Public Policy – Applied Economic Policy
Malibu Campus, United States
Master of Public Policy – Applied Economic Policy
Pepperdine University
Public Policy & Applied Economics
Program Overview: Master of Public Policy – Applied Economic Policy
The Master of Public Policy (MPP) with a specialization in Applied Economic Policy at Pepperdine University prepares future leaders to apply rigorous economic analysis to real-world policy challenges. Housed within the School of Public Policy on Pepperdine's iconic Malibu, California campus, this 20-month program balances quantitative economics and policy analysis with the study of philosophy, history, and moral reasoning through the distinctive James Q. Wilson Core curriculum.
The Applied Economic Policy specialization equips students with the analytical tools to evaluate whether policies achieve their intended goals efficiently and equitably. Students learn to assess costs and benefits, identify unintended consequences, and apply econometric methods to pressing domestic and global policy issues, making this specialization ideal for those interested in research, academia, and policy-oriented careers in both the public and private sectors.
Pepperdine's MPP is both a terminal professional degree and a strong foundation for doctoral studies in economics, political science, or public policy. With a required 240-hour public policy internship, a Washington, DC Track option, and access to multiple research centers, students graduate ready to lead meaningful change across government, nonprofit, and policy-related business sectors.
Key Program Highlights
- Distinctive James Q. Wilson Core curriculum integrating economic analysis with philosophy, history, and moral leadership
- Applied focus that turns economic theory into practical policy solutions for real-world challenges
- Washington, DC Track option allowing students to complete their final semester at Pepperdine's DC campus
- Required 240-hour public policy internship aligned with your area of specialization
Curriculum & Modules
The MPP program requires 50 units of coursework completed over four semesters across two academic years. The first year focuses on core courses that build a strong foundation in policy analysis, economics, and political philosophy, while the second year allows students to pursue Applied Economic Policy specialization courses and electives tailored to their career goals.
Applied Economic Analysis
4 UnitsDevelops the ability to apply key economic principles to domestic and global policy issues, covering consumer choice, firm production decisions, the role of prices in resource allocation, public goods pricing, market dynamics, and externalities.
Quantitative Methods for Policy Analysis
4 UnitsFocuses on applying public policy research methodology and statistical techniques to assess public policy decisions, including hypothesis testing and data-driven evaluation of policy outcomes.
American Public Policy Formation
4 UnitsExamines the concepts, systems, and institutions that participate in the development of public policy from both historical and contemporary perspectives, including the moral consequences of public action and incentive structures.
Great Books in Public Policy
3 UnitsProvides a classical foundation in history and philosophy by exposing students to great ideas, courageous thinkers, and extraordinary leaders who have shaped public policy thought throughout history.
Econometrics and Policy Evaluation
4 UnitsBuilds advanced skills in econometric theory and methods for evaluating the effectiveness of public policies, with an emphasis on applied data analysis and causal inference techniques.
Public Policy Internship
2 UnitsA required 240-hour internship in public policy formulation, analysis, or implementation, aligned with the student's specialization area and completed prior to the second semester of the second year.
Specialization Electives
Admission Requirements
Pepperdine's School of Public Policy takes a holistic approach to evaluating applications, considering coursework, GPA, test scores, career interests, recommendations, community service, and leadership activities. The program enrolls students for fall admission only, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. To begin your application, contact Uni4Edu for guidance and support throughout the process.
Academic Requirements
- Degree RequirementConferred bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited four-year college or university in any area of study
- Minimum GPA3.0 in a relevant undergraduate program; average admitted GPA is 3.45
- Standardized TestsGRE, GMAT, or LSAT recommended but not required for domestic applicants; strongly recommended for those without a quantitative background
- Personal StatementA personal statement outlining career goals, motivation for pursuing public policy, and how the MPP aligns with your aspirations
- Ethical EssayAn essay focusing on a moral and ethical point of view demonstrating your capacity for ethical reasoning
English Language Requirements
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 95
- IELTSMinimum overall band score of 7.0
- Duolingo English TestMinimum score of 125
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Pepperdine's School of Public Policy is committed to making graduate education accessible. Approximately 95% of students receive some form of financial aid, and nearly 90% receive scholarship support. Merit-based internal scholarships are funded through endowed funds, alumni gifts, and university general funds. Contact Uni4Edu to explore your funding options.
SPP Merit-Based Scholarships
Varies (up to 75% of tuition for qualifying applicants)Awarded by the Scholarship Committee based on merit, academic achievement, professional experience, and standardized test scores. Students must indicate interest in scholarship consideration on their application.
Endowed Named Scholarships
Varies by fundMultiple endowed scholarships are available, including the Banowsky, Ambrus, Barton, and Friess scholarships, each supporting students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential in public policy.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Applied Economic Policy specialization pursue diverse and impactful careers across government, academia, policy research organizations, nonprofits, and the private sector. The program's blend of economic analysis, moral reasoning, and practical internship experience positions alumni to succeed in roles that require both analytical rigor and ethical leadership.
Potential Career Paths
Where Graduates Work
Rankings & Recognition
Pepperdine University is a nationally recognized private research university founded in 1937 and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. Its School of Public Policy, established in 1997 with a curriculum designed by James Q. Wilson, is consistently recognized as one of the top-ranked MPP programs in the western United States.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts & Social Sciences | EduRank | #284 (USA) |
| Economics | EduRank | #284 (USA) |
| Political Science (Research Output) | EduRank | Top 300 (USA) |
| Public Policy Program (Western U.S.) | Pepperdine SPP / Industry Recognition | Top-Ranked in the West |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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