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Master of Public Policy, International Program (MPP/IP)
Program insights
Date posted
October 9, 2025
Deadline
October 9, 2026
Study location
Tokyo
Tuitions
3,300$ - 3,800$/year
Level
Secondary or Pre-University
Qualification
Bachelor's Degree
Duration
1-2
Gender
All
Description
The MPP/IP at the University of Tokyo is one of Asia’s most globally recognized English-taught master’s programs in public policy. Designed for emerging leaders, it equips students with the academic rigor, practical insights, and international exposure required for policymaking careers in government, business, international organizations, and the nonprofit sector.
GraSPP’s philosophy is rooted in multidisciplinary education—combining law, politics, and economics—while emphasizing real-world applications through case studies and practitioner-led courses. The program’s student body represents over 70 nationalities, and nearly half of all students are international, creating a truly global learning community.
Program Structure
The MPP/IP is a two-year program requiring 46 credits, including:
- Core courses in law, political science, and economics
- Case studies and quantitative analysis modules
- Elective courses across public management, international relations, finance, and development
Students select one of two policy streams:
- Economic Policy, Finance and Development (EPFD) – for careers in economic policy, finance, or international development.
- Public Management and International Relations (PMIR) – for students pursuing leadership in public administration, diplomacy, or global governance.
Curriculum Highlights
The curriculum integrates foundational and advanced courses such as:
- Microeconomics and Macroeconomics for Public Policy
- Econometrics and Statistical Methods
- Politics and Public Policy
- International Security, Global Governance, and Comparative Political Studies
- Law and Public Policy, International Environmental Law, and Japanese Law
Students may also cross-register in courses offered by the Graduate Schools of Economics and Law at UTokyo.
International Exposure
GraSPP maintains exchange and double degree partnerships with 14 world-leading universities, including:
- Columbia University (SIPA)
- London School of Economics (LSE)
- Sciences Po (France)
- National University of Singapore (Lee Kuan Yew School)
- King’s College London
- Hertie School (Germany)
- Australian National University (Crawford School)
Students can earn dual master’s degrees or participate in short-term exchanges through these programs.
GraSPP is also a member of the Global Public Policy Network (GPPN) and CAMPUS Asia Plus, fostering collaboration among top public policy schools in Japan, China, and Korea.
Faculty Excellence
Courses are delivered by world-class academics and policy practitioners, including:
- Prof. Kazuto Suzuki (Science and Technology Policy; former UN Sanctions Panel expert)
- Prof. Chiyuki Aoi (War and Strategic Studies; Peace and Security)
- Prof. Naomi Aoki (Public Administration and Civil Service Reforms)
- Prof. Hikaru Ogawa (Public Economics)
- Prof. Naoko Munakata (Innovation and Industrial Policy; former Executive Secretary to Prime Minister Abe)
Their research and government experience bridge theory and practice, preparing students for the demands of global policymaking.
Scholarships and Support
GraSPP provides financial support through prestigious scholarships such as:
- ADB-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP)
- IMF, JICA, and World Bank scholarships
- Additional merit- and need-based awards
The International Student Desk assists with:
- Visa procedures, accommodation, and daily life support
- Private scholarship applications
- Japanese language learning (via UTokyo’s Language Center)
Accommodation options include university dormitories, shared housing, and private apartments.
Student Life and Opportunities
GraSPP students gain practical experience through:
- Internships in government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations
- Policy simulation competitions (e.g., GPPN Conference, APEC Voices of the Future)
- Research assistantships and field-based seminars
Graduates join leading institutions such as the United Nations, World Bank, IMF, JP Morgan, Deloitte, and national ministries and central banks.
Alumni Impact
With over 1,900 alumni across 71 countries, GraSPP graduates serve as policymakers, researchers, and executives shaping public policy worldwide. Alumni testimonies reflect the program’s transformative academic and cultural experience—blending Japanese excellence with global perspectives.
Location
GraSPP is located at Hongo Campus, in central Tokyo, near the Imperial Palace and major business districts (Kasumigaseki, Ginza, Shinjuku). The campus combines tradition and innovation, providing access to Japan’s political and administrative hub.
Contact Information
Graduate School of Public Policy (GraSPP)
The University of Tokyo
7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
Tel: +81-3-5841-1349
Email: mppipdesk.j@gs.mail.u-tokyo.ac.jp
Website: https://www.pp.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/mppip/
Skills
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Overview
The University of Tokyo was established in 1877 as the first national university in Japan. As a leading research university, UTokyo offers courses in essentially all academic disciplines at both undergraduate and graduate levels and conducts research across the full spectrum of academic activity. The University aims to provide its students with a rich and varied academic environment that ensures opportunities for both intellectual development and the acquisition of professional knowledge and skills. To learn more about the University of Tokyo, please visit the pages below.
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School size
Founded in
1877
Location
Tokyo
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