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LSE/SciencesPo Double Degree: Master of Public Administration


Closed for 2024 entry. Application deadline 11 February 2024.

The double MPP-MPA degree offers students a multi-disciplinary and applied public policy education that harnesses the best of two world-leading social science institutions.

The double Master’s degree in Public Policy and Public Administration between Sciences Po’s School of Public Affairs and the LSE School of Public Policy aims to equip students with a rounded, multi-disciplinary and applied public policy education that harnesses the best of two world-leading social science institutions

In particular, the first year of the programme at Sciences Po provides students with core skills in economics and politics as well as courses that enable students to complete the requirements of one of eleven policy streams in the area that they choose to specialize in (in English or in French).  Students explore the intersection between public policy and cutting-edge technologies, with an emphasis on a hands-on, concrete approach. 

During the second year at LSE, the programme complements this learning with the institutional strengths of the LSE School of Public Policy. Students have the opportunity to select a second area of specialism – either complementary or distinct from – that chosen in the first year.

The programme further supplements students’ professional experience through a second year capstone project in which students will work in teams to solve a real-world policy problem.

Key features:  

  • Study at two prestigious institutions in two cities – Year one at the School of Public Affairs at Sciences Po in Paris and Year two at the School of Public Policy at the London School of Economics and Political Science
  • Choice of specialisms - a broad curriculum allows you to identify your key interests and strengths and choose a specialisation from a range of electives in both your first and second year of study.  
  • The ‘Public Policy Incubator’ (Year 1) – put your skills into practice and work in groups alongside researchers, representatives from public, private and civil society organisations to propose innovative, practicable solutions to an identified policy challenge. 
  • MPA Capstone (Year 2) - an opportunity to work on a real-world policy challenge as part of a six-month consultancy style project with an external client. 
  • A global outlook – be a part of the international communities at LSE and Sciences Po as well a network of prestigious policy schools around the world as part of the Global Public Policy Network (GPPN). 

Key Facts

Applications open:

Apply via Sciences Po application process

Start date:

September 2024

Application deadline:

11 February 2024

Duration

21 months full-time only

Expected intake:

15

Minimum entry requirement

2:1 degree or equivalent in any discipline.

There is no formal requirement for previous professional work experience, but students starting the LSE MPA would normally have one year of professional experience and many would have two or more years of experience. 

GRE/GMAT Requirement: None

Location

Year one: Paris, France

Year Two: London, UK

The application process

When to apply

Application deadline: 11 February 2024

To be considered for the programme applicants will need to submit an application via Sciences Po application process. 

How to apply

To be considered for the programme applicants will need to submit an application via Sciences Po application process. 

You cannot apply for this programme via the LSE MPA programme application process.   

Visit Sciences Po website for more information and to apply

How your application will be assessed 

All applications are considered by an admissions panel composed of representatives from both LSE and Sciences Po. 

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified prospective students and want to recruit students with the very best academic merit, potential and motivation, irrespective of their background.

We carefully consider each application on an individual basis, taking into account all the information presented on your application form.

Curriculum overview

Find out more about detailed curriculum information via Sciences Po webpages

Sciences Po - Year One

The first year of the programme at Sciences Po provides students with core skills in economics and politics as well as courses that enable students to complete the requirements of one of eleven policy streams in the area that they choose to specialize in (in English or in French).  Students explore the intersection between public policy and cutting-edge technologies, with an emphasis on a hands-on, concrete approach. 

London School of Economics and Political Science - Year Two

The key features of the second year are the MPA Capstone and the option to choose a specialisation to be a part of your degree title.

You will also choose a range of option courses (electives) from the School of Public Policy (or elsewhere in LSE, subject to permission and availability).

The MPA Capstone 

The MPA Capstone is a compulsory one unit course. You will carry out analysis and research, as part of a team, in order to address a practical policy issue relevant to a real-life client organisation. It allows you to extend your capabilities by applying what you have learned in the MPA core courses in a professional context. 

Option courses (electives)

Your remaining second year course units will be made up of option courses (electives) from a wide range available in the School of Public Policy or (with permission and subject to availability) from elsewhere in LSE.

