Policies and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Admissions and Application

Who Should Apply

• What does SIPA look for in an applicant?

• What are the special characteristics of successful MPA-DP candidates?

• Do I need to have a certain major?
• Are applicants required to have worked professionally for a minimum period of time?
• Do you accept applicants directly from undergraduate schools?

Preparing to Apply

• When is the application deadline?
• Can I apply online?
• Is the review process for applicants to the MPA-DP program the same as for other SIPA programs?
• Can I visit the campus and meet with an MPA-DP program representative?
• Is a personal interview required or recommended?

Admission

• Can I defer my offer of admission?
• What is covered in the MPA-DP “Getting Started” program?
• Why does the MPA-DP program have an additional $1000 fee?

Statistics

• How many students are accepted each year?
• What is the average age of an MPA-DP student?
• What percentage of MPA-DP students are international?

Summer Field Placement

• How does the MPA-DP summer field placement differ from the regular internship required of other MPA students at SIPA?
• How long is the summer field placement?
• Where are students placed? Can I choose the location of my summer field placement?
• Is the summer field placement program funded?
• What are the living conditions of the summer field placement? Will I be placed with other students?

Program Policies

Core Requirements

• Can I choose a concentration and specialization?
• Do I have to prove proficiency in a foreign language?
• Can I take more advanced Economics and Statistics courses in lieu of the required introductory courses?

Grading

• Can I take courses for a grade of Pass/Fail?
• Can I audit courses?
• Can I receive credit for an independent research project?

Electives

• Can I take electives at other schools within the Columbia University system?
• How many elective courses am I required to take?

Difference between MIA/MPA and MPA in Development Practice