MPPA Current Students

Our students dive into real-word issues to discuss what governments can or should do. Our core courses connect the concrete to the conceptual, balancinge theory with practice. On this page, you will find program information, application instructions, alumni profiles, and more to help you learn about the program.

Academic Year 2024-25

Incoming Students

Welcome package: This will be distributed by email in early August and contains information that will be of critical reference during your program.

SPPA Orientation and Alumni Reception (First Friday of the Fall Term): Every year, we hold a full day of sessions for incoming students, capped off by a reception in which you will have the opportunity to network with the broader SPPA community and enjoy a keynote talk from a distinguished SPPA alumnus who will welcome you with words of advice as you start into your SPPA journey.

As a MPPA student, you have the opportunity to add a specialization in data science, or complete a concurrent graduate diploma alongside your degree.

Questions? Your first point of contact for any questions relating to your program is the Graduate Administrator, Emma McDonald.

You may also find the answer to your question in our FAQ link below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Co-op

One of the great advantages of Carleton’s MPPA is the Co-op opportunity. Most co-op positions are in the federal public service, but some students have obtained positions with provincial, territorial and municipal governments, the private sector, and the non-governmental/non-profit sector.

Work terms provide career-related experience in policy development, analysis and evaluation and in public administration more generally. They offer an immediate understanding of particular policy or management issues that can support students’ subsequent academic work in concentration and elective courses. Moreover, they generate a range of professional contacts that can lead to ongoing employment.

For more information on the co-op program, please contact the Graduate Co-op Student Advisor for SPPA, Michelle Le.

Case Competitions and Student Awards

Get involved!

SPPA Student Society: The SPPA Student Society is the official society for the students of the School of Public Policy and Administration at Carleton University. Through events, information sessions, student advocacy and representation, the SPPA Society is committed to helping SPPA students have an exciting and quality graduate experience. Contact the SPPA Society by email, website or follow on social media.

SIGNALS Network: This network was formed by Carleton University’s Sustainable Energy (SE) Program from the School of Public Policy and Administration (SPPA) and Sustainable Energy Engineering Programs. Students, alumni, and professors interested in sustainable development are brought together by SIGNALS. Through events, mentorship programs, and social media postings, we aim to connect talented students and graduate professionals with meaningful employment opportunities. Contact SIGNALS Network by email, or visit their website.

Student Journals: SPPA has two peer-reviewed, academic journals [enter wording re: students are encouraged to consider making the most of the opportunity to either submit or become involved during their time in the program] – Carleton Perspective on Public Policy (CPoPP), and Perspectives on Innovation, Science and Environment (ISEMA).

University Resources

ACT: provides career support to Carleton persons with disabilities. Visit the ACT website for more information.

Career Services: Carleton’s career services website is a wealth of information and opportunities for students looking for help with job searches or career advice. Career services offers one-on-one advising sessions, help with job searches, and career and networking events.

Co-op Program: please contact Michelle Le, Graduate Co-op Student Advisor for SPPA.

Graduate Studies: website (for current grad students) and email.

Library Research Support: Aleksandra Blake is the Library Subject Specialist for SPPA. Please reach out to her for any research help.

Professional Development: As a graduate student at Carleton, you have access to a variety of professional development resources. These include skill workshops, one-on-one career and writing consultations, career-oriented events, and even structured programs. Challenge yourself by acquiring new skills that can help you boost your employability. Visit the Graduate Professional Development website to learn more.