Admissions Open 2024

M.A. Public  Policy (Online)

M.A. Public Policy

ONLINE | POWERED BY COURSERA

About The Programme

The M.A. Public Policy (Online) programme, offered by Jindal School of Government and Public Policy (JSGP), provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate complex policy environments. The programme is designed with an interdisciplinary approach to studying and analyzing contemporary policy issues, particularly in the development and institutional contexts of the Global South. Students have the flexibility to choose courses that align with their interests and intellectual curiosity, allowing them to develop expertise in their chosen domains.

The online programme is recognized by the University Grants Commission of India and is a suitable option for working professionals who wish to equip themselves with the knowledge and skills needed to undertake policy analysis, policy formulation, monitoring, and assessment. The programme is hosted on Coursera, and the curriculum has been adapted for global enrolment, enabling students from around the world to participate.

What is Public Policy?

Public policy is the set of actions or decisions that governments take to address various issues or problems in society.

One of the ways to learn more about public policy courses online is to pursue an online masters in public policy. Public Policy online is a degree program that provides students with the knowledge and skills to analyze, design, and evaluate public policies.

One of the best online Masters in public policy is offered by reputable and accredited institutions, such as O.P. Jindal Global University.

Scope of MA in Public Policy

If you are interested in pursuing public policy course online and want to learn from the best faculty and experts in the field, you should consider enrolling in the M.A. in Public Policy online programme offered by the Jindal School of Government and Public Policy (JSGP). This program is one of the most comprehensive and rigorous online public policy courses in India, covering various aspects of policy analysis, design, implementation, and evaluation.

Benefits of the Course

Pursuing an online Master's in Public Policy from a reputed institution like O.P. Jindal Global University has several benefits. Firstly, it provides an opportunity to learn from experienced faculty and experts in the field, who have a deep understanding of policy analysis, design, implementation, and evaluation. Secondly, the program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education in public policy, which enables them to understand the complexities of policymaking and its impact on society.

What Makes It Different at JGU

The M.A. Public Policy programme at JSGP offers several salient features that distinguish it from other programmes. The programme boasts a faculty with a mix of academics and policy-practitioners, with rich teaching and research experience, and international exposure. This ensures that students receive a global and contemporary curriculum that balances theoretical rigour with policy practice.

The programme offers a grounding in economics, political science, philosophy, ethics, and sociology for policy analysis, design, and development delivery. This comprehensive approach equips students with the knowledge and skills required to be successful public policy analysts and development practitioners.
It also offers a wide range of specializations, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. This emphasis on skill sets required for specific careers ensures that students are well-prepared for their future roles in the public, private, or non-profit sectors.

To apply for the online M.A. Public Policy programme, prospective students must hold an undergraduate degree from a recognized university, either in India or abroad. The admission process consists of a review of academic transcripts, a goals essay, and a policy essay, as well as the completion of the M.A. Public Policy Admissions form. This application form includes basic personal information, proof of identity, prior qualifications, and several directed questions.

The programme has two cohorts each year, beginning in March and September. The application deadline is August 15 for the Fall cohort and February 15 for the Spring cohort. Interested applicants can visit the programme’s Coursera webpage at https://www.coursera.org/degrees/ma-public-policy-jgu for more information on the early decision application deadline and a link to apply.

Elective Courses

Students must complete at least three elective courses, chosen from a range of options that cover various policy areas, including health, education, environment, energy, and more. Some of the electives offered in the programme are:

  • Education Policy and Planning
  • Environmental Policy and Governance
  • Health and Social Policy
  • Energy Policy and Climate Change
  • Public-Private Partnerships and Infrastructure
  • Public Policy Analysis and Implementation
  • Digital Governance and Technology Policy
  • Ethics and Public Policy
  • Conflict, Security and Human Rights

Projects

The group project requires students to work on a policy challenge and produce a report that analyses the issue and proposes policy solutions. The solo project is an opportunity for students to apply their learning to a specific policy problem or issue of their choice.

