Graduate Programs
Informed by the art and science of public problem-solving, the graduate programs in the Howard H. Baker Jr. School of Public Policy and Public Affairs empower students to advance the public good through innovative teaching, high-quality research, and inclusive community engagement. These programs equip students with the analytical and ethical tools to be effective leaders and public servants who are grounded in the values of civility and integrity.
Master of Public Administration
The MPA is a professional degree program designed to prepare students to assume positions in public service through a program of study that integrates the theory and practice of public administration.
Master of Public Policy
The MPP is a degree program designed to prepare students for policy-related careers in government, think tanks, interests groups, not-for-profit organizations, and the private sector.
5-year Accelerated Bachelors/Masters Program
This program allows a qualified undergraduate student to take up to 9 hours of approved graduate courses as a senior and have them count toward bachelor’s electives and the selected graduate program (MPP or MPA).
Dual JD Degree Program
The College of Law and Baker School offer a coordinated dual degree programs with the MPP and MPA. Students may earn their Masters and JD in about four years rather than the five years that otherwise would be required.
Certificate Programs
The Baker School offers 9 certificate programs to prepare leaders, practitioners, researchers, and educators from public administration, public policy, public affairs, and other disciplines to be active in various policymaking activities.
MPA Online
Launched in 2024, the MPA is a professional degree program designed to prepare students for careers in public service through a program of study that integrates the theory and practice of public administration.
Student Spotlight
Lexi Webster, ’22
“The Graduate Program allowed me to dive deeper into my interests of public policy and administration while opening up the door to a plethora of possible career paths. I am thankful for the mentors and friends I met through this program.”
Jackson Scott, ’24
“The program has given me the opportunity to obtain a practitioner relevant graduate education that has given me the skills I need to excel in the workforce. The faculty and staff at the Baker School have created an incredible support system to help me on my path to my career.”
Student Resources
Financial Aid
There are a number of possible resources to support your graduate education. Applicants are encouraged to visit the possibilities at the following links:
On Campus
- Distressed Student Hotline | 865-974-4357
- Student Counseling Center | 865-974-2196 | counselingcenter@utk.edu
- Veteran Student Services | 865-974-5420 | utkva@bakercenter.edu
- One Stop Student Services | 865-974-1111 | onestop@utk.edu
- Division of Diversity and Engagement
- Mattering & Belonging
- Student Union
Childcare
Partnerships & Associations
- Internship and Assistantship Opportunities with UT Institute for Public Service (IPS)
- Local Governance Updates with Municipal Technical Advisory Service (MTAS)
- Cities and Towns Resource to General Assembly with Tennessee Municipal League (TML)
- National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA)