MPM Frequently Asked Questions
When did the MPM program begin?
The MPM program was launched in Fall 2002 as part of a renewed university-wide effort to reach out to the public policy professional community. The MPM was conceived as a “mid-career” executive degree offering courses in policy analysis and public management.
What types of students are in the MPM program?
The typical MPM student is in his/her mid- to late-30s, has 7-10 years of professional experience after college and a demonstrated commitment to public service and interest in public policy. MPM students come from the public, private, and non-profit sectors.
Are all the students full-time?
No. In any given academic term, about half the students in the MPM program are full-time while the other half are part-time.
When are classes held?
Classes are typically held once a week in the evenings (typically beginning at 6:00 p.m.). The Public Policy Seminars are held monthly on Saturdays. The one component of the MPM program that is “residential” is the Summer Institute. There are two institutes (one focuses on the policy process, the other on leadership) and they each count for six credits. They are held over a two-consecutive-week period during the summer months.
Is there a thesis requirement?
MPM students sign up for PPOL 800, the Advanced Policy Management Project. Strictly speaking, it is not considered a “thesis” but rather a capstone strategy paper that gives the student an opportunity to analyze a public policy issue and offer a strategy for addressing it. Students work with faculty advisors.
Does GPPI accept transfer credit?
After satisfactory completion of at least 12 credits towards a Georgetown degree, a matriculated MPM student may make a written request to transfer credit for applicable courses taken at a) another institution or b) at Georgetown University prior to admission to a Georgetown Graduate Program. The applicability of courses and credit toward the student's degree program will be determined by the Graduate School, upon recommendation of the student's department or program. The number of transferable credits may not exceed 25% of the total number of credits required for the Georgetown degree. For the MPM, that translates into a maximum of 3 courses at 3 credits each. In general, applicable courses cannot be more than 7 years old, cannot have been part of a program in which the student already received a prior degree, and must have some relevance to the MPM curriculum.
Can I take a GPPI course without being enrolled in the program?
Sometimes, people have signed up for MPM courses as non-degree students as a way of learning more about the classes prior to making a firm decision to apply for formal admission. Students should be aware that taking courses toward the MPM degree without being formally admitted is considered “transferable credit” and follows the same rule. (Transferable credits cannot exceed 25% of the MPM curriculum). Any potential applicant considering this course of action should consult with the program director or associate program director.
How does class registration work?
MPM students work with the program director or associate program director to develop an appropriate course schedule before registration. Once an agreed-upon schedule is established, the student can simply register online.
Can I pass out of classes that I have already taken?
In some cases, MPM students who have taken graduate-level courses at other institutions in relevant areas have been permitted to pass out of certain requirements. This is handled on a case-by-case basis. Students should consult with the program director or associate program director.
Can I take courses outside GPPI while a GPPI student?
GPPI students are eligible to take any other courses offered on the Georgetown Main Campus and the Georgetown Law Campus as long as those courses are not closed, there is space, and they have obtained the professor's permission. Students typically take courses at the Law School, the School of Foreign Service, and the School of Business.
What are consortium classes and how can I enroll in them?
The Consortium of Washington Area Universities consists of American University, Catholic University, Gallaudet University, George Mason University, George Washington University, Georgetown University, Howard University, the University of the District of Columbia, and the University of Maryland at College Park. The Consortium of Universities provides cooperative arrangements for research, resources, and cross-registration of students from the member institutions.
Detailed procedures for Consortium registration are published in each semester's Schedule of Classes. Students wishing to take courses through the Consortium should first get information on the courses-- scheduled times, course numbers, course descriptions, availability to students from other institutions -- and review this information with the program director or the associate program director. If the course will meet GPPI requirements, students may then complete the Consortium Course Card available in the Registrar's office. Tuition for courses registered through the Consortium is billed at Georgetown University rates and paid to Georgetown University. Students cannot pre-register for Consortium courses; they must register during regular registration or during the add/drop period.
