A young man with a green plaid shirt is listening attentively in a classroom setting.
NewNew

Master in Public Policy

Lead with insight. Govern with purpose.
A logo featuring the words 'Political Intelligence' with a checkered pattern.
This image features a minimalistic logo of PwC against a black background.
duration10 months
languageEnglish
locationMadrid + One-week international field trip
intakeSeptember
MODE OF STUDYIn-person
FormatFull-time

MASTER IN PUBLIC POLICY

Today’s rapidly evolving world demands leaders who can go beyond theory to drive real, measurable impact. The Master in Public Policy (MPP) is a forward-looking, hands-on program that prepares future changemakers to design, implement, and evaluate effective public policies at the intersection of government, business, and society. Combining analytical rigor, strategic leadership, and immersive learning, the Master in Public Policy equips students with the tools and mindset to navigate complex challenges—from digital disruption to climate transition and institutional reform. The program is ideal for purpose-driven individuals aiming to work across sectors in roles that require both critical thinking and actionable solutions.

Developed and delivered by IE University’s School of Politics, Economics & Global Affairs (SPEGA)—a member of NASPAA, APSIA, ECPR, and CIVICA—the Master in Public Policy connects you to a global network of public and private partners, with capstone opportunities, real-world simulations, and mentoring from senior policy practitioners.

Students can tailor their journey through one of three specializations:

Environment, Energy & Sustainability, Digital Transformation, and European Union Affairs—all addressing today’s most urgent policy frontiers.

If you're ready to lead with purpose and shape the future of public policy through evidence, innovation, and action, this program is built for you.

A modern conference room with a circular table and large windows, overlooking nature.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

GET TO KNOW THE PROGRAM

  • German Vivas
    German Vivas
    Senior Manager

    ANY DOUBTS?

    Schedule a personal consultation call with our Program Specialist and solve all your questions!

TOP 5 REASONS TO JOIN IE UNIVERSITY’S MASTER IN PUBLIC POLICY

  • 01.

    GAIN A TRULY GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE OF PUBLIC POLICY

    1. Collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds while learning from a prestigious, global faculty of policy practitioners and academics. You’ll develop a truly international perspective on policymaking, drawing on leading practices from Europe, North America, Asia and emerging markets to learn to navigate and influence policy across different political, economic and cultural contexts.
  • 02.

    Capstone Projects with Top Global Organizations

    Combine rigorous theoretical frameworks with real-world application by engaging in policy simulations and completing a practical capstone project—either working directly with real clients or launching your own entrepreneurial initiative. Our faculty of senior policymakers, seasoned public servants, analysts and private-sector leaders provides insider perspectives on contemporary policy dynamics.

  • 03.

    TAP INTO A GLOBAL NETWORK OF PUBLIC POLICY LEADERS AND INSTITUTIONS

    IE School of Politics, Economics & Global Affairs cultivates strong partnerships with top public policy organizations—from the United Nations and European Climate Foundation to the Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator (GESDA), Unión de Ciudades Iberoamericanas (UCCI), Google and PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC)—to offer you an in-depth understanding of the realities of public policy. You'll also be directly exposed to industry leaders and guest speakers, gaining outstanding opportunities for final projects, networking and employment. 

  • 04.

    DRIVE INNOVATION WHERE TECHNOLOGY MEETS POLICY

    Position yourself at the intersection of technology, governance and ethics, exploring how technological innovation can enhance policy efficiency and societal impact. Dive into key topics such as the ethical and strategic use of AI in policymaking and data-driven decision-making, and learn about regulatory frameworks for emerging technologies, digital governance models and leveraging innovation for more responsive, inclusive and evidence-based public policy design.

  • 05.

    SPECIALIZE YOUR SKILL SET

    Choose one of three unique specializations—Environment, Energy & Sustainability; Digital Transformation or European Union Affairs—or create your own personalized track from over 20 specialized courses. These key focus areas allow you to customize your learning experience according to your interests and career goals, equipping yourself to lead in your chosen policy field with purpose, expertise and confidence.

    THIS PROGRAM IS FOR YOU IF

    • …You want more than theory. 

      You’re looking for a globally connected program that offers practical experience and empowers you to design and implement real policy solutions—across public, private, and civic institutions.

    • ...You want to shape the future at the intersection of policy, technology, and society.

      You’re intrigued by how AI, sustainability, and geopolitics are rewriting the rules—and you want to be at the forefront, designing policies that are ethical, strategic, and future-ready.

    • ...You’re building a global career and need the tools, network, and mindset to match.

      Whether you're launching your path or shifting focus, you’re seeking a program that blends analytical rigor with leadership development and connects you to top-tier institutions across Europe and the world.

    CHOOSE YOUR PUBLIC POLICY PATHWAY

    With the Master in Public Policy (MPP), you’ll also specialize in one of three key areas of public policy that reflect today’s most urgent global challenges. Each specialization combines rigorous academic training with real-world application, preparing you to shape meaningful change across sectors.

    Developed in collaboration with top faculty, policy experts, and institutional partners, these tracks empower you to deepen your expertise in the areas that matter most—whether advancing the green transition, driving digital transformation, or contributing to the future of European governance. You’ll gain the analytical tools, strategic mindset, and hands-on experience needed to stand out in the public policy arena.

    • The image depicts a landscape with green hills and three wind turbines in the background under a clear blue sky.

      ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY

      Design cutting-edge policies for the green transition, tackling climate change, clean energy, and sustainable development across sectors.

    • The image showcases a digital map with a dark blue futuristic design.

      DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION & TECH POLICY

      Lead innovation in the public sector by crafting forward-looking policies on AI, data governance, and digital rights in an evolving tech landscape.

    • The image shows a modern building with multiple EU flags in front of it.

      EUROPEAN UNION POLICY

      Master the tools to navigate Europe’s complex policymaking system and shape the future of integration, regulation, and global leadership.

    OFFICIAL DEGREE

    Students must fulfill the following requirements to be able to request the issuance of the Official University Degree upon completion of the Master Program. If educational prerequisites are not provided and/or if the requirements are not met on time, the student will not be able to request the official university degree as issued by the Spanish government. In this case, the studies will not be official under Spanish educational regulations.

    APPLICABLE REGULATIONS OF THE PROGRAM

    DEGREE INFORMATION AND INTERNAL QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEM

    Leading Experts at IE University

    To enhance a dynamic and practical learning experience, at IE School of Politics, Economics & Global Affairs we focus on the continuous engagement and networking of our students by hosting events and welcoming top speakers from a diverse range of topics to shape the next generation of impactful global leaders.

    A promotional image for IE University's master's programs in politics, economics, and global affairs.

    Discover our events

    Everything you need to know about our Master in Public Policy

    Find More about our events

    We organize a wide range of events, from conferences and master classes, to networking and informative sessions.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Review our FAQ responses to better understand everything related to our Admission Processes.

    • A Master in Public Policy (MPP) is a graduate degree that prepares students to analyze, design, and implement policies that address social, economic, and political issues. It blends analytical training with real-world problem-solving for careers in government, nonprofits, and beyond.

    • Salaries range from $60,000 to $120,000+, depending on role, location, and experience.

    • Yes. The MPP program welcomes international students, offering global policy perspectives, visa support, and career services. The degree prepares graduates for impactful roles worldwide.

    • An MPP (Master of Public Policy) focuses on analyzing, designing, and evaluating public policies using data, research, and critical thinking. An MPA (Master of Public Administration) prepares students to lead, manage, and implement public programs and services.