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MPA Program Handbook 2024-2025

MPA Class of 2026

Graduates of the Cornell Brooks Master of Public Administration (MPA) Program emerge as leaders in organizations serving the public across the globe, playing pivotal roles in the planning, management, and evaluation of effective public policies and programs that enhance lives. The Brooks MPA Program offers a rigorous and adaptable two-year graduate education, preparing students for careers in public affairs, public administration, and public policy.

This Program Handbook is a resource designed to assist Brooks MPA students in crafting individualized programs of study that align with their interests and career goals. It provides details on degree requirements, program protocols, and includes forms to streamline the documentation process for meeting academic requirements.

For course options that will prepare you for professional careers in public affairs, public administration, and public policy, please refer to the Brooks MPA Program Course Guide, available on the Brooks MPA Program website.

While no handbook can encompass the full range of individual learning experiences, professional activities, and intellectual challenges at Cornell, the Brooks School faculty and staff are here to support you. We encourage MPA students to design a two-year program of study that reflects their unique interests and aspirations.

Welcome to the Brooks School!

MPA Curriculum

The Brooks School MPA degree is a two-year graduate program requiring four semesters of residence, with one semester potentially completed through an approved off-campus study program. While the MPA Program provides a foundational framework for graduate study in public affairs, students are responsible for designing their own educational and career paths.

Upon starting the MPA Program, students will develop an individualized course plan. This includes selecting a concentration and determining which option will meet their professional writing requirement. Collaboration with the Brooks School Master’s Program Advising Coordinator is encouraged to tailor each student’s plan of study.

Learning Goals

The Brooks MPA Program is designed to offer a flexible learning experience, enabling students to pursue varied academic and professional objectives. However, we expect all MPA students to structure their programs to achieve the following learning goals by graduation:

  • Problem Solving and Analytical Skills
  • Administrative, Political, and Policy Analysis
  • Economic Analysis and Public Finance
  • Quantitative and Analytical Skills
  • Specialized Subject Matter Competence
  • Professional Writing Skills
  • Teambuilding, Management, and Leadership
  • Communication and Presentation Skills
  • Working Across Difference

These learning goals reflect the core competencies essential for success in public affairs and policy-related roles.

Coursework Overview

Throughout their two years, MPA students must complete sixteen courses, typically four per semester. The curriculum includes:

Foundation Coursework

  • Five core foundation courses required in the first semester.
  • Five additional foundation courses across specific foundation areas.

Concentration Coursework 

  • Five courses in the student’s selected area of professional focus, including one required concentration gateway course.

Professional Development Coursework

  • Two courses related to professional writing, leadership, analytical qualifications, or strengthening professional skills.

Colloquium Coursework

  • Courses in Career Management and Professional Development for Public Affairs.

Practical Experience Requirement

  • Options include a summer internship, an academic year externship/off-campus study program, a certificate program, an approved engaged learning program, or capstone course.

Professional Writing Requirement

  • Completion of a Capstone course, Professional Report, or MPA Thesis.

Course substitutions may be permitted based on prior mastery of a subject. For instance, a student with a bachelor’s degree in economics may be exempt from the intermediate microeconomics course and instead take more advanced graduate courses. Students can petition for alternative ways to fulfill curriculum requirements. These petitions must be approved by the Brooks MPA Programs Director, who also serves as the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) and is responsible for final approval of all study plans.

For details on current courses that fulfill foundation and concentration requirements, please consult the Brooks MPA Program Course Guide.

Foundation Coursework

Foundation coursework requirements aim to enhance students’ conceptual and analytical capabilities for pursuing specialized studies in their chosen concentration.

Core Foundation Courses

Five core foundation courses are required in the first semester. These courses provide students with the foundational knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to advance in the degree program:

  • Career Management for Public Affairs
  • Public Administration
  • Intermediate Microeconomics for Public Affairs
  • Applied Multivariate Statistics in Public Affairs
  • Project Management

Additional Foundation Courses

In addition to the five core foundation courses required in the first semester of the MPA degree, students have some flexibility to customize their foundation coursework across the following areas:

  • Administrative, Political and Policy Processes
  • Microeconomics of Government Policy
  • Decision-Analytic Methods
  • Professional Interest

Administrative, Political, and Policy Processes

Brooks MPA students choose two courses from a designated list: one course focusing on leading and managing organizations, and one course focusing on analyzing politics and processes for public decision-making.

MPA students should develop a solid understanding of the following:

  • Planning, leading, managing and evaluating programs in the public sector, as well as across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors in the public interest.  
  • Advancing public purposes and values strategically through stakeholder engagement, effective, efficient and equitable resource utilization, and organizational skills.
  • Adhering to ethical, legal, and professional standards.
  • Understanding the dynamics between politics and administration in various public affairs work environments, including international, national, state, local government, nonprofit organizations, and private organizations interfacing with the public and nonprofit sectors. 

Microeconomics of Government Policy

Brooks MPA graduates should develop a foundational knowledge of economic theory and application in public sector context, including an understanding of supply and demand, marginal analysis, the price mechanism and market structures, standard justifications for government intervention in the marketplace, and appreciating economic concepts’ value in understanding human interactions and public policy.

Students choose one course from a designated list focusing on the microeconomics of government policy. 

