MPP Curriculum

MPP students graduating in June 2026 and later will require a minimum of 61 credits to graduate. Students typically graduate in May of their second year of study.

An up-to-date list of MPP courses can be found within SFU’s academic calendar. While the timing and availability of courses vary year by year, a typical schedule looks like this:

   Year One

In their first year of study, MPP students take seven core courses to build a foundation in policy analysis and issues, research techniques, and qualitative and quantitative research methods. In the summer between year one and year two, students have the option to undertake a paid co-op workterm at a policy agency (often a municipal, provincial, or federal government), to hone and apply their new knowledge and skills, build professional networks, and begin to meet their career aspirations.

Core Courses | Fall/Spring Term

Students will complete the following core courses:

Introduction to Policy Issues and Analysis I

Economic Foundations of Policy Analysis I

Economic Foundations of Policy Analysis II

Political Foundations of Policy Analysis

Public Policy Research Techniques and Methods

Introduction to Policy Analysis and Issues II

Indigenous Policy

CO-OP Practicum | Summer Term

Semester of degree-relevant, paid work experience.

Students may opt to complete an elective course in the summer, alongside their Co-op, to reduce their workload during the second year. International students should seek advice and consult their immigration documents before enrolling in courses in the summer.

Note: The Co-op practicum is optional

MPP Co-op/Internship

  Year Two 

In their second year, students take either four (with Capstone option) or six (with Course-based option) elective courses that match their interests and goals. Students typically graduate in May of their second year of study.

Capstone or Course-based Option

Students must enrol in one of the following options:

Applied Project Option (Capstone project - PLCY 809)

Students who enrol in PLCY 809 must complete an additional four elective courses.

Learn more about the Capstone here

Course-Based Option

Students who enrol in the Course-based option must complete an additional six elective courses.

Elective Courses

The School of Public Policy offers a wide range of elective courses each year. Specific elective course offerings vary from year to year. The below are only some of the electives offered. Students are encouraged to speak with the Graduate Program Chair for advice regarding elective course planning if they need it.

Selected Topics in Public Policy

Selected Topics in Public Policy II

Selected Topics in Public Policy III

Advanced Qualitative Analysis for Public Policy

Quantitative Methods for Public Analysts

Analysis, Formulation, and Evaluation of Social Policy

Health Policy

Environmental Policy