The McCourt School will pause the EMPL program after the 2021-2022 academic year. There are many factors that contributed to this decision– including our planned move to Georgetown’s Capitol Campus in 2023– after which the McCourt School will be better positioned to invest in the growth of this program. We remain committed to supporting our community of EMPL alumni next year and beyond. Please contact our admissions office if you have questions, or to discuss other similar educational opportunities at McCourt.

Executive Education: The Best Option for Working Professionals

Leadership Experience Anchor

Leadership Experience

The Executive Master in Policy Leadership (EMPL) equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively lead in today’s complex, dynamic policy environment.

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Developed for Working Professionals Anchor

Developed for Working Professionals

For 16 months, students participate in ten hybrid courses each composed of a five-day, in-person experience integrated with interactive online learning over a two week period.

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A High-Performing, Lifelong Network Anchor

A High-Performing, Lifelong Network

Students participate in a diverse, team-based cohort, guided by faculty experts. Together, they build a lifelong network of learners.

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At the Very Center of the Policy World Anchor

At the Very Center of the Policy World

McCourt’s location in Washington, D.C., places EMPL at the center of the policy world, giving students access to leading practitioners and exposure to government agencies, international bodies, and nongovernmental organizations.

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In-Person Course Dates Anchor

In-Person Course Dates

Fall 2021

  • Course 1 MPPL 710 Public Policy Process for Executives: August 2-6
  • Course 2 MPPL 750 Communication for Executives: September 20-24
  • Course 3 MPPL 720 Economic Analysis for Executives: November 8-12

Spring 2022

  • Course 4 MPPL 745 Negotiation & Conflict Management: January 10-14
  • Course 5: MPPL Public Budgeting & Financial Management February 28 – March 4
  • Course 6: MPPL 755 The Digital Transformation and the Social Contract April 18-22

Summer 2022

  • Course 7 MPPL 740 Executive Decision Making: June 13-17
  • Course 8: MPPL 715 Public Leadership July 25-29

Fall 2022

  • Course 9: MPPL 735 Ethical Issues in the 21st Century September 26-30
  • Course 10: MPPL 780 Policy on the Hill/ Policy Project December 5-9
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FAQs Anchor

FAQs

How relevant is GPA for admission to the EMPL?

  • Career trajectory and success are taken into greater consideration than GPA.

Is an academic reference necessary?

  • No, it is best to have references from current or recent colleagues, and superiors/supervisors who can speak to your career trajectory and success, especially if you have been out of school for several years.

How does a typical EMPL student finance their tuition?

  • Personal savings, loans, support from employer, and the GI Bill.

How much do textbooks and materials cost?

  • On average $20-30 per course.

What time do the 5-day in-person courses meet?

  • Monday – Friday, 9AM-4:45PM; on Fridays courses end by 3:45PM. Evenings should be used to review materials for the next day.

Do most EMPL students take annual leave for the in-person courses?

  • Most students use a combination of vacation days and professional development leave.

What is the workload for the weeks preceding and following the in-person courses?

  • Course readings are sent via Georgetown’s online learning system, Canvas, 5-6 weeks in advance. All readings should be completed before the course begins. There is typically 3-5 hours of online work in the Canvas discussion board in each of the 2 weeks preceding the course. Most courses have an 8-10 page paper due 2-3 weeks after the course ends.

What are the average years of work experience for an EMPL student?

  • 15-20 years.
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