MPA in Economic Policy Management

MPA in Economic Policy Management Curriculum

The Master of Public Administration in Economic Policy Management (MPA-EPM), formerly known as the Program in Economic Policy Management (PEPM), is designed to enhance students' technical competence in economic management and policymaking. The program trains students in the application of these skills and educates them about current thinking on the global economic environment, as well as its history and institutions.

Curriculum and Degree Requirements:
The MPA-EPM curriculum focuses on building technical expertise in economic management. Students must complete a minimum of 54 credits of graduate-level coursework with a GPA of 3.0 or higher to earn the Master of Public Administration degree. The program offers three specialized focus areas:

  • Economic Policy Management (EPM)

  • Climate, Energy, & Environment (CE&E)

  • Central Banking and Financial Markets (CBFM)

Transfer Credits:
MPA-EPM students who have previously completed a graduate degree in economics or a related discipline may transfer up to twelve credits from their previous graduate degree toward the MPA in Economic Policy Management degree. To apply for a transfer, students must contact the MPA-EPM Office before April 1st. The criteria for credit transfer include:

  • The course(s) must be part of a completed graduate degree.

  • The course(s) must relate to the MPA-EPM course(s) for which a transfer is requested.

  • The student’s performance in the course(s) must meet the program’s standards.

Skill Development and Professional Preparation:
The MPA-EPM program is designed to equip students with the skills needed to address complex economic policy issues. Through rigorous coursework and practical application, students learn to analyze economic problems, design effective policies, and manage economic programs. The program prepares graduates for careers in government, international organizations, financial institutions, and the private sector, where they can contribute to shaping economic policy and managing economic programs.

Learn more about the MPA-EPM Core and Focus Areas

The core of the MPA-EPM program at Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) consists of two three-semester course sequences in Macroeconomic Policy Management and Econometrics. These core courses are supplemented by classes in management skills and political economy. Students also have the opportunity to choose additional elective courses offered at SIPA and other graduate schools at Columbia. Each course is designed around real-world examples and case studies to enhance practical understanding and application.

Economic Policy Management Focus Area (EPM): This focus area builds students' technical competence with the tools of economic management and policymaking, as well as their application. It educates students about current thinking on the global economic environment, its history, and institutions.

Student Background: Students who select this focus area typically come from national and international development agencies, international financial institutions, and banks. It is also popular among professionals with consulting and legal backgrounds.

Climate, Energy, & Environment Focus Area (CE&E): This focus area teaches the energy industry fundamentals within the context of environmental sustainability. It covers international energy systems and business organizations involved in the production, transportation, and marketing of energy products.

Student Background: Students in this focus area are often accomplished professionals from energy ministries, national oil companies, and energy-producing firms. They also include professionals from around the world who are involved in various aspects of the global energy markets and environmental sustainability.

Central Banking and Financial Markets Focus Area (CBFM): This focus area builds an in-depth understanding of corporate finance, capital markets, and central banking. It covers both emerging and advanced economies, examining the process of building sound capital markets in emerging economies.

Student Background: Students in this focus area are typically mid-career professionals working at central banks, finance ministries, and various financial institutions.

For additional information on the MPA in Economic Policy Management, including information for prospective students and admissions, please refer back to the main site or email mpa-epm@sipa.columbia.edu.