Combining data science and evidence-based policy, the two-year programme prepares students to become solution-oriented leaders in the public sector.
Starting in fall 2024, the Hertie School is teaming up with Duke University’s Sanford School of Public Policy to offer the new Master of Data Science for Public Policy (MDS) and Master of Public Policy (MPP) dual degree programme. The MDS/MPP programme combines rigorous data science and public policy, giving students the tools to become solution-oriented leaders in the public sector. After successfully completing the programme, students graduate from both the MDS at the Hertie School and Duke's MPP.
“We are delighted to launch the new MDS/MPP dual degree programme with the Sanford School,” says Hertie School Dean of Graduate Programmes Thurid Hustedt. “The programme combines public policy and data science to prepare our students to work in an increasingly data-driven world. We are proud to expand upon our successful partnership with Duke University after more than a decade of collaboration through our semester exchange programme.”
Ken Rogerson, Director of Graduate Studies of Sanford’s MPP Programme, says, “The Hertie School is a globally respected institution and Sanford is honoured to be partnering with them in this endeavour. By creating a dual degree programme that combines both public policy and data science, we are better preparing our students to be able to do more work with impact after graduation in our increasingly data-driven world.”
Students start in Germany and finish in the United States
In the first year of the programme, participants will begin their studies at the Hertie School, focussing on the MDS. Throughout this year, students will delve into the fundamentals of data science and public policy, exploring topics such as algorithmic decision-making and the transformative potential of artificial intelligence. For the second year, students will head to the Sanford School to focus on the MPP. There, they can choose from seven policy-area concentrations, spanning topics such as environment and energy, national security, health, and more. Upon finishing the degree, students have the opportunity to acquire a work permit in the United States for up to three years, opening exciting career prospects and the ability to make a meaningful impact in the dynamic field of public policy.
The application deadline for fall 2024 admission is 31 March. Visit the Hertie School website for application details.
More information on the programme can be found on our webpage about the dual degree with Duke University. To learn about other partnerships, please consult our dual degree webpage.