The Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree is the recognized professional degree in the field of public policy analysis. The MPP degree provides students with education and training that prepares them for opportunities in professional positions in a wide variety of organizations, including federal, state, and local governments, private business, research institutes, think tanks, nonprofit organizations, community advocacy groups, foundations, and professional and trade associations. Public policy education at GW provides students with the ability to think clearly and analytically about social and economic problems and public policy. Students not only learn the basic analytical and methodological tools to engage in policy analysis, they also develop an understanding of the political processes through which policy is made and the social, economic and historical context in which problems arise and are addressed. This field is designed for students interested in pursuing careers in state and local government administration. The field gives primary consideration to understanding the theoretical and practical implications of the political economy of state and local governments, to distinguishing among alternative structure and forms of local government, recognizing advantages and disadvantages, and to gaining an understanding of the problems that local governments face (particularly in urban areas), the policy options and the practical management considerations for resolving these problems. With the permission of the field advisor, students may supplement these courses with other relevant courses in relevant disciplines.