Program Overview
The NEC Master of Arts in Public Policy program prepares you for future opportunities in government, non-profit organizations, or the political process itself. The program concentrates on the intersection between abstract policy and real world politics. You will gain an understanding of the intellectual foundations for key public policy discussions and how the outcomes affect change in the political process. You will gain analytical and advocacy skills and will be prepared for advancing in the public, private, and non-profit sectors.
The public policy program integrates your professional experience with small group dialogue that provides you with an experiential foundation for growth in your particular field. Our Master of Arts in Public Policy is a 9-course, 36-credit hour program. You'll take one course during each seven week term, likely enabling you to finish your degree in less than two years.
Lecturers include visiting scholars, political professionals, and recognized faculty that foster a learning environment that combines real world experience and academic excellence.
There are four core competencies that you, as a graduate of the NEC MAPP, should possess. Ensuring that you acquire these core competencies is essential to our academic mission, and will be crucial to your future success, as you pursue your career in politics, public service, or in areas that broadly advance the public good. The areas of core competency that you will have are:
- A clear understanding of the origins of American political institutions and thought, as well as a foundation in ethics and leadership;
- A strong understanding of the key governmental institutions that formulate and implement public policy in our society, including Congress, the Judiciary, the Presidency, and state and local governments; the role America plays on the world stage, and how our public policy decisions and actions have an impact around the globe;
- An in-depth grasp of the political process in America, including the mechanics of campaigns, elections, campaign finance, and the media. In addition, you will be introduced to the political and policy implications of persistent questions of class, poverty, and race in America, and the impact these have on the pursuit of the "American Dream" and,
- An ability to effectively analyze public policy issues, including basic economic analysis, as well as the ability to present arguments persuasively and logically, and to write and speak clearly, correctly, and convincingly. Finally, it is an overarching goal of the Public Policy program that you, as our graduate, will have a renewed desire to play a constructive role in your community, at whatever level, in promoting and expanding the common good.
Study Online, but Never Alone
The online delivery of the NEC MAPP program may be new and different to you. Understanding this, NEC uses a team of professionals who will support your progress throughout this rigorous program. You will have direct access to Faculty, and will be assisted by a Student Services Manager, Admissions Advisor, and Technical Support Team, throughout your online process, from admission to graduation. You will progress through the program with a cohort of approximately 13 to 15 other students who learn together with you and provide peer support and a sense of community in the "virtual environment." NEC's Technical Support Team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to help you resolve any technical difficulties you may encounter.
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The OnlineNEC Experience
New England College (NEC) has a rich tradition of academic excellence. Our online programs are designed for professionals who have already achieved success in their careers and who want to enrich their knowledge with advanced study.
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