Decision-Analytic Methods

Brooks MPA graduates should demonstrate the ability to define and evaluate problems, choose suitable tools or methods for solution identification and assessment, and acknowledge the significance of quantitative skills in policy making, research, and decision-making within the public sector.  

Students will choose one course from a designated list focusing on decision-analytic methods for public affairs.

Professional Interest

Students will choose an additional foundation course from any of the areas above that aligns with their professional interests and provides relevant knowledge and skills.

Concentration Coursework

Students must complete five graduate-level courses within their chosen concentration. One of these courses must be the Concentration Gateway course, which provides an overview of the specialization area and fosters a cohort of specialists within the program. The remaining four elective concentration courses are selected from a list of courses that build upon foundational coursework and deepen students’ knowledge in their chosen area. For specific course listings, refer to the Brooks MPA Program Course Guide.

MPA Concentrations

The MPA Program offers eight concentration options:

  • Government, Politics, and Policy Studies
  • International Development Studies
  • Economic and Financial Policy
  • Public and Nonprofit Management
  • Environmental Policy
  • Science, Technology, and Infrastructure Policy
  • Human Rights and Social Justice
  • Social Policy

Professional Development Coursework

In addition to completing a total of fourteen foundation and concentration courses, MPA students are required to complete two professional development courses of their choice. These courses are designed to enhance students’ professional capabilities and provide elective study opportunities to strengthen specific skills relevant to their careers. Any course selected in this category should contribute to students’ professional qualifications.

The Master of Public Administration Capstone course may count as part of this category. For a list of Professional Development course offerings, please refer to the current Brooks MPA Program Course Guide.

Colloquium Coursework

Students are required to successfully complete several colloquia as part of the MPA Program. These sequenced forums offer professional insights and practice opportunities at each stage of the degree program, helping students connect their coursework with the profession.

First-Year Requirement

MPA students must enroll in Career Management for Public Affairs during the fall semester of their first year. This course introduces students to the public affairs career landscape and provides essential techniques for succeeding in internships and job searches. It is a mandatory course for all first-year students.

General Requirement

MPA students are also required to take Professional Development for Public Affairs each spring semester, completing it twice over the course of their study. This course focuses on general management knowledge, skills, and abilities applicable across all MPA concentrations. Topics, informed by the insights of distinguished practitioners and scholars, may include strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and the management of people, finances, and technology. All students must enroll in this course once per year, in both their first and second years of study.

Waiver Policy

Students who encounter an exceptional scheduling conflict with Professional Development for Public Affairs may petition to waive the colloquium requirement, but only if the conflicting course is essential to completing their MPA course of study. Petitions for a waiver must be submitted through the Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center for review and approval. A waiver may be granted for only one semester during a student’s time in residence at Cornell. Please note that Career Management for Public Affairs cannot be waived.

Practical Experience

Hands-on professional experience in public affairs is a crucial component of the Brooks MPA Program, providing practical application of coursework. Students are required to gain experience in a field related to their concentration.

Fulfilling the Practical Experience Requirement

Internships 

Most MPA students undertake an internship during the summer between their first and second years. Internships can be pursued across public, private, nonprofit, and academic sectors. The Associate Director of Career Management assists students in securing internships that align with their interests, expertise, and career goals. For more information, visit the Brooks MPA Program Internships webpage

Externships/Off-Campus Study

Students may opt for one semester of off-campus study as part of their MPA course of study. To be eligible, students must be in good academic standing, have a completed and approved Plan of Study submitted, and demonstrate how the off-campus study integrates into their degree. It is crucial to maintain good academic standing during both the semester of the off-campus study and the prior semester when applying. Early planning with the Program is recommended, and information sessions on off-campus study opportunities are held each fall and spring semester. Each opportunity has specific application requirements and deadlines, so thorough research is advised.

  • Cornell in Washington Program: This program offers MPA students the opportunity to live, study, and intern in Washington, DC during either the fall or spring semester. Students participate in a full semester of coursework and a rigorous public affairs externship. Housing options include the Wolpe Center or independent arrangements. The program also provides structured professional and social networking opportunities. For more details, visit the Cornell in Washington webpage.
  • Capital Semester Program in Albany: In partnership with The New York State Capital Semester Program, this off-campus study option is available each spring. It allows MPA students to work for organizations in Albany while taking public policy analysis coursework. Students complete four courses, including an eight-credit externship, a core course through the Capital Semester Program, and an online course taught by an MPA faculty member. The program involves attending legislative sessions, meeting with lobbyists and constituents, and drafting policy deliverables. Paid internships with the New York State Legislature are also available. For more information, visit the Capital Semester webpage.

Graduate Certificates

Students may choose to pursue one of three certificate programs to demonstrate advanced expertise:

  • Environmental Finance and Impact Investing (EFII)
  • Infrastructure Project Management and Finance (IPMF)
  • Systems Thinking, Modeling, and Leadership (STML)

Each certificate program includes a substantial engaged learning project that fulfills the MPA Professional Experience Requirement.

Engaged learning programs offered by Cornell Colleges/Schools outside of Brooks may satisfy the MPA Professional Experience Requirement. Examples include the Student Multidisciplinary Applied Research Team (SMART) Program from the Dyson School and the Sustainable Global Enterprise (SGE) Immersion Program from the Johnson Graduate School of Management. Students should consult the Brooks School Associate Director of Career Management for information on other approved programs.

