University of Texas at Austin

Overview

The Engineering and Public Affairs MEng/MPAff dual degree at The University of Texas at Austin offers a unique opportunity to blend graduate studies in engineering with advanced training in public affairs. This program is designed to equip students with the skills needed to address complex societal challenges through a multidisciplinary approach. Students will engage in structured internships and thesis work, integrating practical experience with academic learning.

What you'll study

The program typically spans 36 months and includes a coordinated curriculum from both the LBJ School of Public Affairs and the School of Engineering. Key components of the program include:

• Year 1: A full academic year focused on public affairs coursework, culminating in a required summer internship with a government agency or organization focused on public policy.
• Year 2: An academic year dedicated to engineering coursework, followed by thesis research in the subsequent summer.
• Completion Phase: Finalizing remaining LBJ School requirements and completing the engineering master’s thesis.

Core Topics Include:

• Advanced Policy Economics
• Advanced Empirical Methods for Policy Analysis
• Applied Microeconomics for Policy Analysis
• Policy Research Project
• Policy Development
• Engineering-focused graduate coursework
• Public Financial Management
• Public Management

The culmination of the program is a master’s thesis in engineering, supported by the policy and methods training acquired during the dual-degree coursework.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Engineering and Public Affairs MEng/MPAff dual degree is competitive and requires applicants to meet specific academic and English-language standards, along with providing various application materials.

Academic requirements:

• GPA: A strong undergraduate academic record is essential, with minimum GPA expectations set by UT Austin for the graduate program.
• Standardized tests: GRE scores are required as part of the application process.

English requirements:

• TOEFL iBT: A minimum score of 79 is required.
• IELTS: A minimum score of 6.5 is required.

Application materials:

• Complete the ApplyTexas application
• Pay the application fee
• Submit official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions
• Provide three letters of recommendation
• Include a current résumé
• Write a personal statement or statement of purpose

Career prospects

Graduates of the Engineering and Public Affairs dual degree program are well-equipped for careers that require a blend of technical engineering skills and public policy expertise. They may find opportunities in various sectors, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private industry, where they can influence policy decisions and implement engineering solutions to societal challenges.