For the most up-to-date list of optional courses please visit the relevant LSE School Calendar page  

You must note, however, that while care has been taken to ensure that this information is up to date and correct, a change of circumstances since publication may cause the School to change, suspend or withdraw a course or programme of study, or change the fees that apply to it. The School will always notify the affected parties as early as practicably possible and propose any viable and relevant alternative options. Note that the School will neither be liable for information that after publication becomes inaccurate or irrelevant, nor for changing, suspending or withdrawing a course or programme of study due to events outside of its control, which includes but is not limited to a lack of demand for a course or programme of study, industrial action, fire, flood or other environmental or physical damage to premises.
You must also note that places are limited on some courses and/or subject to specific entry requirements. The School cannot therefore guarantee you a place. Please note that changes to programmes and courses can sometimes occur after you have accepted your offer of a place. These changes are normally made in light of developments in the discipline or path-breaking research, or on the basis of student feedback. Changes can take the form of altered course content, teaching formats or assessment modes. Any such changes are intended to enhance the student learning experience. You should visit the School’s Calendar, or contact the relevant academic department, for information on the availability and/or content of courses and programmes of study. Certain substantive changes will be listed on the updated graduate course and programme information page.

 

Class profile

Our LSE SPP degree programmes attract a highly diverse range of students from all over the globe. In 2022 we welcomed an intake of 350 students representing 50+ nationalities.

The LSE SPP offers three MPA double degree programmes with partner schools, Columbia SIPA, Toronto University and Sciences Po. Our MPA double degrees are a special cohort of approx 15 students per partner school programme. They benefit from belonging to a smaller cohort whilst also learning alongside our larger MPA cohort of approx 75-100 students.  

There is no formal work experience requirement, however our students have a wide range of prior experience. Our MPA students have an average of 3.5 years' working experience.

We welcome students from wide-ranging areas of expertise including economics, law, social sciences, political science, business and international relations.   

Their combined experience encourages a reflective approach to study that draws on skills and experience gained prior to the programme. This diversity is a major strength, providing many different national, economic and societal perspectives to problems and solutions of public policy.

Student Life

School of Public Policy student groups, networks and development opportunities:

Association of Public Policy Students (APPS)

The Association of Public Policy Students (APPS) is an elected body of SPP students that serve as a resource for the student community. Throughout the academic year, the APPS’s numerous committees and initiatives provide opportunities for students to engage with other classmates in professional and social activities.

Turner MBA Investment Impact Network and Training (MIINT)

The Turner MBA Investment Impact Network and Training (MIINT) Competition gives students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in impact investing by sourcing and conducting due diligence on real-world, early-stage impact investment opportunities. The MIINT is supported by LSE's Marshall Institute. Find out more about the experience from our 2022 participants.  

Global Public Policy Network (GPPN)

The Global Public Policy Network (GPPN) is a partnership between 7 prestigious universities in public policy. GPPN is a platform for institutional partnership, research collaboration, and student exchange. Members of the GPPN have organised an annual international conference for the students and deans from member schools to meet and discuss pressing issues of global public policy. GPPN members have also established exchange and dual degrees programs, allowing students to benefit from this international network of the most prestigious public affairs schools in the world.

Womxn’s Network

The School of Public Policy’s (SPP) Womxn’s Network is a student-run organisation focused on the advancement and empowerment of students within the SPP and broader LSE community who are marginalised by the intersectionalities of gender and/or sexuality. The Network aims to further encourage the inclusion of marginalised voices within policymaking through various events and forums designed to promote learning and open discussion.

Public Sphere Journal (PSJ)

The Public Sphere Journal (PSJ) is a journal of international policy studies produced by SPP students which features evidence-based research in economic policy, public management, international affairs, development studies and social policy. The PSJ offers students an opportunity to combine their unique professional and personal experiences to create a journal of international policy studies, from the initial call for papers through to the print and launch.  

Policy in Practice (PiP) seminars

We run regular seminars through the year to connect you with policy practitioners in a range of fields, either to learn more about the work of particular organisations and sectors or to develop new skills. These seminars provide students with an opportunity to connect classroom learning to real world scenarios. 

SPP Professional Skills Accelerator

The SPP also offers an extensive and tailored programme of Professional Skills for Public Policy which is especially designed to complement the skills and insights that you gain as part of your programme curriculum and equip you with the necessary skills for the next step in your career.  

