Master of Public Informatics

The MPI degree will be valuable asset for those seeking to advance their careers in informatics, data science, analytics and applied AI leadership:

1. The MPI degree provides an excellent and unique curriculum for the study of advanced data science, analytics, informatics and AI topics.
2. MPI program graduates will have a distinguished standing as a part of Rutgers, a globally reputed top ranked University.
3. The MPI program runs small cohorts with a diverse student population and a strong international participation, leading to peer learning opportunities.
4. The MPI program offers numerous specializations including GIS, Transportation, Energy, Robotics, Data Visualization, Healthcare and Artificial Intelligence.
5. The MPI program is flexible and allows for the development of customized concentration and students may be allowed to substitute courses upon meeting requirements.
6. The Bloustein School offers a great student supportive environment, and students will have opportunities through the Public Informatics Students Group (PISG).
7. Given the vast academic and professional networks associated with Rutgers, students will have increased opportunities for internships, practical training (3-year STEM OPT for international students) and jobs. This includes optional career support activities and training as well.
8. The Bloustein School has many distinguished faculty and well-established centers – skilled students will have opportunities to work on real-world projects, research initiatives and other projects at these centers and labs at the school, and across Rutgers University.
9. Upon graduation, MPI graduates can be proud for a lifetime to be recognized as belonging to the strong Rutgers alumni network and the vast possibilities associated with it!

The MPI program aims to identify and welcome students who can be successful in this rigorous STEM designated program and in their subsequent careers in informatics, data science, analytics and AI leadership.

The Rutgers MPI program is suitable for students with undergraduate degrees in any field with necessary quantitative skills.  Applicants who are familiar with one or more programming languages and data management (through coursework, work experience, or certifications) may be given priority.

It is anticipated that most full-time students will complete the 36 credit hours required for the degree in three (3) semesters. Please see “Full-Time Pathway Options” for more details and options. The MPI program accepts both full-time and part-time candidates.

The MPI degree can be completed full-time in three (3) semesters or four (4) semesters, 1.5 years (18 months) or 2 years (24 months). Working professionals may also choose the executive pathway, allowing them the flexibility to take two or three courses per semester – this provides the much needed flexibility for working professionals to customize and adapt the MPI academic schedule to their individual needs.

1. Students completing the program in three (3) semesters will follow the standard path (fall-spring-fall OR spring-fall-spring.) Each semester would contain 12 credits, totaling 36. Additional (or replacement) Summer or Winter credits for internships, courses or directed studies may be allowed for students on institutional pathways or via prior approvals.
2. Students completing the program in a maximum of four (4) semesters will follow the alternate path (fall-spring, fall-spring OR spring-fall, spring-fall). Each semester would contain nine (9) to twelve (12) credits, and students will work with their advisors and seek the MPI program director’s approval to finalize a sequence of courses which will cover 36 (minimum credits) to 48 (maximum credits) and appropriate focus on customized aspects of their study, such as concentrations or extended directed studies. Additional (or replacement) Summer or Winter credits for internships, courses or directed studies may be allowed for students on institutional pathways or via prior approvals.
3. International students must take the program full-time in one of the two pathways outlined above, with at least 9 total credits every semester, that includes six (6) in-person or official hybrid credits (ie. 2 in-person or official hybrid courses.) The only exception is for the final semester, such as if they have less than 9 total required credits remaining, they can seek documentation and approval from Rutgers Global to substantiate the reduction in credits that final term.
4. Dual degrees and concentrations may require additional credits or semesters.
5. Students taking either the standard or alternate path MUST fill out an anticipated pathway advising plan (form available from the Office of Student and Academic.) If a student desires to change the pathway during the course of their academic program, they must resubmit a new form for approval.