Public Policy – International Relations and National Security
Malibu Campus, United States
Master of Public Policy – International Relations and National Security
Pepperdine University
Public Policy – International Relations and National Security
Program Overview: Master of Public Policy – International Relations and National Security
The Master of Public Policy (MPP) with a specialization in International Relations and National Security at Pepperdine University's School of Public Policy prepares future leaders to navigate the complexities of global affairs, diplomacy, and strategic security. Located on the iconic Malibu, California campus with summer classes offered in Washington, D.C., this 20-month program blends rigorous analytical training with a distinctive Great Books approach to moral leadership and policy design.
The International Relations and National Security specialization offers an immersive exploration of international policy, focusing on decision-making, strategic thinking, and the United States' role in global politics. Students gain a sophisticated understanding of statesmanship, global alliances, and U.S. foreign relations while studying real-world scenarios and strategic frameworks that prepare them for diverse careers in government, intelligence, and international organizations.
Pepperdine's MPP curriculum is built on the James Q. Wilson Core, a distinctive set of required courses that balances quantitative policy analysis with the philosophical, historical, and constitutional dimensions of policymaking. As one of the few graduate public policy programs rooted in a Christian university tradition, the program incorporates a unique approach to the moral and ethical dimensions of policy challenges while welcoming students from all faith backgrounds.
Key Program Highlights
- Distinctive James Q. Wilson Core curriculum blending quantitative economics, policy analysis, philosophy, and American founding principles
- Washington, D.C. Policy Scholars Program offering four-week intensive seminars at Pepperdine's D.C. campus
- Access to the Grand Strategy Lab, an academic and policy hub for international security research and symposia
- Required 240-hour policy internship in agencies related to foreign service, intelligence, international NGOs, or government
Curriculum and Modules
The MPP program requires 50 units of coursework completed over four semesters across two academic years. The first year focuses primarily on the James Q. Wilson Core foundation courses, while the second year allows students to pursue specialization courses in International Relations and National Security along with electives tailored to their career goals.
Public Policy and American Institutions
4 UnitsExplores concepts, systems, and institutions involved in public policy development from historical and contemporary perspectives. Examines the moral consequences of public action, market failures, cost-benefit analysis, and the balance between government constraints and personal freedom.
Quantitative Methods and Policy Analysis
4 UnitsProvides essential training in economic analysis, hypothesis testing, and quantitative research methods. Students develop the analytical toolkit necessary to evaluate policies, assess data, and produce evidence-based policy recommendations.
Great Ideas in Political Thought
4 UnitsA distinctive Great Books approach exploring foundational ideas on government and citizenship. Students examine America's founding principles and how they have shaped the government-citizen relationship over the past two centuries.
Strategic Leadership and Management in the Public Sector
3 UnitsPrepares students to assess political feasibility of policy options, build public support, and implement effective strategies. Covers public sector entrepreneurship, government reengineering, resource allocation, budgeting, and the ethical responsibilities of strategic leadership.
International Relations and National Security Specialization Seminar
3 UnitsAn introductory specialization course taken at the end of the first year, focusing on international diplomacy, strategic alliances, and the United States' role in global politics. May focus on specific regions such as Latin America, the Middle East, or the Pacific Basin depending on the current student cohort.
Policy Internship
3 UnitsA required 240-hour substantive internship in public policy formulation, analysis, or implementation. Students in this specialization typically intern at agencies related to foreign service, intelligence agencies, international NGOs, or federal government departments.
Elective Course Options
Admission Requirements
Pepperdine's School of Public Policy reviews applications on a rolling basis for fall enrollment only. The admission process does not include an interview, so submitted materials should be fully representative of your qualifications and aspirations. Contact Uni4Edu to begin your application and receive guidance throughout the process.
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor's DegreeConferred bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university required before enrollment
- Minimum GPA3.0 GPA in a relevant undergraduate degree program (average admitted GPA is 3.45)
- Relevant Academic BackgroundPreferred fields include Political Science, International Studies, National Security Studies, History, Economics and Policy Studies, or Region-Specific Studies
- Standardized TestsGRE, GMAT, or LSAT scores are optional but must be within five years of the application date if submitted
- Work ExperienceTypically 2-3 years of work-equivalent experience; volunteer activities, internships, and leadership experience are also considered
English Language Requirements
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 95
- IELTSMinimum 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 and Funding
Pepperdine's School of Public Policy is committed to making graduate education accessible. Scholarships are awarded to approximately 95% of students, with awards based on merit, academic achievement, and professional experience. Contact Uni4Edu to learn about available funding options for your application.
SPP Merit Scholarship
Merit-based scholarships awarded by the School of Public Policy Scholarship Committee based on academic achievement and professional experience. Historically, about 70% of average tuition has been covered by scholarship awards.
Pepperdine Policy Partners Program (P4) Scholarship
Up to 75% tuition coverageAvailable to applicants from recognized social science programs and co-curricular fellowships. Tier One applicants with a GPA of 3.8 or higher receive guaranteed 75% tuition scholarships, while Tier Two applicants with a GPA of 3.5 to 3.799 receive guaranteed 50% tuition scholarships.
External Scholarships and Fellowships
Varies by organizationThe School of Public Policy maintains a curated list of external scholarship and fellowship opportunities from government agencies, foundations, and nonprofit organizations. Federal Work-Study and federal loan programs are also available to eligible students.
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 International Relations and National Security specialization are well-prepared for impactful careers across government, intelligence, international organizations, and the private sector. Pepperdine's SPP alumni network of over 1,000 professionals spans the country and the globe, with the largest alumni chapters in Southern California and Washington, D.C.
Potential Career Paths
Where Graduates Work
Rankings and Recognition
Pepperdine University is consistently recognized among the top national universities in the United States. The School of Public Policy's MPP program is listed as a top graduate policy program in the West by U.S. News and World Report, and the university's commitment to academic excellence, viewpoint diversity, and ethical leadership distinguishes it among peer institutions.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate Public Policy Programs (Western U.S.) | U.S. News & World Report | Top 10 |
| Dispute Resolution | U.S. News & World Report | #3 |
| Best Christian Colleges in America | Niche | #6 |
| National Universities | U.S. News & World Report | #84 |
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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