Public policy is essential for creating solid communities and organizations. However, presently there is a need for individuals who can formulate helpful policies using big data. The best public policy data analytics master’s degrees help fill this gap by producing public policy experts with strong computational skills.
This article covers all you need to know about obtaining a Master’s Degree in Public Policy Data Analytics including the best public policy data analytics master’s degree programs, the best master’s degrees in public policy data analytics schools, and the highest-paying public policy data analytics master’s degree jobs.
Where Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Public Policy Data Analytics?
The best colleges to get a public policy data analytics master’s degree are Arizona State University, Georgetown University, University of Pennsylvania, Northwestern University, and Johns Hopkins University. These master’s degree programs have well-structured curricula that prepare students to take on a wide range of high-paying industry roles upon graduation.
What Schools Offer the Best Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Georgetown University
- Johns Hopkins University
- Northwestern University
- University of Pennsylvania
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Public Policy Data Analytics?
The admission requirements for master’s degrees in public policy data analytics depend on your specific university or program. Typically, a bachelor’s degree transcript is a mandatory requirement.
Other document requirements for a master’s in public policy data analytics may include GRE or GMAT results, a copy of your resume, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and proof of English proficiency. You must check with your school’s admissions department to find out their unique requirements for enrollment.
Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Official bachelor’s degree transcript
- GRE or GMAT scores
- Resume
- Letters of Recommendation
- Proof of English proficiency
- Statement of purpose
How to Get a Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree
You can get a public policy data analytics master’s degree by fulfilling all of the graduation requirements listed by your institution. The best way to get a public policy data analytics master’s degree is to fulfill the total required credits and other essential graduation requirements. These specific details are listed below.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Master’s Degree in Public Policy Data Analytics?
Usually, you need between 36 and 42 credits for a Master’s in Public Policy Data Analytics. However, the number of credits may be significantly higher or lower for some universities. These credits are shared across the core curriculum, elective courses, and a capstone project. You can check your program catalog for your specific curriculum requirements.
Public Policy Data Analytics Degree Requirements
- You must complete the total number of credit hours specified by your university
- If applicable, you must complete the listed capstone project course
- You must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 throughout the program
- Depending on your program, you may need to complete a thesis presentation or research project
Best Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | MPP Public Policy (Policy Informatics) | Higher Learning Commission |
| Carnegie Mellon University | MS Public Policy and Management (Data Analytics) | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Georgetown University | MS Data Science for Public Policy | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Johns Hopkins University | MS Data Analytics and Policy | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Northwestern University | MPPA Data Analysis for Public Policy Specialization | Higher Learning Commission |
| New York University | MS Applied Urban Science and Informatics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Chicago | MS in Computational Analysis and Public Policy | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of New Hampshire | MPP/MS Public Policy and Analytics Dual Degree | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| University of Pennsylvania | MS Social Policy + Data Analytics for Social Policy Certificate | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Southern California | MS Public Policy and Data Science | WASC Senior College and University Commission |
Best Schools for Public Policy Data Analytics: Top Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree Programs
The best schools with the top public policy data analytics master’s degree have high graduation rates, top accreditation, and strong curricula. The best public policy data analytics master’s degree programs provide students with strong analytical, management, economics, and statistical skills. Using school reviews and graduate testimonials will help you find the best schools for a master’s degree in public policy data analytics.
What Is a Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
A master’s degree in public policy data analytics is a graduate program that covers public policy basics and analytical methods for data-driven policy decision-making. As part of their course requirements, students of this program are expected to learn about statistical concepts, data science, and the formulation of policies for social change.
Public policy master’s degree programs accept students with diverse backgrounds and experience, including math, social science, and computer science. Graduates seeking to combine data analytics and public policy can only do so by obtaining a master’s degree in this field.
How Important Is a Master’s Degree in Public Policy Data Analytics?
It is very important to have a master’s degree in public policy data analytics if you want senior roles and higher-paying opportunities in the public policy data analytics field. For example, most political scientist jobs will require that you have a master’s degree to be eligible for employment.
The main reasons why a public policy data analytics is important are:
- Higher salary
- Upper-management roles
- Subject specialization
- Pathway to a related PhD degree
What Types of Master’s Degrees Can You Get in Public Policy Data Analytics?
You can get the following types of master’s degrees for public policy data analytics:
- Master’s of Science (MS) in Public Policy Data Analytics
- Master’s of Public Policy (MPP) in Public Policy Data Analytics
Both of these public policy data analytics master’s degree types are valuable and provide the opportunity to learn core public policy concepts needed for an industry job. A Master’s of Science in Public Policy Data Analytics is the best choice for students who wish to focus on research and analysis concepts. However, the right degree type will depend on your career and educational goals.
Is It Better to Get a Master’s of Science or Master’s of Public Policy in Public Policy Data Analytics?