Professional Writing and Analysis

At the culmination of the Brooks MPA Program, students are expected to demonstrate advanced skills in writing and analysis along with experience. To ensure this, students must meet the Professional Writing Requirement. There are four ways to fulfill this requirement:

  • Capstone project through the MPA Capstone Course
  • Capstone project through a Certificate Program
  • Professional Report
  • Policy-Related MPA Thesis

Course credits earned in fulfilling the professional writing requirement, excluding independent study credits, may count towards the 16 courses required for the MPA under the Professional Development Coursework category.

Please note that students who choose an alternative to the MPA Capstone Course should not enroll in a Capstone course.

Procedures & Timeline

Students are encouraged to discuss their options with the Student Advising Coordinator and academic mentors during their first year and aim to finalize their choice among the four options by the end of that year. While a tentative decision can be made earlier, the completion of a summer professional experience might inform a final decision, particularly if it becomes the basis for submitting a professional report.

The final Program Plan of Study should be submitted to the Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center at the beginning of the third semester, including the chosen professional writing option. This ensures clarity regarding any remaining requirements before graduation. Some students plan to finish writing their thesis or professional report during the summer after their fourth semester, graduating in August. This is acceptable but must be planned and approved by the MPA Program Director, not due to missing the May graduation deadline.

The Plan of Study indicates when the student plans to take the Capstone seminar in their second year and specifies whether it’s with a domestic or international focus. Alternatively, it indicates whether the student plans to complete a professional report or an MPA thesis and outlines the required coursework and timing. Students who have not made decisions by the start of the second year may not be able to graduate in May. This decision is part of the Plan of Study submitted through Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center.

For sufficient and timely feedback on a thesis or professional report, drafts must be submitted to advisors well in advance for review and comments. Submission schedules should be coordinated with advisors beforehand. Inadequate time for feedback may delay approval, affecting the expected degree conferral timeline. Theses and professional reports are more substantial than typical research papers and require thorough attention to both presentation and substance.

MPA Capstone Projects

Capstone project through the MPA Capstone Course

The International or Domestic Capstone is a semester-long service-learning course designed for second-year MPA students. It provides an opportunity for students to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired through coursework and internship experiences by engaging in rigorous pro bono consulting projects for real-world public affairs client organizations. 

Each semester, several Capstone projects are offered: one addressing a public service initiative or policy issue posed by a domestic client, and the other by an international client. For each Capstone project, students form consulting groups that propose relevant and actionable solutions. The Capstone projects are multidisciplinary and experiential, allowing students to learn from each other, university resources, and field contacts. Through these projects, students gain experience in managing programs and conducting policy analysis across a broad range of environments and organizations while  acquiring professional experience. 

Capstone project through a Graduate Certificate Program

Students enrolled in the Environmental Finance and Impact Investing (EFII) or Systems Thinking Modeling and Leadership (STML) programs may fulfill the professional writing requirement through the project requirement of their respective certificate programs.

Professional Report & Thesis

Professional Report

Students often complete internships during the summer between their first and second years, usually involving some form of written report or output. For those seeking to elevate their analysis with deeper research, data assembly, and detailed evaluation, the Professional Report option is available. 

To demonstrate professional writing and analytical skills, students must enroll in the Professional Report Proseminar course during the fall semester of their second year. This course aids in understanding the process of creating a client deliverable, ensuring a comprehensive and generative document. 

Students are responsible for identifying a faculty member with relevant expertise to advise and evaluate their project. Typically, professional reports are authored by a single student for a specific client based on their requirements. Approval from the client, supervising faculty member, and the MPA Program Director is necessary to meet the professional writing requirement. 

For detailed guidelines on writing a professional report, students should refer to the Professional Writing Requirement Guidelines. The Professional Report Preliminary form, accompanied by the project description, must be signed by the client and supervising faculty member and submitted to the Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center by the ‘last day to add classes’ of their fourth semester (usually January).

Thesis

For students considering a Ph.D. after their MPA or with a specific interest in public affairs that aligns with traditional academic research, completing a thesis can fulfill the professional writing requirement. Choosing a thesis requires students to be in good academic standing.

Students opting for this route must secure a faculty member willing to advise them, with eligibility limited to tenured and tenure-track faculty of the Brooks School.

During the thesis process, students may enroll in a semester of directed reading or independent study under their advisor’s guidance. However, independent study credits will not count towards the 16 courses required for the MPA degree. Students planning an MPA thesis must also participate in the fall semester’s thesis Proseminar course in their second year.

To initiate the thesis process, students must submit a Thesis Prospectus Form and a signed thesis prospectus to the Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center by the ‘last day to drop classes’ of their third semester (typically mid-October). The prospectus requires approval from both the proposed thesis advisor and the MPA Program Director.

Final approval of the completed thesis is indicated by advisors signing the abstract and the MPA Thesis/Professional Report Approval Form, with signatures from both the advisor and the MPA Program Director.

The MPA thesis must adhere to formatting guidelines outlined by the Graduate School, detailed in the Thesis Formatting Guide. Additional guidance on writing a thesis is available in the Professional Writing Requirement Guidelines.

