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Bachelor of Science in Oceanic and Atmospheric Science-Public Policy and Master of Public Policy (BS/MPP)

Fast-Track Your Global Career in 5 Years

If you’re driven to use data and empirical analysis to understand real-world problems and create effective solutions, this program gives you the tools to do it. For those who want to change systems, strengthen communities and lead with evidence — the accelerated BS/MPP degree is your path forward.

Students collecting data at the La Jolla tide pools

What You Will Gain

  • Accelerated Timeline: Complete both your BS in Oceanic and Atmospheric Sciences and MPP in just 5 years instead of 6.
  • In-Demand Technical Skills: Master core tools in economics, econometrics, quantitative methods and data evaluation to measure real-world policy outcomes.
  • STEM Designation: Gain technical proficiency in policy analytics, spatial data (GIS) and big data methodologies highly sought after by technology companies, research institutes and public agencies.
  • Competitive Edge: Graduate with a master’s degree from a top-ranked policy school, positioning you for high-impact roles in international organizations, government, non-profits and global enterprise.

Here’s How the 5-Year Program Works

  1. Junior Year: Apply by April 10 to the BS/MPP program during spring quarter.
  2. Senior Year (BS Final Year): Begin taking graduate-level core courses at GPS while completing your BS requirements.
  3. Fifth Year (MPP Year): Matriculate as a full-time GPS graduate student to complete your area of specialization and capstone project.

Who’s Eligible?

This program is open exclusively to current UC San Diego undergraduate students in collaboration with the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. The program is open only to Oceanic and Atmospheric Sciences majors at UC San Diego.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum offers comprehensive training to build a strong base in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, public finance, taxation, regulatory policy and more.

In addition to this core foundation, students may pursue advanced methodological training in areas such as geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing.

Customize your degree by choosing an Area of Specialization to focus your training on the specific policy issues you care about most.

Apply your learning in a final-year capstone project, delivering substantial research that demonstrates your mastery to prospective employers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the core curriculum for the MPP degree portion for the BS/MPP program?

Our rigorous core curriculum ensures you learn the fundamental disciplines of effective policy design, analytical evaluation and strategic management.

  • Policy Analysis and Public Welfare
  • Policy-Making Process
  • Market Failures and Policy Interventions
  • Public Finance and Taxation
  • Policy Analysis and Decision Theory
  • Managing the Macroeconomy
  • Quantitative Analysis of Public Opinion and Electoral Choices
  • Big Data for Policy, Government, and Management
  • Cost Benefit Analysis
  • Evaluating Social Programs

Note: The required core curriculum for the BS/MPP differs from that for the traditional two-year Master of Public Policy.

View the UC San Diego General Catalog for a complete list of GPS courses. All courses, faculty listings, and curricular and degree requirements described are subject to change or deletion without notice. Course availability varies by academic quarter and year.

Please consult with a GPS academic advisor at gps-studentaffairs@ucsd.edu for real-time requirements, a full list of elective courses per areas of specialization and current course schedules.

What are the requirements for the MPP areas of specializations?

Tailor your MPP degree to align with your personal passion and career goals. You will gain targeted expertise by selecting 1 specialization. Each area requires 5 courses: 1 required course, 1 course selected from a designated pair and 3 elective courses.

  • Economic Growth and Development: Analyze macro-level economic trends and build policy solutions that promote sustainable economic opportunity.
  • Environmental Policy: Position yourself at the forefront of sustainability, resource management and environmental equity.
  • Government Regulation, Innovation, and Business: Lead at the intersection of public policy, technological disruption, and private-sector regulation.
  • Inequality and Social Policy: Address fundamental challenges surrounding human rights, labor, social safety nets and educational access.
  • Peace and Security: Explore modern national security, international law and conflict resolution mechanisms.
  • Program Design and Evaluation: Master cutting-edge empirical tools to design, evaluate and optimize public programs.

Does the MPP degree have a language requirement?

No, but students may decide that language proficiency is an important skill for their career goal. Please consult with a GPS academic advisor at gps-studentaffairs@ucsd.edu for real-time requirements.

When is the BS/MPP application deadline?

The application portal opened in early January and the deadline to apply is April 10.

All required application documents must be on file by the posted deadline. If documents are missing, your application may be moved to the next round. View BS/MPP application information.

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