Public Policy
The flexible nature of the program allows you to choose your own path in areas that most interest you—from microeconomic research to international development to climate change. Whichever program track you choose—economics, politics & institutions, judgment and decision sciences, and science, technology, and policy—you will have the opportunity to conduct scholarly research using the vast resources of Harvard University.
Students in the program have been involved in many diverse projects such as water research allocation in Zambia, racial disparities in the criminal justice system in Massachusetts, and the politics of the American welfare state.
Graduates of the program have gone on to teach at MIT, Duke, University of Texas, Penn State, and Yale. Others now have influential positions with NGOs like Resources for the Future, private institutions like JP Morgan and Analysis Group, and multi-lateral organizations like the World Bank and Global Innovation Fund. Among many illustrious graduates of the program is Larry Bacow, president of Harvard University.
Additional information on the graduate program is available from the Public Policy Program and requirements for the degree are detailed in GSAS Policies.
Admissions Requirements
Please review GSAS admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the Public Policy Program.
Academic Background
Applicants apply to one of the specific tracks listed below. Visit the Public Policy program site to review the track-specific admissions prerequisites.
- Economics
- Judgment and Decision Making
- Politics and Institutions
- Science, Technology and Policy Studies
Writing Sample
A writing sample is required as part of the application and should be no more than 20 pages long. The writing sample must be single-authored and written in English.
Standardized Tests
GRE General: Required
Writing Sample: Required
iBT TOEFL minimum score: 103
IELTS minimum score: 7
Theses & Dissertations
Theses & Dissertations for Public Policy