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    University of Chicago

    MA in Public Policy and International Relations

    Last verified against the official program page on .

    Chicago, USMAIn-person2 years
    STEM-OPT
    $133,596.00
    Tuition
    over 24mo
    180
    Credits
    $90.00
    App fee

    MA in Public Policy and International Relations at University of Chicago is a 180-credit, 2-year, in-person MA program based in Chicago, US. Tuition is $133,596 and the program is STEM-OPT eligible for international students.

    About the program

    Two-year joint program combining public policy analytical tools with interdisciplinary study of political, security, economic, social, and cultural forces in international relations. Results in two Master of Arts degrees, one from Harris School of Public Policy and one from Committee on International Relations, including core courses, electives, internship or thesis.

    Focus: both
    US News #9 Public Affairs (Harris School)

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    Standardized tests

    GRE
    optional
    Min Not Accepted
    TOEFL
    required
    Min Harris School of Public Policy: 5.0 overall (post-Jan 21 2026); 95 total (pre); Social Sciences Division (incl International Relations): 5.0 on each section (post); 25 on each section (pre)
    IELTS
    required
    Min Harris: 7.0 overall, no less than 7.0 on each section; SSD: 7.0 on each section

    After the program

    Post-study work rights

    12 months OPT (US), STEM-eligible for 24-month extension

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    Self-reported profiles of past applicants to this program.

    Prerequisites

    Specific coursework this program expects you to have completed: calculus, linear algebra, programming, statistics, and subject-specific prerequisites where applicable.

    Recommendations

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    Essays

    Number of essays required (statement of purpose, personal statement, diversity statement), prompts where the program publishes them, and whether supplemental essays are optional or mandatory.

    Contact

    Direct email and phone for the admissions office handling this program, plus a link to the program-specific inquiry page where available.

    Frequently asked questions

    How much does MA in Public Policy and International Relations at University of Chicago cost?
    The total estimated tuition for MA in Public Policy and International Relations at University of Chicago is $133,596 across 180 required credits.
    Is MA in Public Policy and International Relations at University of Chicago online or in-person?
    MA in Public Policy and International Relations at University of Chicago is offered in-person.
    How long does MA in Public Policy and International Relations at University of Chicago take to complete?
    MA in Public Policy and International Relations at University of Chicago is structured around 2 years and 180 credits.
    Is MA in Public Policy and International Relations at University of Chicago STEM-OPT eligible?
    Yes - MA in Public Policy and International Relations at University of Chicago is STEM-OPT designated, allowing international graduates to extend their post-completion OPT for up to 36 months total.
    What work-permit options follow MA in Public Policy and International Relations at University of Chicago?
    Post-completion work rights for MA in Public Policy and International Relations at University of Chicago: 12 months OPT (US), STEM-eligible for 24-month extension