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Duke University has launched a new Master of Public Affairs program to help public affairs leaders across sectors deepen their knowledge, enhance their skills and amplify their impact — all without leaving their jobs.
The MPA program is offered by Duke’s Sanford School of Public Policy, recognized as one of the nation’s top public policy institutions, renowned for its cutting-edge research, policy innovation and transformative educational programs.
Duke, among the world’s leading institutions of higher education, recently tied for No. 6 in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best National University rankings.
The Sanford School stands out for its internationally recognized expertise in public policy analysis, environmental management, health policy and social policy. “Building on this tradition of excellence, Sanford is expanding its offerings to working professionals with the launch of the executive hybrid MPA,” said Asher Hildebrand, the program’s inaugural director. “This new MPA follows the model of our successful hybrid Master of National Security Policy program.”
Flexible, hybrid learning experience
What sets the Duke MPA apart is its custom-built hybrid format, which combines small online class meetings with in-person residencies on Duke’s Durham, N.C. campus and in its state-of-the-art Washington, D.C., office.
The brief, intensive in-person engagements provide students with opportunities to form meaningful connections with their cohort, engage deeply with instructors and network with the broader Duke community, Hildebrand said. Students benefit from this flexible format, which lets them continue gaining valuable professional experience and fulfill their other commitments while earning a graduate degree in as little as 15 months.
Comprehensive curriculum for leadership
The hybrid executive MPA combines a core curriculum in policy analysis and data analysis with a concentration in leadership, management and ethics. Whether interpreting data to inform policy, leading teams through organizational change or managing information in a rapidly changing landscape, MPA graduates will be equipped to make evidence-based, strategic decisions.
“Throughout the program, participants will draw on their professional experience, learn from expert instructors and experienced peers, and apply the skills they develop back in their area of practice,” Hildebrand said.The MPA program’s leadership, management and ethics concentration distinguishes it from other programs in the field, offering applied, skills-based training to established and emerging public affairs leaders.
Students will have the opportunity to develop advanced skills in public management and leadership, human resources strategy, communications and advocacy, and other skills critical for today’s public affairs leaders.
Expert faculty, individualized learning
One of the key strengths of Duke’s executive MPA is its world-class faculty, which includes regular Sanford faculty as well as adjunct practitioners drawn from government, consulting and other sectors. These experts bring a mix of academic knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom, ensuring students are prepared to confront challenges in today’s dynamic policy landscape.
With small class sizes, students benefit from close mentorship and tailored guidance, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment. The program caps its cohorts at 25 students, which means core courses have no more than that number and elective courses have even fewer, Hildrebrand said.
Call to established and emerging public affairs leaders
The hybrid executive MPA is ideal for professionals with at least seven years of experience who are ready to renew or elevate their commitment to public service.
Each cohort will bring together students with diverse backgrounds and experiences from the government, nonprofit and private sectors who share a vision for shaping a more just and sustainable future and tackling the critical issues of our time.
Applications for this transformative program are accepted from Aug. 15 through Jan. 5 each year, with each new cohort beginning in early June.
Learn more about Duke University’s hybrid executive Master of Public Affairs and the admissions process now.