The online M.A. Public Policy programme is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in policy theory, along with the analytical and practical skills required to be successful in the policy-making process. Through a carefully structured curriculum and a range of elective courses, students can tailor their learning to their specific interests and career goals. The two projects, including a group and solo project, offer students practical experience in policy analysis and formulation, enabling them to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world challenges.

  1. Economic Policy and Reforms
  2. Analytical Techniques
  3. Environment Policy
  4. Social Policy
  5. Land, Labour and Urban Development
  6. Governance

Graduates of the M.A. Public Policy programmes offered by Jindal School of Government and Public Policy (JSGP) are well-equipped to pursue a variety of career paths.

With a strong grounding in policy analysis, formulation, monitoring, and evaluation skills, graduates can work in development and public policy organisations, CSR initiatives, academic institutions, think tanks, NGOs, media, and political organizations. The programme also provides an excellent foundation for those wishing to pursue a PhD, broadly within the field of Development Studies or within one of the more specialized fields of Economics, Political Science or Sociology.

Graduates can acquire the knowledge and skills needed for working as policy analysts and independent consultants for government and nongovernmental organizations. Overall, the programme opens up a wide range of opportunities to serve in the development and policy sectors.

The online MA Public Policy programme provides working professionals with the opportunity to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to undertake policy analysis, formulation, monitoring, and evaluation.

This programme enriches their professional development and prepares them for more challenging roles in public and corporate careers.

FAQ's

1. What is the scope of an Online Masters in Public Policy in India?

An Online Masters in Public Policy (MPP) in India is a valuable degree that equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to analyze and address complex policy issues. Graduates of MPP programs are in demand in a variety of sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. They can work in a variety of roles, including policy analysts, research associates, consultants, and program managers. The demand for MPP graduates is expected to grow in the coming years as the Indian government continues to focus on economic and social development.

2. What universities offer the best Online Masters in Public Policy and Governance in India?

Some of the top universities that offer Online Masters in Public Policy and Governance in India include:

Jindal School of Government and Public Policy (JSGP), O.P. Jindal Global University: JSGP is a leading institution for public policy education in India. The school’s online MPP program is highly regarded for its rigorous curriculum, experienced faculty, and strong alumni network.
National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP): NIPFP is a premier research institution in India that also offers an online MPP program. The program is known for its focus on economic policy and its strong research orientation.
Centre for Policy Research (CPR): CPR is a leading think tank in India that offers an online MPP program in collaboration with Ashoka University. The program is known for its emphasis on practical policy analysis and its strong connections to the policymaking community.

3. What are the admission requirements for an Online Masters in Public Policy at Jindal School of Government and Public Policy (JSGP)?

The admission requirements for the online MPP program at JSGP are as follows:

Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university with a minimum of 50% marks
Strong academic record
Relevant work experience (desirable but not mandatory)
Good command of English
Successful completion of the JSGP Admissions Test (JSAT)

4. What is the course structure for the MPP program at JSGP?

The online MPP program at JSGP is a two-year program that consists of core courses, electives, and a capstone project. The core courses provide students with a foundation in public policy theory and analysis. The electives allow students to specialize in areas of their interest, such as development policy, environmental policy, or social policy. The capstone project is a hands-on research project that allows students to apply their knowledge to a real-world policy issue.

5. What are the career opportunities available after a Masters degree in Public Policy?

Graduates of MPP programs have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. They can work in a variety of roles in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Some of the specific career paths that graduates may choose include:

Policy analyst: Policy analysts analyze public policy issues and develop recommendations for policymakers.
Research associate: Research associates conduct research on public policy issues and prepare reports for policymakers and researchers.
Consultant: Consultants provide expert advice to governments, businesses, and non-profit organizations on public policy issues.
Program manager: Program managers oversee the implementation of public policy programs.