Public Policy – Public Policy and Dispute Resolution
Malibu Campus, United States
Master of Public Policy – Public Policy and Dispute Resolution Specialization
Pepperdine University
Public Policy and Dispute Resolution
Program Overview: Public Policy and Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine
The Master of Public Policy with a specialization in Public Policy and Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine University is a distinctive graduate program offered through the School of Public Policy in partnership with the renowned Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution. This specialization focuses on solving public challenges through collaborative approaches, preparing leaders with both policy expertise and the negotiation skills needed to work across differences in an era marked by polarization.
Pepperdine's MPP program is built on the James Q. Wilson Core curriculum, which balances rigorous quantitative analysis with coursework in political philosophy, history, and ethics of public service. The Dispute Resolution specialization adds expert study in negotiation, mediation, and arbitration processes, making Pepperdine one of the only graduate policy programs in the United States to offer such a concentration within its MPP degree.
Located on Pepperdine's iconic 830-acre Malibu campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean, students benefit from small cohort sizes of around 100 students, direct faculty access, and proximity to the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. The program also offers a Washington, D.C. track option, allowing students to live, study, and work in the nation's capital.
Key Program Highlights
- Partnership with the Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution, ranked among the top dispute resolution programs in the nation by U.S. News and World Report
- Distinctive James Q. Wilson Core curriculum blending quantitative policy analysis with political philosophy, history, and moral leadership
- Option to pursue the joint MPP/MDR dual degree, completing two master's degrees in two to three years with 58 total credit units
- Washington, D.C. track option with a campus on Pennsylvania Avenue for immersive policy experience in the nation's capital
Curriculum and Course Modules
The MPP curriculum is anchored by the James Q. Wilson Core, a structured series of 12 to 13 graduate-level courses that provide the analytical foundation for advanced policy work. The first year focuses primarily on core coursework, while the second year allows students to pursue the Public Policy and Dispute Resolution specialization through targeted electives and advanced seminars.
Great Ideas in Political and Moral Philosophy
4 UnitsExplores the philosophical, historical, and moral foundations of policy initiatives through a survey of great books. This course establishes a basis of comparison for the great themes and principles that form the center of American order.
Applied Economic Analysis I and II
8 UnitsDevelops students' ability to apply key economic principles to domestic and global policy issues. Part I covers consumer choice, firm behavior, and market structures, while Part II addresses fiscal and monetary policy, the public sector, and the global economy.
Applied Research Methods and Statistics
4 UnitsTeaches students to evaluate the performance of public policy decisions through research methodology and statistical techniques. Bridges the gap between theoretical foundations and practical applications of research design.
Public Policy Analysis and Implementation
4 UnitsFocuses on the political feasibility of alternative policy responses and the responsibility of public leaders to understand and navigate policy implementation. Students learn cost-benefit analysis and formal analysis of collective action.
Negotiation and Mediation
4 UnitsA specialization course delivered through the Straus Institute covering expert study in negotiation and mediation processes. Students develop practical skills for facilitating agreements and consensus among diverse stakeholders in policy contexts.
Dispute Resolution in Public Policy Contexts
4 UnitsExplores how dispute resolution techniques apply to public policy challenges, including regulatory disputes, labor relations, and community conflicts. Students learn to address disputes in various settings and prepare for roles requiring collaborative problem-solving.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
Pepperdine's School of Public Policy takes a holistic approach to evaluating applications, considering coursework, grade point average, test scores, career interests, recommendations, community service, and leadership activities. There is no predetermined undergraduate major required, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor's DegreeConferred bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited four-year college or university required before enrollment
- GRE/GMAT/LSATRecommended but not required for domestic applicants; strongly recommended for applicants without a quantitative background
- Letters of RecommendationTwo letters required, preferably one academic reference and one professional experience reference
- Personal StatementA 2-3 page essay indicating interest in studying public policy and reason for choosing Pepperdine
- Moral Dilemma EssayA 1-2 page essay explaining an ethical or moral dilemma the applicant faced and how they addressed it
English Language Requirements
- TOEFL (iBT)Minimum 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 awards scholarships to approximately 95% of its students. Awards are merit-based and funded through endowed funds, gifts from supporters and alumni, and university general funds. Contact Uni4Edu for the latest information on available funding packages.
SPP Merit Scholarships
Merit-based scholarships awarded by the Scholarship Committee based on academic achievement, professional experience, and standardized test scores. Nearly 90 percent of students receive some form of scholarship support.
Pepperdine Policy Partners Program (P4)
Up to 75% tuition scholarshipApplicants affiliated with recognized partner organizations may qualify for significant tuition scholarships ranging from 40% to 75%, along with additional benefits such as essay waivers and early class registration.
Named Endowed Scholarships
Varies by fundMultiple endowed scholarships are available, including the Ambrus, Banowsky, Clark, and Friess scholarships, each with specific eligibility criteria. Students must indicate their desire for scholarship consideration on their application.
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 Public Policy and Dispute Resolution specialization are prepared for leadership roles across the public, private, and civic sectors. The program's unique combination of policy analysis skills and dispute resolution expertise opens diverse career pathways in government, international organizations, and the private sector.
Potential Career Paths
Employment Sectors and Employers
Rankings and Recognition
Pepperdine University is nationally recognized for academic excellence, and its School of Public Policy and Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution consistently earn top rankings. The combination of these two highly regarded programs makes the Public Policy and Dispute Resolution specialization a distinctive offering in American graduate education.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| National Universities | U.S. News & World Report | #84 |
| Graduate Public Policy Programs (Western U.S.) | U.S. News & World Report | Top 10 |
| Dispute Resolution | U.S. News & World Report | #3 |
| Best Undergraduate Teaching | U.S. News & World Report | #39 |
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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