The Master of Public Policy (MPP) program aims to cultivate policy experts capable of conducting in-depth analyses of diverse public policy issues and formulating optimal policy directions with strategic response capabilities. Students gain core knowledge and analytical skills essential for policy analysis and evaluation through required courses, while elective courses help deepen their understanding of specific areas of interest. Required courses include Analysis of Market and Public Policy (AMPP) and Quantitative Methods (QM). Specialization areas include Finance and Macroeconomic Policy (FM), Trade and Industrial Policy (TI), Public Finance and Social Policy (PS), and Regional Development and Environment Policy (RE).

All programs require students to complete at least 39 credits, including a 3-credit research project. KDI School operates on a trimester system, allowing full-time students to graduate in approximately 1.5 years and part-time students in about 2 years. Each program is designed, operated, and evaluated based on the five core competencies set by NASPAA (Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration), as well as program-specific Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs). Curricula are regularly updated by reflecting the feedback from current students, alumni, and partner institutions to maintain a demand-oriented structure. Students interested inpursuing doctoral study may be allowed to take some Ph.D.-level courses under the guidance of their advisor.

Program Specific Concentrations

Finance and Macroeconomic Policy

This study area equips students with the theoretical foundation and practical tools to address key issues in finance and macroeconomic policy. Ideal for professionals in finance ministries, central banks, regulatory bodies, or the private sector, the program covers topics such as global financial imbalances and international regulatory systems. With this training, students gain a well-rounded perspective to engage in high-level policy discussions and navigate complex financial systems.

Trade and Industrial Policy

Designed for those working in or aspiring to roles in trade ministries, international organizations, or global business, this concentration offers practical and theoretical insights into trade and industrial policy. Students explore FTAs, FDI, trade negotiations, and dispute settlement, along with legal and institutional frameworks governing international trade. The program prepares students to support domestic industries and develop trade strategies in a globalized economy.

Public Finance and Social Policy

This concentration focuses on designing public policies that balance economic efficiency and social equity. Through topics such as taxation, public spending, and regulation, students learn to address challenges like poverty, inequality, and externalities. Suited for professionals in fiscal policy, education, healthcare, labor, or social insurance, the program builds a strong foundation for developing inclusive and impactful public policies.

Regional Development and Environment Policy

Sustainable development and green growth are central to this track, which explores the intersection of economic growth, environmental sustainability, and regional planning. Students learn to design environmentally responsible development projects, conduct impact assessments, and manage stakeholder engagement. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in government, international organizations, NGOs, and the private sector working on regional or environmental policy.

Graduation Requirements

※ Total : Minimum 39 credits / KOICA, GKS, G20 and K-water, follow their own graduation requirements.

Graduation Date

※ If you take any courses during the semester, you will graduate on January 31st (not December)

Ceremony

Completion Ceremony

• Requirements: Enrolled students in a Masters degree, meet minimum credits requirements inclusive of the courses being taken currently.
• Date: August, December (Refer to the academic calendar of each year)
• Certificate of Coursework Completion will be awarded at the Completion Ceremony.

  * Certificate of Coursework Completion is different from Certificate of Completion (Certificate of Completion is issued to students who have completed the minimum required semesters but have not yet graduated)

• Students will be invited to the completion ceremony only once

Commencement

• Requirements: Enrolled and Completed students in Ph.D. and Masters degree having met all graduation requirements
• Date: December (Refer to the academic calendar of each year)
• Diploma will be awarded only once at the Commencement