Advisor

The faculty advisor for a thesis and the advisors/supervisors for a professional report play crucial roles in providing guidance and ensuring the quality of the final project. Their responsibilities include providing advice, ensuring quality, and supporting the student.

Unlike some academic Master’s or Ph.D. programs, the Brooks MPA Program does not require a formal defense or operate with a special committee system for all students. However, individual faculty advisors may opt for a defense based on their expectations.

Ultimately, while advisors provide valuable support and guidance, the responsibility for writing an acceptable thesis or professional report lies entirely with the student.

Approval

Faculty advisors convey their approval by signing the MPA Thesis/Professional Report Prospectus Form which includes an abstract of the thesis or an executive summary of the project paper. Additionally, their approval is confirmed by signing the MPA Thesis/Professional Report Approval Form.

Students must ensure that both of these forms are  completed and submitted to the Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center for the final approval of their writing project.

Finalization

After receiving faculty approval, students must finalize and submit their thesis or professional report to the Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center. To ensure timely graduation, the following documents must be completed and submitted no later than two weeks before the graduation date:

  • A PDF copy of the final thesis or professional report submitted to the Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center and to the advisor or client organization.
  • A completed and signed MPA Thesis Approval Form or MPA Professional Report Approval Form submitted to the Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center.

These steps are essential for the completion and approval process, ensuring that all requirements are met for graduation.

Graduate Certificate Programs

The Brooks MPA Program provides students with the opportunity to explore policy areas in depth and acquire specialized professional skills through one-year graduate certificate programs. These programs include coursework approved by MPA Faculty to fulfill certificate requirements, intensive practical experience, writing components, and seminars that address key issues within each area. Admission is competitive and may require academic or professional prerequisites. Currently, MPA students in their second year can choose from three certificate programs, each offering valuable opportunities for specialization and skill development in specific policy areas.

Graduate Certificate Options

Environmental Finance and Impact Investment (EFII)

Overseen by Professor Mark Milstein, this program equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills for successful practice in environmental finance and impact investment. It provides interdisciplinary training covering economic and political analysis, finance and analytics, science and technology, and markets and regulation. For more information, please visit the EFII webpage.

Infrastructure Project Management and Finance (IPMF)

In collaboration with the Cornell Program in Infrastructure Policy (CPIP), this program offers a comprehensive overview of current trends and best practices in the delivery, maintenance, and operation. Topics include organizational design, infrastructure policy and regulation, finance, and project management. For more information, please visit the IPMF webpage.

Systems Thinking, Modelling, and Leadership (STML)

Tailored for students interested in integrating systems thinking into public sector planning and management, this program emphasizes technology and tools for solving complex problems. For more information, please visit the STML webpage.

Advising & Mentorship

MPA students have the flexibility to take courses from a diverse, multidisciplinary array of faculty members across the university, aligning with their professional objectives and academic preparation. However, to maintain program cohesion and coherent advising, the Brooks MPA Program is primarily guided by Brooks School faculty. These faculty members are dedicated to providing quality graduate education for careers in various public service fields and bring extensive experience in both domestic and international public affairs to their teaching and mentorship roles.

Upon entering the MPA Program, each student is assigned a faculty mentor from the Brooks School who offers academic and professional guidance in completing the program. Additionally, students can seek program-specific advice from the Associate Director of Master’s Programs. For more information about the Brooks School faculty, please visit the Faculty Directory.

Plan of Study

The Brooks MPA Program requires students to submit a Plan of Study form for review and approval at the end of their first semester. This plan should be revisited and resubmitted with any necessary revisions at the beginning of the third semester. Plan of Study forms must be submitted through the Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center. Other forms and petitions should be submitted online through Student Online Forms, Petitions, and Links.

Plan of Study forms are available on the Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center. While the Plan of Study is not a binding contract, it serves as an indicative plan that can be adjusted to align with a student’s evolving professional objectives. Regularly completing and revising the Plan of Study helps students stay focused on their goals. Failure to submit this documentation on schedule may jeopardize a student’s standing in the program. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that any updates to their Plan of Study are submitted for review and approval through the Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center.

Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center

The Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center is your central resource for all aspects of academic planning within the Brooks MPA Program. From this site, you can access essential MPA forms and petitions, the latest version of the Brooks MPA Program Handbook, the Brooks MPA Course Guide, and up-to-date information on MPA compliance and academics. All forms and petitions that require review by the Brooks MPA Program Director or the MPA Advising Coordinator must be submitted through the Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center.

Student Registration

At the beginning of each semester, all students must register with the university. Registration establishes a student’s status as a Cornell student and grants access to the range of university resources and services available to all students. It is important to note that registration is not the same as course enrollment, which is a separate process.

Students must register each semester until they complete the MPA degree or withdraw from Cornell, unless a leave of absence for health or other reasons is petitioned for and granted. Each regular degree student is expected to complete the requirement of four registered semesters with reasonable continuity. MPA students pay the same tuition whether they are studying in Ithaca or during semesters in Albany, New York, or Washington, D.C.

