The Duke University Sanford School of Public Policy consistently ranks as one of the nation’s leading public policy schools, offering undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees in public policy, international development policy, public affairs, and national security policy. Sanford offers connections to the world-class, worldwide Sanford and Duke alumni networks. With more than 10,000 alumni in over 100 countries, Duke Sanford paves the way for unparalleled networking opportunities.
We are named for Terry Sanford, who is remembered as a visionary who helped transform North Carolina into a national leader in fighting poverty and Duke into a world-class research institution. He served as governor of North Carolina, U.S. Senator and President of Duke University. Terry lived his life with outrageous ambition.
Sanford offers two dynamic residential master’s programs designed to prepare students for leadership and impact in public service:
1. The Master of International Development Policy (MIDP) is tailored for mid-career professionals from around the world who are committed to advancing global development. MIDP students bring rich professional experience and diverse perspectives, creating a vibrant, international learning community. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to development challenges, with customizable areas of focus such as governance, health policy, and environmental sustainability. MIDP students benefit from close mentorship, hands-on policy engagement, and access to Duke’s global network of development practitioners.
2. The Master of Public Policy (MPP) is a two-year, full-time program for early-career professionals seeking to shape policy through evidence, analysis, and action. MPP students develop strong analytical and leadership skills while exploring concentrations like social policy, environmental policy, and tech policy. The program includes a summer internship, client-based consulting projects, and opportunities to engage with policymakers through Duke in DC and other experiential learning platforms. MPP graduates go on to influential roles in government, nonprofits, think tanks, and the private sector.
Both programs are deeply integrated into Sanford’s mission to improve lives through smart policy and public leadership. Whether students are focused on domestic policy or global development, Sanford provides the tools, community, and inspiration to make a difference.
Sanford also offers two executive hybrid programs designed to support professionals looking to continue their important work while pursuing a degree and growing professionally. The Master of Public Administration and Master of National Security Policy programs combine in-person residencies with state-of-the-art online instruction.
Duke Sanford faculty are ranked among the most research-productive of any public policy school in the world. Our faculty will be mentors and advocates throughout students’ time in the program and beyond. Sanford has a mix of academic scholars and professors of the practice whose practical experience is highly valued. They often collaborate across disciplines within Sanford and the broader Duke community.
Durham, North Carolina, is recognized as one of the best places to live in the U.S. It’s a part of Research Triangle Park, known worldwide for outstanding research universities, innovative technologies and entrepreneurial spirit. The area has a great food scene along with attractions like the Durham Performing Arts Center, Durham Bulls Baseball, state parks and more. Durham is a short flight from D.C., Atlanta and New York, and students enjoy a lower cost of living and high quality of life.
