Public Policy

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Public Policy

Drive positive change with inclusive and ethical policy

Shape the future through public policy. This program prepares you for a meaningful career in government, international organizations, NGOs, or the private sector, addressing a wide range of policy issues.

You’ll master quantitative and qualitative methods to define policy problems and analyze potential solutions, gain expertise in the issues that matter to you, and develop practical skills to effect change. And because the program is embedded within a school of international affairs, you have the option of an international track to enrich your global perspective.

Whether you’re driven by a passion for creating economic opportunity or affordable housing at the state and local level, addressing budget or welfare issues at the national level, or confronting global challenges, you’ll find the tools and support needed to make a difference.

Your future starts here

Shape tomorrow from a vibrant academic community full of opportunities — in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Career Outcomes

Flexible Curriculum

Experiential Learning

Denver Lifestyle

Prepare to go far

93% of Korbel graduates are employed, continuing their education, or volunteering/engaging in service within 12 months of graduation.

Korbel Graduate Employment Data

Public Policy graduates are in demand

You’ll find them working in city, state, and national governments, international organizations, NGOs, and private businesses.
They become policy analysts, legislative advisors, public affairs specialists, government relations officers, and economic policy consultants.

Where recent alumni make an impact

Shape your experience

Arrive with a plan, or let your curiosity guide you. Our flexible programs give you the freedom to choose a national or international path, change directions as your interests evolve, or hone in on a customized specialization.

Build a strong foundation

Start with 12 credits of required coursework, designed to ground you in your discipline.

Core courses

PPOL 4200 – Microeconomics for Public Policy
PPOL 4400 – Intro to Policy Analysis
PPOL 4500 – Cost Benefit Analysis

Skills courses

PPOL 4352– Data, Evidence, and Public Policy (2 credits)
PPOL 4353 – Policy Writing (2 credits)
INTS 4057 – Statistics (4 credits)
A total of 4 more credits (in the form of one 4-credit or two 2-credit skills courses) of INTS or PPOL skills coursework

Become an expert

Form a customized specialization (3 courses) then dig deeper into your studies through a Public Policy capstone project.

Use your remaining credits to focus on a national or international track, increase your skills, pursue a certificate, or engage in various experiential learning opportunities.

Certificates

Global Health Affairs
Global Justice
Homeland Security
Humanitarian Assistance
Public Diplomacy
Religion & International Affairs
Strategic Intelligence

Download our degree information sheet below for a comprehensive look at the full program requirements.

Program Details

Get outside the classroom

Hands-on experience is essential to your success. You’ll find an abundance of opportunities to develop your professional skills and explore career paths.

Apply your knowledge with internships

Build experience across city, state, and national government agencies, international organizations, global NGOs, and the private sector. With guidance from our career coaches, you’ll land positions that align with your skills and interests.

Immerse yourself in simulation exercises

Join one of our simulations for a taste of on-the-ground realities in an interactive environment. From negotiating international conflicts to managing humanitarian crises, these engaging scenarios are a highlight for Korbel students.

Study away to expand your perspective

Korbel students have the opportunity to study in vibrant cities like Rio de Janeiro, Geneva, Vienna, and Washington, D.C. These experiences offer rich firsthand experience and insights, all at no additional tuition cost.

Dive into research that makes a difference

At Korbel, research directly contributes to real-world impact. Many students engage in applied research at our Pardee Institute for International Futures, serving clients like the US government, the United Nations, and the Africa Union.

Learn More

Enjoy the Denver difference

Balance your graduate work with an active outdoor lifestyle in the Mile-High City. Take advantage of a vibrant art, music, and food scene — while enjoying Colorado’s 300 days of sunshine each year.

“Hottest U.S. labor market”

ADP, 2024

#13 Most Fun Cities in America

WalletHub, December 2024

#1 “Hottest Music Venues in the Country” — Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater

Rolling Stone, April 2023

#7 “Top U.S. Cities for Active Lifestyles”

WalletHub, April 2024

I arrived at Korbel with vast dreams for an impactful career without knowing how to manifest them. At every turn since, professors, classmates, career center staff, and alumni have met my ambitions with critical opportunities I did not anticipate but have changed my life for the better.

Halle Catalina Brown, Master of Pubic Policy 2022

I chose Korbel's Master of Public Policy program because it aligns perfectly with my goals of addressing social welfare issues. The program has sharpened my analytical skills and broadened my understanding of how progressive policies can transform lives.

Kwaku Ameyaw, Master of Public Policy, Expected Graduation 2026

Faculty you’ll work with

Our faculty are leading economists, political scientists, and sociologists who work on international trade, finance, and economic development. They have extensive real-world experience as practitioners and advisors to the United Nations, the World Bank, the World Trade Organization, national and state governments, and the private sector.