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Frequently Asked Questions
Admissions Ratio
1. What is the amount of applications you receive?
Our program is highly competitive. Because we have rolling admissions, it is in the applicant's best interest to get their application in promptly before the July 1st deadline.
Admissions Process
1. Who is on the admissions committee?
The committee is comprised of several professors and administrators.
2. What criteria are used for admissions decisions?
The committee looks at all of the components of individual applications before arriving at a decision. This requires assessing how accurately and thoroughly the applicant has answered the questions provided for the personal statement portion, looking at a minimum of three recommendations, GRE scores (optional), the TOEFL (if required), and considering undergraduate transcripts as well as any graduate transcripts included optionally.
3. Does the EMPA have a waiting list?
The EMPA does have a waiting list. If an applicant is put on the waiting list, he or she will be notified and allowed to submit any additional materials he or she believes will enhance his or her application. They will be later informed of their decisions after admitted students have replied to their offers.
4. If I am accepted, may I defer for a year?
Deferral is possible for up to a year. The applicant must pay an additional non-refundable deposit to reserve their seat for the following year. Therefore, the applicant would return the response form sent with the admissions letter to the Picker Center with both the standard non-refundable deposit fee of $1,000 and the $1,000 non-refundable deposit fee for deferral. The $2,000 will count towards your tuition and fees upon official enrollment into the program.
5. When do application decisions become available?
Because it is rolling admissions, decision dates are not fixed. Generally, those who get their decision by the March deadline will hear back within the month. Those who apply by the July deadline may have to wait longer for their decision to arrive. The typical turn around time of an applications decision is 3-4 weeks.
6. If I previously applied to the EMPA, will my application roll over?
If you have applied and are encouraged to reapply for the following year, you must submit a new application. However, your materials from the previous year will have been preserved. This includes your transcripts, recommendations, tests, and statement. Nevertheless, the committee would strongly encourage an update on the personal statement for the new application. You have to contact the office of admissions to inform them you want to reapply for the following fall semester.
7. Are there classes that I can visit?
Yes, and we strongly encourage that you visit a class. We want to ensure that this program is a perfect fit for both of us. If you would like to visit a class please e-mail empa@columbia.edu.
8. Is attending an open house mandatory?
We strongly encourage you to attend an open house. You will have a chance to meet the program administrators, current students, and alumni. You will attain a thorough overview of the program.
9. What is the address to the Picker Center?
Picker Center for Executive Education
420 West 118th Street, Room 400
Mail Code 3328
New York, NY 10027
Transfer Credits
1. I took a class at another university. Can I transfer it over?
Each student is assigned an academic adviser. Your academic adviser is the only one that can approve transfer credits. Any course must be at least a B grade and a graduate level course at an accredited university.
2. How many classes can I transfer?
The maximum number of credits you may transfer into the EMPA program is 6 credits pending approval from your academic advisor.
3. I already took Microeconomics. Do I have to take it again?
Microeconomics is considered a core course and no core courses can be replaced. The only way to forego taking this class is by passing the Micro Exemption Exam which the Program Coordinator can schedule with you directly. Based on your exam results, we will determine if you are exempt from Micro I, Micro II, or both. If you do place out of the Microeconomics course, you will still have to take another 6 credits in its place.
Standardized Exams
1. Is the GRE required?
The GRE is being waived for the upcoming admissions period. However, if you have already taken the GRE and would like to submit your scores for consideration, you are welcome to do so.
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2. For whom is the TOEFL mandatory?
If your undergraduate language of instruction was not English, you must take the TOEFL. However, there have been few exceptions. These exceptions are decided on a case by case basis.
3. What is an acceptable TOEFL score?
An acceptable score is 100 and above.
Curriculum
1. How many classes do I have to take?
Because we award you 9 credits for professional experience upon acceptance, you must take the 15 classes in your track, that is 45 credits. In total, you will obtain 54 credits.
2. What concentrations can EMPA students select from?
EMPA students have the option of concentrating in Advanced Finance and Management, International Economic Policy and Management, or Environmental Policy and Sustainability Management.
3. How large are the classes?
Core classes are cohort sizes. Concentration courses run anywhere from 15 to 25 students.
4. How will my schedule differ if I decide to take 2 years to attain my degree or 3?
If you choose the 2-year option, you will be taking 3 classes every term until you graduate. Those who choose the 3-year option will take 2 classes fall and spring terms and 1 class for the summer terms.
5. If I start the program on the three year track and want to switch to the two year track, am I allowed to do so?
Yes, you can switch from the three year to the two year track and vice versa. Please be aware if you decide to make such a switch you must consult with your academic adviser.
6. What are the core courses?
- Public Management
- Quantitative Techniques I and II
- Microeconomics and Policy Analysis I and II
- Financial Management and Government
- Accounting
- Portfolio Presentation Workshop
7. If I begin the program in one concentration, can I switch to another?
Yes, you can change your concentration. However, you must consult with your academic adviser about making such a change.
8. Are we allowed to take courses outside of our concentration?
Yes, you can take up to six credits (two courses) outside of the elective courses for your concentration. You can either take courses in the regular MPA course selection or elective courses offered in the other concentration. Nonetheless, you are required to take ALL core courses. Please note, if you decide to take a course outside of your concentration you must consult with your academic adviser.
9. What is the class schedule?
Please visit http://sipa.columbia.edu//academics/degree_programs/empa/schedules.html to obtain the class schedule.
Faculty
1. What research opportunities are available with faculty members?
Currently there are no research opportunities available with faculty members that are sponsored through the EMPA program.
2. If I am interested in sitting in on a specific class because of the professor, although its not the track I'm interested in, may I?
Yes, you can just ensure that when your coordinating the class visit with the office of recruitment they are aware of this preference.
Career Services
1. Is there career advising specifically targeted towards EMPA students or alums?
There is an Office of Career Services that serves the entire population at SIPA.
Network
1. Do current EMPA students and alums cross paths often?
If so, under what circumstances. If you attend the networking events provided by the EMPA alumni association, the EMPA Forum you will have the opportunity to meet with other alums.
2. Is there an alumni network that makes itself available to current students?
Yes, SIPA has an association and the EMPA program has an association as well.
Financial Aid
1. Will my chances for admission be affected if I apply for financial aid?
Absolutely not. Your financial situation is not a criteria measure.
2. Are there any scholarships available to me?
Currently the only scholarship available is the Picker Fellowship. In order to apply for this award you must be employed by a NYC department and be compensated by NYC. Some agencies that are applicable for this are the NYPD, FDNY, Office of the Mayor, Department of Small Business Services, etc. Some agencies that are not applicable but are a NYC service are the MTA, NY Public Libraries, DOT, EPA, etc.
3. Where can I find additional information about Financial Aid?
Any other financial aid questions related to specific financial aid packages should be directed to the office of admissions financial aid department, 212-854-6216.
If you have a question that is not answered above please email, Office of Recruitment.