Cornell University's MPA program has long been popular among international students. The Cornell Institute for Public Affairs (CIPA), one of Cornell's three graduate schools, is a rapidly growing school. As an Ivy League institution, Cornell boasts alumni connections with global elite networks. Below is a detailed introduction to Cornell's MPA program, covering curriculum, career paths after graduation, application requirements, and more.
About Cornell University
Founded in 1865, Cornell's main campus is located in Ithaca, New York (about a four-hour drive northwest of New York City). Compared to the typically more crowded universities in the northeastern U.S., Cornell features scenic lakes and mountains, presenting a spacious and grand atmosphere.
Cornell is a top-tier private research university in the U.S. and a member of the Ivy League. Everything at the university pushes you to achieve your academic and life aspirations. Cornell's College of Engineering, College of Agriculture, and the School of Hotel Administration under its business school are all highly renowned. In the 2023 U.S. News Best College Rankings, Cornell ranks 17th nationally, and it ranks 20th in the 2023 QS World University Rankings.
Cornell MPA Program Analysis
Master of Public Administration
MPA
Cornell University's MPA program is a two-year graduate program offered by the Cornell Institute for Public Affairs (CIPA), housed within the Brooks School of Public Policy. It is an 18-month on-campus degree program suitable for students aspiring to enter or transition into industries such as consulting, finance, management, economic analysis, and public relations.
The program aims to prepare students for management and leadership roles in public service. Cornell's MPA focuses on building skills in management, economics and finance, and quantitative analysis.
Cornell MPA Curriculum
Cornell's MPA program spans two years and offers eight concentrations to choose from:
- Economic and Financial Policy
- Environmental Policy
- Government, Politics, and Policy Studies
- Human Rights and Social Justice
- International Development Studies
- Public and Nonprofit Management
- Science, Technology, and Infrastructure Policy
- Social Policy
This means students can delve deeply into areas of personal interest. However, I strongly recommend choosing a concentration with employment in mind. After all, policy areas differ significantly across finance, technology, education, and other sectors. Using graduate coursework to directly link to future industries and roles is a powerful foundation for strengthening career competitiveness.
Career Development for Cornell MPA Graduates
After graduation, most students work in the public sector, private corporations, and nonprofit organizations, with the former two accounting for larger shares. Examples include analysts at the New York Housing and Economic Development Working Group, researchers at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, positions at the World Bank consulting department, and roles in foreign ministries.
Application Requirements for Cornell's MPA Program
IELTS 7.5 (with 7.0 in each section), TOEFL 100, GRE not required;
Below is a sample Cornell MPA Offer～
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