3-1-1 Bachelors / Master of Public Policy Program between the Bloustein School and Rutgers Undergraduate Colleges

The Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, in cooperation with the School of Arts and Sciences and the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, offers a joint program that enables students to earn the Bachelor of Arts or Science and Master of Public Policy degrees in five years of full-time enrollment rather than the normal six. This (3-1-1) five-year program gives exemplary students the opportunity to complete their liberal arts education while preparing for a career in public policy or politics.

During the first three years of their undergraduate education, students will complete most of their major and general studies requirements. They may apply for admission to the joint program in February of their junior year. Admitted students will be allowed to take up to 15 graduate credits in the Public Policy Program over the course of their senior year of undergraduate study. The graduate credits will be applied toward both degrees. Upon completion of the BA or BS degree, students will automatically matriculate into the graduate program with advanced standing.

In the summer after graduation, students must participate in an applied field experience (internship) at a public agency, non-profit organization, or private firm working on public issues. Students receive six graduate credits for the internship. During their fifth year, students will complete their graduate studies and, upon fulfilling all requirements, receive the MPP degree.

Advantages of the Five Year Program
During their senior year, students receive the benefit of undergraduate tuition rates while taking graduate courses, thus reducing the cost of the two degrees. Graduates with MPP degrees work in important and varied positions in the field of public affairs, including the staffs of several governors, members of the United States House of Representatives and Senate, state legislatures, and in federal and state executive agencies. Many graduates also work in the private sector, including business, banking, the law, and non-profit organizations.

Admission
The joint program is competitive and highly selective. Successful applicants for admission will have a GPA of 3.5 or more, exceptional GRE scores, a dedication to public service and outstanding recommendations. Interested students who fulfill the above qualifications should contact Professor Jocelyn Crowley at (732) 932-2499 ext. 872 or jocelync@rutgers.edu to discuss the program and come in for an interview.

Students who apply for the joint program must do so by paper application. To begin that process, contact Lynn Astorga, Coordinator for Graduate Student Services at lastorga@rutgers.edu or 732-932-5475 ext. 740.

The application requires transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, GRE scores and a resume. Your personal statement for the application should indicate that you are applying to the BA or BS/MPP Program. Paper applications are collected and held and not formally processed until the final year of graduate study.

Sample Program of Study for the 3-1-1-B.A.-B.S. / M.P.P. Program

*The MPP degree requires 45 graduate credits.