Saint Anselm College is excited to announce its newest graduate program: a 4+1 Master’s in Public Policy. Saint Anselm College students may apply now to begin classes for the spring 2025 semester. Applications are due November 1

In an increasingly complex and divisive world, thoughtful leaders and policymakers are needed now more than ever to address critical challenges such as social inequality, economic development, and environmental sustainability. The Master's in Public Policy is designed to provide students with the tools, strategic thinking, and leadership skills needed to influence public decisions and shape the future.

With the New Hampshire Institute of Politics serving as a living laboratory, the Saint Anselm MPP will enhance an understanding of policy dynamics and help shape a student's ability to make a tangible difference in the world.

“Students at Saint Anselm College are exceptional in their commitment to building strong communities,” said Professor Jennifer Lucas, Ph.D., co-director Master’s in Public Policy and Professor of Politics. “Our Master in Public Policy degree supports those ambitions, preparing graduates from all majors with valuable skills as they pursue meaningful lifelong work to promote the common good in their communities.”

With a graduate degree in public policy, students can find themselves in a range of career outcomes from a community development coordinator to an education policy specialist to a legislator. The program is open to students of any major but may be of particular interest to those majoring in:

 The curriculum will require the completion of 40 credit hours. 4+1 students complete a total of eight credits (two courses) spring semester of their senior year. The remaining 32 credits are taken at the graduate level over the following summer, fall, and spring terms.  There are two tracks: professional and thesis. Students in the professional track will complete an internship capstone, while those in the research track must complete a master’s thesis.

The program will feature courses like: PO500 Public Institutions and Policy Process, PH 610 Ethical Leadership, and AC 663 - Decision-making and Control in Government and Non-Profit.

For more information about the program visit the MPP website


The Master in Public Policy program is the third graduate program at the college. Saint Anselm offers current students, alumni, and general public a Master’s in Education with licensure in special education as well as a Master’s in Criminology and Criminal Justice

Learn more about Saint Anselm College’s graduate programs