You will benefit from a series of training workshops with experienced practitioners and experts in key areas of professional development such as leadership, negotiation and persuasive communication.

LSE student societies and activities

Your time at LSE is not just about studying, there are plenty of ways to get involved in extracurricular activities. From joining one of over 200 societies, or starting your own society, to volunteering for a local charity, or attending a public lecture by a world-leading figure, there is a lot to choose from.

Life in London 

As a student at LSE you’ll be based at our central London campus. Find out what our campus and London have to offer you on academic, social and career perspective. 

LSE is based on one campus in the centre of London. Despite the busy feel of the surrounding area, many of the streets around campus are pedestrianised, meaning the campus feels like a real community. 

London is an exciting, vibrant and colourful city. It's also an academic city, with more than 400,000 university students. Whatever your interests or appetite you will find something to suit your palate and pocket in this truly international capital. Make the most of career opportunities and social activities, theatre, museums, music and more. 

Want to find out more? Read why we think London is a fantastic student city, find out about key sights, places and experiences for new Londoners. Don't fear, London doesn't have to be super expensive: hear about London on a budget

Career Support

Support for your career

The double degree provides students with the opportunity to develop professional skills and experience to give them a head start over other graduates in seeking post-study employment in a relevant sector. The double degree is an excellent career decision with many global employers attracted to both the intellectual rigour and the practical applications of the course. The degree equips professionals with the skills to make an immediate impact for employers in the public sector, private companies, non-governmental and inter-governmental organisations around the world.

Students will benefit from the careers support, resources and networks of both prestigious institutions. 

London School of Economics and Political Science

LSE Careers Consultants make sure that you get the best possible support in developing your career plans during your time studying. Whether you know already the career you are aiming for, or simply the general direction you want they can help guide and develop your ideas to present your skills and experience to employers in the best possible way.

In particular students at LSE have access to:

  • careers discussions with the School of Public Policy's Careers Consultant
  • a weekly Careers newsletter, compiled by a student employee, with relevant short-term and long-term opportunities
  • Discussions to employers (often MPA alumni) including through visits to offices to discuss career options and learn about different employment sectors
  • specialist careers seminars run by LSE Careers, including sessions on CVs and cover letters, career management, networking, interviews and advice specific to particular employment sectors
  • access to LSE Careerhub, with thousands of short-term and long-term opportunities including internships

Many leading organisations give careers presentations at the School during the year. LSE Careers has a wide range of resources available to assist students in their job search. Find out more about the support available.

SPP Professional Skills Accelerator

The SPP also offers an extensive and tailored programme of Professional Skills for Public Policy which is especially designed to complement the skills and insights that you gain as part of your programme curriculum and equip you with the necessary skills for the next step in your career.  

You will benefit from a series of training workshops with experienced practitioners and experts in key areas of professional development such as leadership, negotiation and persuasive communication.

Events and Contact Us

Upcoming SPP Events

Information for events in 2024 will be available soon.

Past Events

SPP Programmes Overview - 13 November 2023
View presentation slides

Information Events

SPP Programme Information Sessions

Throughout the year we will be hosting online SPP programme information sessions for prospective students. These sessions provide an opportunity for prospective students to interact with our faculty and students to find out more about a specific SPP programme.

Details of upcoming sessions can be found on our website and we also encourage you to register your interest to hear more about our upcoming sessions.

LSE information events and videos

LSE also have a number of webinars, videos, student blogs and student video diaries which will help you gain an insight into what it's like to study more broadly at LSE. Experience LSE from home

LSE representatives also travel around the world to meet with prospective students at information fairs and events Find details on LSE's upcoming visits

Visit LSE

Come on a guided campus tour, attend an undergraduate open day, drop into our office or go on a self-guided tour. Find out about opportunities to visit LSE

Contact us

Admissions: Contact Sciences Po

Connect with us

You can find out more about SPP activities, faculty news, upcoming events and student life by connecting with us on social media:

LSE SPP Linkedin LSE School of Public Policy

LSE SPP Instagram @lsepublicpolicy

LSE SPP X/Twitter @lsepublicpolicy