Cornell University’s graduate student registration involves a two-step process:

  1. Graduate Student Registration: The first step is to register as a graduate student at Cornell. This registration is distinct from course enrollment and provides essential privileges, including: enrolling in courses, accessing the library system, receiving an email address, and enrolling in health insurance.
  2. Course Enrollment: MPA students enroll in courses online through Student Center. This system allows students to request classes for the upcoming semester during the enrollment periods, and enroll in or drop classes during the add-drop period (three-week window at the start of each semester).

During the add-drop period, students can register for courses they will take that semester and drop any courses they decide not to take. For more information on enrollment, please visit the How to Enroll in a Class webpage. For a complete list of academic dates, please visit the Cornell Academic Calendar.

Residency Requirements

MPA students must be physically present on the Ithaca campus for all four semesters of the program. They must also attend classes according to the modality offered by the course and cannot request an alternative form of attendance/participation.

Non-residential status is only considered for students in authorized program externships in Albany, New York, or Washington D.C., and for no more than one semester. No other off-campus study programs are approved for fulfilling the registered semester requirement.

Any relevant coursework completed prior to entering the MPA Program, during the summer session, or at another institution at Cornell does not shorten the study period at Cornell. Similarly, taking an overload of coursework during the program does not reduce the time required to complete the degree.

Registration in Absentia & Leaves of Absence

The MPA Program is designed as a two-year, four-semester curriculum comprising coursework and professional experience. Typically, this is completed in four consecutive semesters at Cornell, with the option of three semesters in residence and one semester in an approved off-campus study program.

Under specific circumstances, and in consultation with academic advisors and the Brooks MPA Program Director, students may seek registration ‘in absentia’ or take a leave of absence for one semester:

  • Registration ‘In Absentia’: This option is suitable for students engaged in full-time off-campus work on an approved research project or internship integral to their MPA degree. It indicates a continuation of their program of study despite being in an off-campus location.
  • Leave of Absence: Students may take a leave of absence for reasons like health, personal circumstances, or participation in an approved off-campus study program requiring enrollment elsewhere. However, this program, even if related to the MPA Program, is distinct from enrollment at the Cornell Brooks School.

It is important to note the following:

  • Students registered ‘in absentia’ cannot enroll in coursework at another institution simultaneously. The Brooks School does not permit concurrent registration at Cornell and another institution.
  • Academic work undertaken during ‘in absentia’ registration may count toward the MPA, as it is integral to the student’s course of study. However, work during a leave of absence generally does not count unless approved beforehand by the Brooks MPA Program Director.
  • International students should discuss visa-related matters with the Office of Global Learning before opting for either ‘in absentia’ registration or a leave of absence to ensure visa status remains satisfactory.

Registration ‘In Absentia’

‘In-absentia’ status allows students to engage in professional activities typically related to a research project during the academic year, usually for one semester, in a location at least 100 miles away from Cornell University’s Ithaca campus. The research or work done during ‘in-absentia’ status must be integral to the student’s course of study.

Students can apply for ‘in-absentia’ status only in their second year of study and for a maximum of one semester, except in exceptional circumstances. While on ‘in-absentia’ status, students are not eligible for financial aid from the program. However, their financial aid award agreed upon at admission will resume once they return to Cornell after ‘in-absentia’ status (after one semester).

Applications for ‘in-absentia’ status must be submitted to the Brooks Registrar by June 15 for a fall semester leave or by November 1 for a spring semester leave. Late petitions, if approved, may incur late-registration fees and finance charges. Students in ‘in-absentia’ status for a semester should settle their Bursar accounts before the semester’s first day and provide the Bursar’s Office with their billing address during the ‘in-absentia’ period.

To register ‘in-absentia,’ students must complete an “In Absentia Petition” form from the Brooks Registrar Office, explaining why they need to meet their degree requirements off-campus. When registering ‘in-absentia,’ students may waive the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) requirement if they have adequate insurance coverage. Otherwise, they must continue with SHIP payments. Additionally, students must complete any required summer registration while in ‘in-absentia’ status.

International students should note that ‘in-absentia’ registration counts as full registration for immigration purposes, maintaining their F-1 status. However, F-1 visa students cannot apply for off-campus work authorization until they have completed at least one full academic year of study.

For MPA students to obtain ‘in-absentia’ registration status:

  1. Complete all required Brooks registrar forms at least one month in advance of the deadline (May 15 for the fall semester, October 1 for the spring semester).
  2. Develop and present a detailed proposal for field research or professional engagement, outlining the research question/methodology or professional objectives in public affairs.
  3. Meet with the academic mentor and Brooks MPA Program Director to discuss and obtain approval for the proposal.
  4. Submit all required forms by the deadline.

Leave Of Absence

A Leave of Absence (LOA) can be granted for personal or medical reasons, or to participate in an approved off-campus study program requiring enrollment in another institution. To request a leave, students must submit a Leave of Absence/Withdrawal form. Health-related LOA forms are handled by Cornell Health and the Brooks Registrar, while personal LOA requests are managed by the Brooks School Registrar. It’s advisable to contact the Brooks School Student Services Office before starting an LOA application.

Normally, a leave of absence is permitted only in the second year of study and is limited to one semester, except in exceptional circumstances. Students who receive special approval for extended leaves may be subject to new curriculum requirements upon return. 

Students on leave are not eligible for financial aid. However, their financial aid award can be reinstated upon return from leave (after one semester).