It is better to get a Master’s of Science degree in public policy data analytics because these programs focus more on research and data analysis. Graduate students pursuing an MS are more likely to acquire data analysis skills, which makes an MS degree in public policy data analytics better for getting you a job after graduation.
Another difference between MS degrees and MPP degrees in public policy data analytics is that MPP degrees usually emphasize theoretical concepts and policy issues more than analytical techniques. Therefore, compared to an MS degree, MPPs may not be as effective in preparing you for research-intensive industry roles.
What Is the Difference Between a Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree and a Public Policy Data Analytics Certificate?
The difference between a public policy data analytics master’s degree and a public policy analytics certificate is that a master’s program focuses on a broad range of topics over an extended period.
Graduate certificates usually focus on one or two core technical competencies. Therefore, they are not regarded as substitutes for a master’s degree when applying for jobs. Also, while most master’s degree programs in public policy data analytics require between one to two years of study, graduate certificate programs can usually be completed in less than a year.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Master’s Degree in Public Policy Data Analytics?
Public Policy Data Analytics master’s degree costs an average of $19,314 per year, according to the most recent data published by the National Center for Education Statistics. However, other factors could significantly increase or reduce your tuition fees.
For example, most master’s in public policy data analytics offer lower tuition costs for in-state students. So, opting for a university within your state could reduce tuition rates. Online programs are also usually more affordable than in-person master’s degrees.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
It takes about two years to get a public policy data analytics master’s degree. However, the duration of your study will largely depend on the nature of your program and the number of credits you take per semester. For example, students enrolled in a part-time master’s degree program will take longer to complete their program than full-time students.
Master’s degrees in public policy data analytics length may also depend on the program format. Online or hybrid programs may allow students to study at their own pace via self-learning.
How Hard Is It to Get a Master’s Degree in Public Policy Data Analytics?
A master’s degree in public policy data analytics is easy to get. Public policy data analytics welcomes individuals with a data analytics or a public policy background. Regardless of your prior major, getting a public policy data analytics master’s degree is easy. Programs are structured to help you grasp new concepts easily and apply them to provide solutions to real-world problems.
Why Should You Get a Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
The benefits of getting a master’s in public policy data analytics are:
- Provides students with valuable insights into the policy process.
- Graduates learn statistical analysis software and other technical skills.
- Gain a diverse skillset for social work, administrative, research, public service, and data analysis roles.
- Qualify for high-paying senior public policy data analytics jobs.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Master’s Degree Program in Public Policy Data Analytics?
The core courses in a master’s degree program in public policy data analytics cover a broad range of upper-level classes to train students for a variety of senior-level jobs. These courses may include introduction to policy analysis, analytical methods, basics of data science, basic economics, and public management.
Master’s in public policy data analytics course lists, found in a school’s catalog, will provide prospective students with a detailed overview of a program’s curriculum. A brief overview of these master’s in public policy data analytics courses is provided below.
Introduction to Policy Analysis
This course delivers an introduction to the rudiments of the policy formulation process. As part of their lecture content, students will be learning about the critical steps involved in studying public policies and making policy recommendations. They will also be taught about data collection methods and how data is analyzed for public policy decision-making.
Analytical Methods
Students will be shown various innovative methods for drawing inferences from big data in this masters in public policy data analytics course. Analytical methods classes usually cover the rudiments of statistical analysis for handling diverse data sets. This course also builds students’ analysis skills in the context of various programming languages such as R and Python.
Basics of Data Science
Students learning about public policy data analytics are expected to have a deep understanding of the basics of data science. This course provides a foundational knowledge of core data science concepts to prepare students to work with data science research tools and software.
Basic Economics
Knowledge of how markets operate and other critical financial management concepts is vital for promoting economic development through public policy. In a basic economics course, graduate school students are usually taught simple economic models that can be used to analyze policy problems and predict the possible financial outcomes of policy decisions.
Public Management
Public policy data analytics students often work in public sector management roles. As a result, most public policy data analysis master’s degree programs offer courses in public management. Students taking this course will be taught program implementation techniques for groups or communities.
Continuing Education Paths for Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree Graduates
The best path to take with a public policy data analytics master’s degree is to enroll in a doctoral program or develop your skills by registering for a graduate certificate course. Several universities offer certificate courses that emphasize specialized subjects such as urban policy, international affairs, and quantitative research methods. These programs are ideal for masters in public policy data analytics graduates.
Related Public Policy Data Analytics Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree Programs
Things to look for in the best public policy data analytics master’s programs are the cost, faculty credentials, school reputation, curricular content, and employment outcomes. Choosing the right program is foundational to gaining the necessary skills to start a public policy analytics career.
Cost
Your public policy data analytics master’s degree program should be affordable. Although several academic institutions charge very high tuition fees for their graduate programs, it is possible to find a reputable program at a reasonable cost. Online programs also provide a cost-effective alternative for obtaining your Master’s in Public Policy Data Analytics.
