportunities that enhance career prospects.
- A comprehensive alumni network providing ongoing support and career development opportunities.
The teaching methodology at the Harvard Kennedy School emphasizes collaborative learning. This approach encourages students to actively engage with the material and with one another. Faculty members also serve as mentors, guiding students in their research endeavors and helping them navigate their career pathways. This interactive learning environment fosters critical thinking and effective policy-making skills.
The career services team at Harvard actively assists students in identifying job opportunities that align with their career goals. The program facilitates numerous opportunities for networking and internships, which are vital for career development. The extensive alumni network also provides current students with access to a wealth of professional contacts, further enhancing their job prospects upon graduation.
Graduates of the Masters in Public Administration in International Development have diverse and promising career pathways. Alumni have secured positions in various sectors, including:
- International organizations
- Government agencies
- Non-profit organizations
- Private consulting firms
The program boasts a high job placement rate upon graduation, and the median base salary reflects its prestigious reputation, equipping graduates to make significant contributions in their chosen fields.
The Harvard Kennedy School provides abundant research opportunities, allowing students to engage in impactful projects that address pressing societal challenges. Students have access to extensive resources, including cutting-edge labs, research centers, and libraries that support rigorous academic inquiry. They can collaborate with faculty on research initiatives, contributing to publications and presentations at conferences, which enhances their academic credentials.
Alumni of the Masters in Public Administration in International Development have gone on to hold influential positions such as:
- Policy advisors
- Program directors
- Researchers in esteemed organizations worldwide
Many alumni return to share their experiences and insights, contributing to the vibrant community at Harvard and inspiring current students to pursue their ambitions fearlessly. Their achievements highlight the transformative impact of the program on individuals aspiring to effect change in global development.
Studying at Harvard University offers numerous advantages, including:
- A prestigious program recognized globally for its excellence in public policy education.
- Engagement with a diverse community of international students, enhancing cultural competence and global understanding.
- Learning from a distinguished faculty with vast experience in public administration and international development.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that support research and practical training.
These factors collectively contribute to a rich educational experience that prepares students for successful careers in an increasingly interconnected world.
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