During a leave of absence, students lose access to campus facilities and resources. This includes labs, libraries, and online resources requiring a NetID. Students on medical leave also cannot remain in student housing.

For international students on a nonimmigrant visa considering a leave of absence or leaving the U.S., consultation with the Office of Global Learning (OGL) is crucial as continuous registration is necessary for maintaining visa status.

Before initiating an LOA application, international students must meet with an OGL advisor to discuss maintaining legal immigration status. F-1 visa students can’t apply for off-campus work authorization until completing one full academic year.

The decision between registering in absentia or taking an LOA for field research or professional engagements off-campus is personal and should involve input from faculty and academic/career advisors. An LOA severs the student’s University relationship and suspends financial aid until full-time, registered status resumes.

Registering in absentia or taking an LOA doesn’t accelerate degree completion. Returning from in absentia or LOA still requires completing the four semesters of coursework for the MPA degree, unless the leave semester included coursework at another institution pre-approved for MPA requirements.

Students in MPA off-campus programs in Albany, New York, or Washington aren’t on leave or in absentia; their studies and fieldwork count toward the degree.

Consultation with academic mentors and the MPA Academic Director is recommended before considering registration in absentia or an LOA.

Course Enrollment

Registering for 1-Credit or 2-Credit Courses

To fulfill an MPA requirement, a course must be at least 3 credits. Three- and four-credit courses are counted equivalently in the MPA curriculum.

Combining Courses for MPA Credit

Students can combine 1-credit and 2-credit courses to meet the 3-credit requirement. The following combinations are acceptable for MPA credit:

  • One 1-credit course and one 2-credit course
  • Two 1.5-credit courses
  • Two 2-credit courses

Unacceptable Combinations

The following combinations do not count as a single course for MPA degree purposes:

  • Three 1-credit courses
  • Two 1-credit courses plus one 1.5-credit course

Registering for Courses Outside of Brooks

MPA students are encouraged to enroll in courses offered by the MBA program and Cornell Law School. However, students should review the course roster for any specific enrollment guidelines.

Enrollment Restrictions

No student may take more than half of their concentration courses in the S.C. Johnson School of Business or in professional master’s programs offered by:

  • The School of Industrial and Labor Relations
  • The Department of City and Regional Planning
  • The College of Engineering

This restriction is in place because the MPA Program differs from these programs in both purpose and content.

Petition Process

Students can formally request waivers or changes to certain MPA Program requirements through a written petition submitted either through the Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center or to the Brooks School of Public Policy Registrar Office, depending on the nature of the request. The petition must include a clear rationale and appropriate evidence supporting the need for a waiver or substitution.

For petitions related to coursework, approval must be obtained before the semester in which the substitution will take place. At the latest, petitions must be signed and submitted by the end of the ‘Add’ period; retroactive approvals will not be considered. It’s important to note that petitions will not be accepted for waiving required foundation courses.

MPA Petitions

MPA petitions are designed for specific program adjustments within the MPA curriculum, including:

  1. Selecting a relevant course not listed in the MPA Course Guide. This petition must be approved before taking the substitute course and should be submitted through the Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center.
  2. Requesting approval for off-campus study options.
  3. Substituting a Cornell course, such as the Johnson School’s SGE, for the MPA practical experience requirement.
  4. Waiving colloquium due to a course conflict.

To submit an MPA petition, download the form from the Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center, fill it out, and ensure it is typed and signed before submission.

Brooks School Registrar Petitions

School of Public Policy petitions are utilized for the following purposes:

  1. Adding or dropping a course after the Add/Drop period has concluded. (Approvals for missed deadlines are only approved under extenuating circumstances) 
  2. Requesting a leave of absence due to personal reasons.
  3. Seeking an increase in the credit cap.

To access Brooks School graduate petitions, please visit the Student Online Forms, Petitions, and Links website.

Course Requirements

MPA students are required to enroll in four full-semester program-related courses, in addition to colloquium courses, during each of the four semesters they are enrolled in the Brooks MPA Program. This totals a minimum of 16 courses, consisting of 9 foundation courses, 5 concentration courses, and 2 professional development courses. While students may take more than 16 courses during their time at Cornell, they cannot earn the MPA in less than four semesters unless they hold a Cornell undergraduate degree and are approved for the accelerated MPA program, which allows them to complete the degree in three semesters at minimum.

All courses applied toward the MPA degree must be at the graduate level (5000 level and above). Courses at the 7000 level (and most 6000 level courses) are typically designed for Ph.D. students and should only be taken by MPA students with appropriate advanced training. It’s important for students to consult closely with their faculty mentors during the course selection process and utilize the Add/Drop period to carefully consider their choices.

Courses & Grades

MPA students take at least 16 courses over two years, typically 4 per semester plus a colloquium. They are expected to take all required courses for a letter grade unless the course only offers S/U (Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory) grading. Of the 14 courses counted toward degree requirements, students may enroll in no more than 2 courses (6-8 credits) on an S/U basis, only when a letter grade is unavailable.

To complete the MPA degree, students must achieve a grade of B- or above in at least 14 out of the 16 courses. While up to two grades of C or C+ are acceptable, a grade of C- or below will not count towards degree requirements. For courses with only an S/U grading option, students should verify with the instructor whether the standard for a Pass grade meets MPA requirements (i.e., B- or above). It is each student’s responsibility to understand and comply with the program’s academic standards.

