Master’s
Program

 

Kautilya offers a 2-year, full-time residential Master’s in Public Policy (MPP), a 103-credit program with a curriculum designed to expand knowledge, enhance skills, and instil values. The course will bring together students from diverse disciplines and allow time to internalize and apply key concepts. Our curriculum embraces international pedagogical and research outlook, while engaging with the ground realities of India and her citizens.

Beyond classroom learning, you will have numerous opportunities to actively network with policy professionals through symposiums and seminar sessions. You will also have the chance to share your thoughts on various policy topics through participation in conferences and hackathons.

Our curriculum is designed from international best practice frameworks, and contextualised specifically to tackle the complexities of the Indian ecosystem.

Each year consists of three terms.

The foundation, core and elective courses in the first-year curriculum will expand your knowledge of Indian governance and policymaking structures and approaches. Through dedicated skill shops, you will also learn how to negotiate and persuade, write public speeches and Op-Ed Columns, and communicate verbally and non-verbally in various professional settings.

At the end of the first year, you will have the opportunity to undertake a 3-month internship with an organization of your choice during the summer break.

In your second year, you will deep dive into one of five areas of specialization through electives covering the five policy domains: Government and Corporate Affairs, Political and Economic Development, Societal and Community Affairs, Foreign and International Affair, and, Human Rights, Institutions and Democracy.

The program culminates in a Master’s Thesis in term 6, based on a Capstone Project (CAP), undertaken either independently with an organization of your choice or as part of a faculty-led group research project on a current policy issue.

Why Kautilya?

  • Access to top minds – public policy leaders & the best international faculty
  • Experienced founding team comprising of Stanford, Harvard & IIM alumni
  • World class infrastructure at par with Ivy League Schools to enrich learning experience and campus life
  • Program curriculum and structure geared for academic depth as well as practical application
  • Quality engagement with Society, Government and Business on furthering evidence based policy making and inclusive growth
  • Scholarships and Placement Assistance

Eligibility

If you’re passionate about making a difference to the governance of our country, are ambitious, focused and committed to play a role in public policy, and are eager to grow personally and professionally through this experience, you’re just who we’re looking for.

Whether you’re in the final year of your undergraduate degree or a working professional (with a bachelor’s degree), you’re welcome to apply. Work experience is a bonus, but not mandatory.

If you are from a professional background different from public policy but have a vision for policymaking in the country, we’re glad to have you at Kautilya. Students from different backgrounds only make everyone’s experience richer.

Frequently Asked
Questions

What is the course structure of MPP at Kautilya?

The MPP consists of 6 terms of 3 months each with 24 courses at a minimum, an internship, a capstone project, and 10 skill shops.

How many students will be admitted to MPP?

A class size of 60 students is envisaged for the cohort of 2021-2023.

Is MPP a compulsorily residential program?

Yes. This is a compulsorily residential program with hostel facilities. The program rigor will require the students to stay on campus.

What career progressions can we expect post a course in public policy?

Career opportunities in the field of public policy have grown by leaps and bounds in India. Please refer to the ‘About’ section of this website for a detailed perspective.

Does Kautilya provide financial aid? What is the process of availing financial aid?

Yes. Kautilya will provide financial aid to students based on their financial background. Please refer to the ‘Admissions’ page of this website.

Is this a degree program?

Yes. You will get a Master’s degree on successfully completing the two-year program. Kautilya is a part of GITAM (Deemed to be University). GITAM is a category A University. It is graded A+ by NAAC with 40 years of legacy and having UGC, AICTE approved courses.

What kind of industry immersion does Kautilya provide?

The MPP consists of an internship, a capstone project and 10 skill shops.

Is a letter of recommendation mandatory?

Yes, two letters of recommendation are mandatory for application to Kautilya.

Who can be my recommender?

Your professor or employer can be your recommender.

How do I accept the offer of admission?

You may accept the offer by remitting a non-refundable admission fee of Rs. 100000 within the deadline specified in the offer. If the amount has not been paid within the deadline, the offer will be withdrawn.

Does Kautilya have a deferral policy on admissions?

Deferrals are allowed till end of February.