JU Public Policy Institute takes major step forward with SACS approval of all degree programs

Reaching another milestone as it prepares to launch the first Master in Public Policy degree program in Florida this fall, the Jacksonville University Public Policy Institute has received approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools for its signature degree program and all three of its dual degree programs.

The Institute is offering a Master in Public Policy (MPP) degree, as well as the first MPP-JD (juris doctor), MPP-MBA (master in business administration) and MPP/MA-MS/MSC (marine science) dual degree programs in the state. The MPP-JD is being offered in conjunction with Florida Coastal School of Law.

All the programs were approved by the SACS accrediting agency, said JU PPI Director Rick Mullaney.

“This approval is a major step forward for the JU Public Policy Institute and is a great credit to the JU faculty and the JU MPP program and curriculum,” he said.

Prospective students can visit ju.edu/ppi to submit an application online, or can print application forms and mail them if they desire.

“The JU Public Policy program, like JU’s signature Health Sciences, Business and Marine Science programs, is playing an important role in our region and state,” said JU President Tim Cost. “Our MPP program will prepare students for the marketplace and for leadership. This approval is a great compliment to the quality of the program and its extraordinary community partners.”

The JU MPP degree is a two-year, 48-credit program, and students are guaranteed an internship after their first year at one of 15 public, private and non-profit organizations, including the Governor’s Office, Congressional Offices, Mayor’s Office, Jacksonville Port Authority, Jacksonville Transportation Authority, JEA, Duval County Public Schools, Jacksonville Public Education Fund, The Community Foundation, JCCI, CSX, Florida Blue and more. MPP graduates work in the public, private and non-profit sectors.

“This is the only MPP program in Florida, and this approval moves Jacksonville University closer to becoming one of the leading public policy institutions in the state of Florida,” said Richard Sisisky, chairman of the JU PPI board.

To learn more about the Jacksonville University Public Policy Institute or to apply, visit www.ju.edu/ppi, e-mail rmullan1@ju.edu or call (904) 955-1857.