To maintain eligibility for academic funding, students must be full-time (enrolled in at least 12 credits) and maintain a minimum B average (3.0 GPA). Students who perform below a B average in the first semester will receive a notice from the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) placing them on academic probation. If their cumulative GPA remains below a B average at the end of the second semester, they will be ineligible for financial aid in the second year. A GPA below a C average (2.0) at the end of any semester is grounds for separation from the program. Students on academic probation must meet with the DGS to develop a written academic plan for degree completion.

An incomplete (INC) grade is given at the instructor’s discretion and only when: (1) the student has completed more than 50% of the course at a passing level, and (2) extraordinary circumstances beyond the student’s control prevent completion of course requirements.

Students must initiate the request for an INC grade, and the reasons must be acceptable to the instructor, who will specify the make-up requirements. A signed statement by the instructor outlining the reason for the INC and the make-up requirements must be on file.

A grade of incomplete can remain on a student’s transcript for up to 12 months or until the degree is awarded, whichever is shorter. The instructor may set a shorter deadline. If the work is completed within the designated time, the INC grade will be changed to a regular grade. If not, it will automatically convert to an F.

Students may carry no more than two INC grades to remain in good academic standing.

Summer Webinar in Statistics, Microeconomics, and Excel

Students with limited preparation in quantitative and economic analysis, due to a lack of previous coursework in economics or statistics and/or low scores on the quantitative section of the GRE, are encouraged to enroll in a foundational webinar before matriculation. This distance-learning webinar covers elementary statistical analysis, microeconomic theory, and Excel applications. Its objectives are to:

  • Provide students with basic terminology and skills to help them engage in graduate coursework in the Brooks MPA Program.
  • Offer academic advisors a metric to determine the appropriate level of quantitative coursework for students in their first semester.

The material is presented in a series of modules, with instructors holding virtual office hours throughout the summer before the fall semester. There is no tuition fee for participating in the foundational webinar, but students will need to purchase textbooks. The Brooks MPA Program Administration will inform incoming students whose backgrounds in economics and quantitative analysis seem insufficient for starting coursework at the expected level and invite them to take the webinar. Other students who wish to refresh their understanding of economic and statistical concepts and methods before classes begin are also welcome to participate.

MPA Concentrations

Students select a concentration that aligns with their backgrounds and career interests. While career transitions through the Brooks MPA Program are possible, the two-year duration is typically insufficient to achieve the depth and breadth of knowledge necessary to compete with seasoned practitioners in a new field. For example, students aiming to concentrate in international development should ideally have prior field experience in a developing country to be competitive in the job market after graduation. Similarly, those interested in concentrating on human rights should have some prior experience in this policy area.

The Brooks MPA Program does not offer dual or combined concentrations, but there is flexibility in designing a concentration. For instance, a student interested in both international development and social policy could select development courses focusing on demographic and health issues to create a concentration centered on challenges affecting an aging population.

Selecting courses to form a concentration is a crucial aspect of any MPA program. The concentration should not be a random assortment of diverse courses. Instead, students should consider what combination of subjects will provide reasonable breadth and identifiable expertise within their chosen concentration. This expertise can be further developed through work done in the capstone course, professional report, or thesis. A well-constructed concentration should be purposeful and coherent.

While it is impossible to predict where a career might lead in 5, 10, or 20 years, students can position themselves for various career trajectories through their choice of courses and the competencies they develop at Cornell. Career-changing opportunities are likely to arise, and being intellectually prepared for a range of career paths is beneficial.

Academic Standards

The Brooks MPA Program operates under the Cornell Brooks School of Public Policy and adheres to its procedures and policies. MPA students can find a general, comprehensive overview of policies, procedures, student services, and support on the Cornell University Registrar website.

In addition to these general policies, the Brooks MPA Program has its own specific guidelines. Students are responsible for familiarizing themselves with both the general university policies and the additional program-specific guidelines.

Cornell’s Code of Academic Integrity

Cornell University upholds a strict Code of Academic Integrity that demands unwavering honesty and ethical conduct from every student. This commitment to integrity extends to all academic pursuits and interactions within the university community, including the use of university resources. Both students and faculty share the responsibility of upholding these values.

When submitting work for academic credit, students affirm that it is their original effort. Proper acknowledgment of outside assistance, accurate citation of sources, and truthful representation of one’s academic position are fundamental aspects of academic integrity. Students also have the right to expect the same integrity from their peers.

The Cornell Code of Academic Integrity prohibits actions such as misrepresentation of work, fraudulent advancement of academic standing, complicity in another student’s violation of integrity, or any other breach of academic honesty. Violations of these standards will result in severe consequences.

MPA students must be well-versed in citing prior and others’ work correctly. Ignorance of the Code is not a valid defense against an academic integrity charge. International students are especially urged to familiarize themselves with and adhere to American academic integrity norms followed at Cornell.

The Brooks MPA Program employs plagiarism detection software and actively combats academic dishonesty. Expulsion is the consequence for MPA students found guilty of repeated integrity violations, and those with any violations are ineligible for Pi Alpha Alpha induction, the public affairs honor society.

