Public Policy and Administration (MA)
Part of the Faculty of Arts
Format: Full-time, Part-time
Degree Earned: Master of Arts
Launched in 2005, this program offers students the unparalleled advantage of engaging with public, non-profit and private sector organizations in Canada’s largest metropolis. Our downtown Toronto location is a significant asset in supporting student research, networking and elective placement/internship opportunities. In 2007-08, the program received the highest possible evaluation from an Ontario Council of Graduate Schools (OCGS) review, and in 2008 was the first program in Canada to earn accreditation from the Canadian Association of Programs in Public Administration (CAPPA). The program is offered in full- and part-time options.
MA
- Completion of a four-year undergraduate (or equivalent) degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA or equivalent of 3.00/4.33 (B) in the last two years of study (3.33/4.33 GPA (B+) strongly recommended)
- Statement of interest
- Resumé/CV
- Transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation
- English language proficiency requirement
More information on admission requirements. Due to the competitive nature of our programs, it is not possible to offer admission to everyone who applies that meets the minimum entrance requirements for the program.
Students are encouraged to submit applications prior to the first consideration date to increase their chances of securing financial support for their graduate studies. Applications received after the first consideration date will be accepted and reviewed based on spaces remaining in the program.
See application dates.
For detailed graduate tuition and fees information please visit Fees by Program.
For information on scholarships, awards and financing your graduate studies visit Financing Your Studies.
- Global policy and development
- Governance and citizenship
- Public administration
- Public policy
In addition to core faculty from the Department of Politics and Public Administration, the program includes adjunct faculty from a variety of graduate programs who contribute to a richer graduate education.
Affiliated faculty with practitioner backgrounds from different sectors add an experiential dimension to the curriculum. Currently, the MA program benefits from an Ontario Public Service Fellow and a Public Servant-inResidence. The program also has access to deputy minister champions from the Ontario and federal governments.
- Citizen-Oriented Governance in Canada
- Indigenous Law and Policy in Canada
- International Development Policy and Politics
- Policy Analysis and Challenges
- Public Administration and Governance
- Public Sector: Diversity and Equity
- Research Methods
- Urban Governance
Public Policy and Administration (MA) graduate program calendar
- Competitive entrance scholarships, teaching and research assistantships for eligible full-time students
- Downtown Toronto location enables students to network with leaders in the public, non-profit and private sectors
Graduate Admissions
Admissions information and how to apply
Graduate Studies Admissions Office
11th Floor, 1 Dundas Street West
Toronto, ON
Telephone: 416-979-5150
Email: gradhelp@torontomu.ca
For information specific to programs, please see the program contact information below.
Program Contacts
Dr. Christopher Gore
Graduate Program Director
Telephone: 416-979-5000 ext. 552703
Email: chris.gore@torontomu.ca
Julia Macan
Graduate Program Administrator
Telephone: 416-979-5000 ext. 557855
Email: gradmppa@torontomu.ca
“[TMU]’s MPPA program helped cultivate a skill set that opened the door to many opportunities I otherwise would not have had. The program combines theoretical content and practical application of public sector issues while learning from leading scholars and senior public servants. I could not have made a better decision to launch my career in the public service.”
(external link)
Student Profile (external link)
Tara Muzumdar (master of public policy and administration alumna) reflects on how the program gave her an excellent understanding of policy development and decision-making processes within government, resulting in her securing a policy advisor role with the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.
Once you’ve made an informed choice about which program(s) you are going to apply to, preparing your application requires careful research and planning.
Funding
At Toronto Metropolitan University, we understand that pursuing graduate studies is a significant financial investment. Funding comes from a combination of employment contracts (as a teaching assistant), scholarships, awards and stipends. There are a number of additional funding sources – internal and external – available to graduate students that can increase these funding levels.
Research
As an urban innovation university, Toronto Metropolitan University offers 60+ cutting-edge, career-oriented graduate programs, as well as 125+ research centres, institutes and labs, in a wide range of disciplines. Our close connections with industry, government and community partners provide opportunities to apply your knowledge to real-world challenges and make a difference.