People always ask me, “Oh, so what are you doing a Master’s in? Where are you going to school? Why did you choose the Master’s in Public Policy (MPP)?”
Well, there are several reasons… not just one.
First of all, I knew if I wanted to go to graduate school, there would definitely be some key things I wanted from my ideal program. Besides wanting the coursework to be interesting and rewarding, I also knew I did not want a program that was too focused on one subject. I was afraid I would strongly dislike the subject, in the end…and that is no fun, especially when you liked the topic to begin with! Also, I like a mélange of topics that ranges from economics to political science to media, communications, and art.
Having such a broad range of interests, what initially attracted me to the MPP program at GMU was its interdisciplinary focus. It combines economics, politics, culture, and ethics…all subjects which I enjoy or would like to learn more about. One thing that I thought was specifically unique about GMU’s program was its discussion of ethics in its coursework. Looking at other programs, I had not really seen this topic on their websites or in their curriculum. Most importantly, coming from an economics (BS, Major) and international studies (minor) background, I knew ethics is a critical component of public policy, but is so often overlooked. Furthermore, I liked how GMU’s program did not just put its attention on economic or political science coursework; instead, all of my interests were combined together because you take a variety of courses in different topics.
The second main attraction I liked about GMU’s MPP program was its various concentrations. Other public policy programs I had researched had very economically or statistically focused coursework. Some schools also had up to 3-4 unique major areas of specialization. At GMU, though, there are 10 different emphases! I liked how the program had so many different topics that I believe could interest any student, ranging from topics in national security, science and technology, global medical policy, global governance, or culture, values and social policy.
Third, something else that struck my fancy was that the coursework blended in not only U.S. public policy processes but also tied in subjects with an international focus. A student can also take elective courses in the International Commerce and Policy masters program, such as courses in women’s rights and international economic development. These ideas not only correlate with ethics and economic issues, but I felt they also showed a different side of the program with this intermixing of courses.
While the program itself, I believe, is a great attraction, the professors are also something to talk about. I knew from my undergraduate experience at GMU, the teachers were very knowledgeable and always willing to help students to ensure they understood the material. In the MPP program I expected the same and I knew that if I chose GMU in the end, that I would have excellent professors who had experience in the actual public policy environment or had an array of specializations that would bring several ideas to the table.
Last, for those students who want to stay in the Virginia area or are looking to come to the Virginia area, the price of a public university versus private is much different. While some schools in the district have a public policy program, their tuition prices are very high since they are private educational institutions. I knew that at GMU I would be getting the best possible education at the most optimal expense.
All in all, I think GMU is a great school and I really enjoy being a student at the School of Public Policy. Besides the various activities that SPP students can enjoy, attending classes at the Arlington campus is quite convenient. The campus has a more “city” feel, considering its close proximity to Washington, D.C., metro is only ½ block away from the school and the campus has all the offices that a student would need including parking services and financial aid.
Finally, all the students I have met are really great and fun to talk and work with. I have made friends who are from all parts of the U.S. as well as from around the world. I even have friends who are from India, who took study leave from working in the Indian government to complete the MPP program!
In the end, I know I made the right choice by coming to GMU and completing the Masters in Public Policy.
Maria Habib
Current MPP student
Spring 2009