Dartmouth University

What you'll study

This master's balances core training in policy analysis with electives and an applied capstone. Core modules typically include:

• Quantitative Methods for Policy — regression, causal inference, experimental and quasi-experimental design, and working with administrative and survey data.
• Microeconomics and Public Policy — market failures, public goods, incentives and economic reasoning for policy design.
• Program Evaluation and Impact Assessment — evaluation frameworks, randomised controlled trials, difference-in-differences and propensity score methods.
• Cost–Benefit and Cost-Effectiveness Analysis — valuation of costs and benefits, discounting, and sensitivity analysis for policy appraisal.
• Policy Design and Implementation — regulatory instruments, stakeholder analysis, governance and implementation challenges.
• Ethics and Public Leadership — ethical frameworks, equity considerations and leadership in the public sphere.

Students can choose electives that reflect Dartmouth University's interdisciplinary strengths — for example public finance, health policy, environmental policy, data science for policy, or negotiation and organisational behaviour — and will complete an applied capstone project or practicum that places research skills in a real-world policy setting.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised undergraduate degree or equivalent. Successful candidates typically demonstrate:

• A solid academic record and relevant coursework, especially in quantitative subjects such as economics, statistics, mathematics or a related social science.
• Evidence of analytical ability — this can be shown through transcripts, prior research, professional experience or a quantitative portion of the application.
• A personal statement outlining policy interests and career goals, a current CV, and academic or professional references.
• Proof of English language proficiency if your first language is not English, according to the university's standard requirements.

Admissions are competitive and take into account the overall strength of an applicant's profile, including relevant work experience in public service, NGOs, or research roles. Some applicants with strong professional backgrounds but non-traditional academic histories may be considered.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to careers across the public, private and non-profit sectors. Typical roles include policy analyst, programme evaluator, data analyst for policy teams, policy adviser in government departments, researcher at think tanks, consultant in public-sector advisory firms, and positions with international organisations and NGOs. The programme's emphasis on applied methods and a capstone practicum helps students build a portfolio of real-world work that employers look for when recruiting for analytical and advisory roles.

Why study at Dartmouth University

Dartmouth University offers a compact, collaborative learning environment that emphasises close faculty mentoring and interdisciplinary connections. Students benefit from cross-school collaboration — enabling access to expertise in economics, environmental studies, health policy and business — and from opportunities for hands-on learning through practicum placements and policy partnerships. Career services and alumni networks support students seeking roles in government, research organisations and consultancy, while the programme's applied focus prepares graduates to move quickly from analysis to actionable policy solutions.