Faculty Credentials
When carrying out your school search, you must evaluate the credentials of your prospective department’s faculty members. Receiving training and mentorship from highly knowledgeable faculty members is essential to developing the critical technical and management skills you need to perform adequately in industry roles.
The Reputation of the School
High-paying public policy jobs are usually competitive, so obtaining a master’s degree from a reputable university is essential to make yourself more attractive to employers. By enrolling in a noteworthy institution, you can be assured that you are receiving a high-quality education.
Curricular Content
Public policy data analytics degrees are not very common. Because of this, you must check your prospective program’s course content to be sure that it covers both public policy and data analytics concepts. You must also ensure that your core courses are based on recent and relevant practices in the field.
Employment Outcomes
The performance of your public policy data analytics program’s alumni in the job market is a valuable index to determine the program’s quality. Universities with high employment outcomes usually provide quality teaching and equip students with the resources they need to land an industry job shortly after graduation.
What Is the Most Affordable Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
The most affordable master’s degree in public policy data analytics is the MPP Public Policy (Policy Informatics) degree offered by Arizona State University. The average annual tuition fee for this program for in-state students is $11,720. Out-of-state students, however, are expected to pay up to $23,544 per academic year.
Salary and Job Outlook for Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree Graduates
Public policy involves a lot of data collection and analysis. By obtaining your graduate degree in public policy data analytics, you earn the capacity to function in both public policy and data science roles. Job opportunities in these sectors are numerous and a master’s degree in this field is a great choice to set yourself up for an excellent public policy career.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
It is not very hard to get a job with a public policy data analytics master’s degree. Graduates from this program cultivate quantitative skills that are in high demand in various industries. With this degree, you can land a job in a top-tier consulting firm like Booz Allen Hamilton, work for the government, or even drive social change in the private sector with non-profit organizations.
What’s the Average Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a public policy data analytics master’s degree is $72,000, according to Payscale. However, depending on your analytical skills and experience, you may earn a considerably higher annual salary. For example, the average salary for directors of analytics is $129,555 per year.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree?
The jobs you can do with a public policy analytics master’s degree are public policy research analysis, program management, or consulting, to name a few. Because of the growing role of big data, public policy data analytics jobs are becoming more available across the public and private sectors. A master’s degree can put you in a strong position to land any of these enriching opportunities.
Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree Jobs
- Survey researcher
- Social community service manager
- Fundraising manager
- Urban and regional planner
- Policy analyst
Potential Careers With a Public Policy Data Analytics Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Master’s Degree in Public Policy Data Analytics?
You can make between $59,000 and $125,000 per year with a master’s degree in public policy data analytics. For political scientists and others in research-focused roles, your annual salary can rise to $170,000, depending on where you work, your experience level, and your job description.
Public policy offers attractive salaries for both entry-level and senior positions. However, obtaining a higher degree increases your chances of securing the most lucrative public policy job opportunities.
Highest-Paying Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Political scientist | $122,510 |
| Fundraising manager | $118,430 |
| Urban and regional planner | $75,950 |
| Community service manager | $69,600 |
| Survey researcher | $59,870 |
Best Jobs for Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree Grads
The best public policy data analytics master’s degree jobs allow individuals to use big data to address social issues and create actionable insights for governments, private organizations, and communities. The jobs listed below are some of the most rewarding public policy data analytics jobs available.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is a Master’s Degree in Public Policy Data Analytics Worth It?
Yes, a master’s degree in public policy data analytics is worth it. Public policy data analytics master’s degrees equip graduates with technical skills and strong knowledge of policy issues. Although you can land a public policy job with just a bachelor’s degree, a graduate degree undoubtedly increases your chances of landing better-paying opportunities.
Graduate students enrolled in this specialization will also have the opportunity to learn high-demand data science skills for various industries. Obtaining a Master’s in Public Policy Data Analytics will help you become proficient in statistical analysis, several software tools, and programming languages.
Additional Reading About Public Policy Data Analytics
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Public Policy Data Analytics Master’s Degree FAQ
Yes, you can get a data analytics job with a public policy data analytics master’s degree. If you seek to get a job in data analytics, obtaining a master’s degree will put you in a position to attract jobs with more attractive salary packages.
No, you do not need any background knowledge of data analytics to begin a Master’s in Public Policy Data Analytics. Most programs teach the basics of data science concepts. However, by taking some of the best online data analytics courses, you can ease your transition into this field.
Python and R are the two most popular programming languages for data analytics in public policy. As a graduate student, you will likely be receiving training on how to use these languages to work with big data and formulate valuable policies.
Yes, you can get a Master’s in Public Policy Data Analytics online. Several reputable institutions, such as Johns Hopkins University, offer online master’s degree programs covering public policy and data analytics.
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