Additional Academic Opportunities

Please see below:

Complementary, Dual, and Accelerated Degrees

Complementary Degrees

The Brooks MPA Program acknowledges the substantial academic and professional advantages that come with pursuing complementary studies in both the MPA Program and another degree program. With approval from the Brooks MPA Program Director, students enrolled in the MBA program at the Johnson Graduate School of Management, MEng program in the College of Engineering, MPH program in the College of Veterinary Medicine, and JD program at Cornell Law School can count up to twelve credits of their respective degree programs toward the MPA degree. Similarly, MPA students can count up to twelve credits of their MPA program toward the MBA, MPH, and JD degrees. This complementary degree initiative reduces the time required to complete both degrees by one semester, enabling students to earn both degrees in 3.5 years. It’s important to note that students must be independently accepted into both degree programs, and admission to one program does not affect the likelihood of admission to the other.

Students interested in complementing their MPA degree with an MBA, MEng, MPH, or JD degree must demonstrate a clear purpose for their academic path and show the capacity to excel in the demanding curriculum of both programs. It is advisable for students to discuss their plans for complementary degrees with their academic mentors shortly after enrolling in the Brooks MPA Program.

Dual Degrees

The Brooks MPA Program offers a formal joint degree program in collaboration with the Sloan Program in Health Administration. Students who are successfully admitted to both graduate programs have the opportunity to earn both the Master of Public Administration (MPA) and Master of Health Administration (MHA) degrees in three years. This intensive joint degree program is tailored for students whose academic and professional goals would benefit from comprehensive coursework and professional engagement in both programs. The dual MPA/MHA Program consists of 90 credits, requiring students to meet the full requirements of both component programs. For further details, please reach out to the MPA Program Executive Director of Public Affairs Programming.

Accelerated Degrees

The Brooks MPA Program offers accelerated pathways for students and alumni who completed their undergraduate degrees at Cornell University. Through these programs, individuals can apply up to twelve (12) credits from their undergraduate studies toward the MPA degree. Currently, these pathways include complementary degrees with the Brooks School of Public Policy, the Department of Sociology, and the School of Industrial and Labor Relations. Please note that only courses taken at the 5000 level or above during the applicant’s undergraduate tenure may count toward the MPA degree.

Complementary degree programs are intended for students in good academic standing who are progressing satisfactorily toward the MPA degree. Students pursuing complementary degrees should discuss their plan for completing both degrees with their academic advisor promptly after receiving an offer of admission. Additionally, a complementary degree declaration form must be submitted to the Canvas Brooks MPA Advising Center within two weeks of receiving an admission offer from a complementary degree program.

Co-Curricular Activities

Students have the opportunity to develop practical skills through organizing, managing, and participating in a variety of sponsored activities. These student-led initiatives, while optional, offer opportunities to share experiences and perspectives with their peers, and to connect with practitioners and distinguished faculty members from the field of public affairs.

The Cornell Public Affairs Society

The Cornell Public Affairs Society (CPAS) is the student government organization for the Brooks MPA Program. Each fall, the MPA student body elects Executive Board members. CPAS not only facilitates a wide range of academic and professional development programs but also acts as the liaison between MPA students and the program’s faculty and administration. All candidates for the CPAS Executive Board must be in good academic standing.

The Cornell Policy Review

The Cornell Policy Review (CPR) is the academic public policy journal of the Brooks MPA Program. MPA students and external contributors write articles based on their research and professional experiences, as well as edit submissions from faculty, alumni, and others. Working on CPR provides students with a deeper appreciation for the rigors of academic publishing and the peer review process, while also refining the writing and editing skills essential for preparing public affairs reports and position papers.

At the end of each fall semester, CPR accepts applications for the positions of Editor-in-Chief, Business Editor, and Social Media Editor. Selected students will serve as Editors-in-Training during the spring term of their first year and as full Editors for the following two semesters. Small stipends may be available for Editors. Applicants must be MPA students in good academic standing and willing to remain in residence at Cornell for the three academic semesters of their tenure. Students planning off-campus study are not eligible. Information on applying for these positions is provided to MPA students each fall. For additional information, contact the MPA Program Executive Director of Public Affairs Programming.

Women in Public Policy

Women in Public Policy (WIPP) is an organization dedicated to facilitating the professional integration of women into public policy roles. WIPP organizes discussions and debates on gender and policy issues, raising public awareness about economic, social, political, and historical topics related to gender and power in policy. The organization promotes principles of equality, justice, and integrity in both public and private sectors, providing a support system and networking opportunities for its members.

WIPP invites women leaders to speak at Cornell, co-hosts events on campus focused on women and equality, and holds panel discussions on current gender issues. It also shares information on gender policy-related events at Cornell and beyond. For additional information, please contact the MPA Program Associate Director of Public Engagement.

The International City/County Management Association

The Cornell Chapter of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) serves as a platform for MPA students to promote professional local government management and foster sustainable communities that enhance lives globally. ICMA members are dedicated to identifying best practices to meet the needs of local governments and professionals serving communities around the world.

Cornell Latin American Student Society

The Cornell Latin American Student Society is a co-curricular organization focused on strengthening ties between Cornell University and Latin America. Its goals include increasing awareness of opportunities and challenges in the region and encouraging active engagement from the Cornell community in development projects there.