MAPP FAQs

The Master of Applied Public Policy is a graduate program designed to equip students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to address complex public policy challenges. It combines policy analysis, research methods, strategic thinking, and leadership skills to prepare students for or enhance careers in the public and private sectors alike.

• Policy Analysis and Evaluation: Develop the ability to assess and design public policies using qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Leadership and Decision-making: Sharpen skills in leadership, negotiation, and policy advocacy facilitated by proven leadership within the public policy profession.
• Practical Application: Learn to apply policy concepts to ongoing issues where you live or to ongoing policy issues at your work, guided by distinguished policy professionals in the Intermountain West.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: Draw on insights from economics, sociology, law, political science, and public administration to understand and shape policy.

The College of Idaho’s MAPP program is designed for:

• Aspiring policy professionals who want to work in public service, NGOs, think tanks, international organizations, or private sector policy consulting or corporate strategy.
• Individuals with backgrounds in political science, economics, sociology, law, or related fields, though applicants from diverse academic disciplines are welcome.
• Mid-career professionals looking to pivot into policy work or enhance their policy-related skillset.

The MAPP program typically covers the following core areas:

• Public Policy Theory and Practice: An overview of policy development processes, including theory, ethics, and frameworks for analysis.
• Quantitative and Qualitative Methods: Training in research methods, data analysis, and evaluation techniques used in policy analysis.
• Policy Economics and Finance: Understanding economic principles, budget analysis, and the financial aspects of policymaking.
• State and Local Policy: Exploring state and local issues impacting the Intermountain West region as an exemplar that can apply to other local, state, regional or national issues.
• Advocacy and Communication: Strategies for communicating policy issues effectively to stakeholders and the public.

National, state and local government offices, including a wide range of government agencies, international organizations, nonprofit organizations and for-profit companies are currently seeking public policy professionals.  Graduates of The College of Idaho’s MAPP program can pursue a variety of career paths, including but not limited to:

• Public Policy Analyst: Conducting research and providing recommendations to governments, corporations, nonprofit organizations, or think tanks.
• Policy Advisor/Consultant: Advising government officials, legislators, or corporations on policy decisions.
• Public Affairs Specialist: Managing communication between government entities, media, and the public.
• Program Manager/Coordinator: Leading public policy programs or initiatives for nonprofits or international organizations.
• Advocacy and Lobbying: Representing organizations in policy discussions with government agencies, legislators, and other stakeholders.
• Corporate Strategy: Developing and leading business strategy in response to or in connection with critical public policy issues and in consideration of the broader societal impact of the company’s business operations.

Yes and no.  The College’s MAPP program is a hybrid program, offering instruction predominately online, but also requiring in-person gatherings, roughly once per week for each course, with your faculty and cohort. This flexibility is particularly useful for working professionals who want to pursue the degree while maintaining their current jobs. Notably, each cohort of students travels through the MAPP program together – throughout the entirety of the program. Learning policy, ethics and leadership from the shared experience of your peers is an intentional and vital part of The College of Idaho’s MAPP program.

The in-person gatherings for our MAPP program are held roughly once per week for each course at a location at or near downtown Boise.

The College’s MAPP program is 36 credits or 12 courses. Students take two courses per 10-week term over six terms, completing the degree in just 18 months.  Our MAPP program launches a new cohort each fall. Each cohort travels through the MAPP program together for its entirety, generating a community of learners through shared experience.

The College of Idaho’s MAPP program is one of the most affordable public policy-related degree programs in the country. Our team took great care in crafting a rigorous, high-quality program, but with cost in mind, to ensure that its program is accessible.  As a graduate degree program, financial aid is available, and The College of Idaho offers scholarships for eligible students.

Since its founding in 1891, The College of Idaho has embodied the mantra of its founding President William Judson Boone: “Let them come, let them all come, and we will see what they can do.”  The College therefore focuses on affordability for all of its programs to ensure cost isn’t a barrier to access to an excellent education. 

If you're passionate about shaping policy, addressing societal issues, improving the public good and leading businesses in our ever-changing society, then The College of Idaho’s MAPP program is a great fit for you.

While both degrees focus on public policy, the Master of Public Policy (MPP) is often more theoretical and analytical, emphasizing rigorous academic research, policy theory, and public administration. On the other hand, the Master of Applied Public Policy (MAPP) provides a more practical, hands-on approach, preparing students for direct work in the policy field through contemporary policy issues, case studies and applied projects with local organizations and agencies.