The Master of Arts in Public Policy (MAPP) degree from Monmouth University prepares students for careers in policy analysis and public service. The degree program focuses on an array of policy areas.

Located in West Long Branch, N.J., Monmouth University’s coastal campus is approximately one hour from New York City and one mile from ocean beaches. The school is listed in U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Colleges,” Princeton Review’s “Best Colleges,” and Money Magazine’s “Best Colleges for Your Money.” GPN reached out to Program Director Stephen J. Chapman (photo to the left) to learn more.

GPN: Can your school’s degree program offer new opportunities to government managers and administrators?

Stephen J. Chapman: Monmouth University’s Master of Arts in Public Policy (MAPP) program offers a variety of courses that prepare students to understand the theoretical foundations as well as the practical knowledge of policy and the policy process. In addition to this, students learn and apply the use of quantitative methods in order to provide a thorough and objective analysis of relevant policy problems.

GPN: What sets the program apart from other MPA offerings?

SC: Students in the MAPP program also have the opportunity to interact and work with various centers on campus, including Monmouth University’s Polling Institute as well as the Urban Coast Institute. The knowledge and skills gained over the course of the program allow graduates to pursue numerous careers in state and local government, non-profit organizations, as well as a myriad of different agencies.

GPN: Is 2016-2017 a great time to earn an MPA for government administrators

SC: The year 2016 marks a transition period in many policy-related fields as there is a growing demand towards administrators and analysts who are equipped with theoretical and practical policy knowledge. More and more administrators are required to understand not only the complexity of a given issue, but also the finer details, including construction or interpretation of policy analyses. Graduates of the MAPP program at Monmouth University find themselves prepared to begin or continue in a career armed with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed.

GPN: Do you have any advice for our readers on choosing an MPA program?

Students interested in policy-related graduate programs should find one that aligns with their educational and career goals. Prospective applicants should investigate the course offerings and faculty, making sure they will receive the type of education they want. Furthermore, they should also be aware of the career placements of recent graduates.  These are the best two indicators a prospective graduate student will be able to use to ascertain the suitability of a program. One thing to avoid would be picking a program out of convenience; it may equate to a setback more so than an advancement.

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