USC SPPD

[eastcoastdude123]

Two questions: One is pretty dumb, and I apologize. The other is a pretty common question.

1.)Is SPPD better known for its MPA or its MPP? I've heard that employment prospects for both are pretty much the same. For example, one of my bosses at my internship had an MPA, and someone else in another section had an MPP, and they both did the same job.

2.) I have Googled this so many times, but I just couldn't find anything, so here it goes: Does anyone have the average admitted GPA/GRE for USC's MPA or MPP?

Thanks in advance!

[policy_applicant]

hi eastcoastdude123,

I applied and was accepted to USC's MPP program last year. If you do a search, you can find a thread that might provide a bit more information (but probably not much). To address your questions:

1) I believe SPPD is better known for it's MPA. It's a huge program and, along with the urban planning program, makes up the vast majority of the school (SPPD, that is). The MPP, by comparison, is quite small, numbering around 40 students per year. The career department for the two is the same (hence, potentially, the similarity in placement). They main difference is curriculum--the MPP requiring more quant and analysis classes.

2) I don't think USC releases those numbers, so your search may be in vain. Here's a link to the school's page on Peterson's. I believe the acceptance rate (at least for the MPP program) is pretty high, so I wouldn't be too worried. SPPD is also very generous with the money, which is a huge plus.

Good luck with the school search and applications! I hope the board is beneficial.

[mothernorth]

The Peterson stats on USC's SPPD acceptance "seem" incorrect from my discussions with the staff at SPPD, the acceptance rate is far lower. Also for UCLA, they say "337 applicants, 40% accepted, 40 enrolled", which I know is incorrect as an excess of 100 people enroll in the program every year (according to UCLA Public Affairs staff), so I would just go ahead and talk to the staff directly for those figures if they are important to you.

If USC SPPD is where you want to be, which is a great school (Ranked 7th by US News, but then again, take what you want from US News rankings), take time to build the best application possible, study for your GRE, and work hard on your personal statement. I would personally look at the MPA and MPP course requirements and see what fits your interest more, I think doing one or the other will pretty much give you access to similar jobs. Good luck.

[eastcoastdude123]

Just an update... I talked to a person from the SPPD admissions office today. She told me that the average GPA for the MPP was roughly 3.1. The middle 50% of the admitted GPAs for the MPA program was from 3.1 to 3.57. I apologize for forgetting the average GRE scores. Have a good day!

[parchee683]

I'm looking for some advice. I'm currently a police officer and have been for 8 years. I am retired military with 11 years active duty and 9 years in the reserves (all enlisted). I am currently finishing my degree in Organizational Management with an overall GPA of 3.8. I have not taken the GRE but plan on it in the near future. Since I work full time, I don't have time for internships that could increase my chances in getting into the SPPD program. Do you think that I have a good chance of getting in providing I do well on the GRE? Is there anything you suggest that I could do to increase my chances for geting in? Also, what is the total cost of the program for the MPA and are the scholarships financial need only are could I qualify even though I work full time and make good money?

[violet van]

1. Please note you can also get a MPA with public policy certificate. From the FAQ of SPPD website,

"The MPA program offers a solid professional education designed to prepare students for all the challenges and opportunities of a career in public management. The MPP program helps build the skills and knowledge base required of a professional policy analyst. While the MPA tends to focus more on management-based courses and the MPP has a heavier emphasis on analytical coursework, both degrees through the available electives provide students the opportunity to take further coursework in management or analysis. In addition, most MPA courses are scheduled in the evening or in an intensive format, making it easier for working professionals to pursue the degree."

2.The average GPA was a 3.41 and the average GRE was 1221 for 2009.

Hope it helps.

Edited August 11, 2010 by violet van

[violet van]

I'm looking for some advice. I'm currently a police officer and have been for 8 years. I am retired military with 11 years active duty and 9 years in the reserves (all enlisted). I am currently finishing my degree in Organizational Management with an overall GPA of 3.8. I have not taken the GRE but plan on it in the near future. Since I work full time, I don't have time for internships that could increase my chances in getting into the SPPD program. Do you think that I have a good chance of getting in providing I do well on the GRE? Is there anything you suggest that I could do to increase my chances for geting in? Also, what is the total cost of the program for the MPA and are the scholarships financial need only are could I qualify even though I work full time and make good money?

I think you have a good chance of getting in based on your years of public service. And I think if you have 2 years of related experience, it can fulfill the internship requirement and you don't have to do internship. I also heard from the staff that they are starting an online program in 2011 (not confirmed). For the scholarship, it is merit-based but make sure you submit your application before deadline (which I missed).

USC's tuition is based on a per unit rate of $1,360. So the whole program costs around $54400 (40 units).

Make sure you have a decent SoP and good recommendations. Hope it helps!=)

Edited August 11, 2010 by violet van