The Master of Social Policy and Program Evaluation (MSPPE) is a full-time two-year degree offered by the College of Public Policy at HBKU. The program offers advanced analytic and substantive knowledge in policy and program evaluation to prepare professionals for careers in the public, private, and non-profit sectors on issues of local and global significance.

The program supports Qatar’s national development by advancing evidence-based and ethically informed policymaking, strengthening the design and evaluation of public programs, and building national capacity in policy and program evaluation.

The MSPPE offers students a distinctive opportunity to develop advanced evaluation skills required to inform policies and programs with credible evidence, improve public and organizational performance, and support effective decision-making across multiple sectors. The program prepares graduates to play a leading role in shaping the design, implementation, and evaluation of policies and programs in Qatar and beyond.

 

Number of Students (as of Fall 2024)

ProgramContinuingNew First TimeGrand Total
MPP232851
MSPPE151328
Grand Total384179

Language

English

Program Duration

2 Years

Certification

Masters

The MSPPE offers a strong combination of theory, policy analysis, and advanced research and evaluation methods using quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods approaches, alongside opportunities for applied, real-world learning. Because policy and program evaluation ultimately aim to improve human and societal well-being, students will also be challenged to reflect on and apply ethical principles when designing, implementing, and assessing policy interventions.

This interdisciplinary degree draws from multiple fields of study, including economics, political science, sociology, psychology, education, law, applied ethics, and public health. Classroom learning for the MSPPE is supplemented by applied policy and evaluation work through public policy lab activities and internship opportunities.

Graduates of this program will be equipped to:

  • Function effectively as practitioners, senior managers, policymakers, policy analysts, and policy and program evaluators across government, the private sector, NGOs, and international organizations, contributing to the design, improvement, and implementation of effective policies and programs.
  • Develop and apply solutions to complex policy and program challenges that integrate economic, ethical, and societal considerations while adhering to professional evaluation standards.
  • Apply advanced policy and program evaluation knowledge to assess effectiveness, improve performance, and enhance the impact of policies and programs.

A 36-credit program taught over two years that includes:

  • Core courses (21 credits)
    • Advanced Methods for Program Evaluation
    • Research Methods for Public Policy
    • Benefit-Cost Analysis for Program Evaluation
    • Program Evaluation Planning and Design
    • In addition to other policy and program evaluation courses with a focus on ethics, law, policy cycle & program design, and qualitative methods for program evaluation.
  • Two elective courses (6 credits) 
    Students have the option of two elective courses offered within the College of Public Policy or from other HBKU programs (with approval).
  • Thesis (9 credits) 
    Students are required to complete a master’s thesis on a topic relevant to Qatar, the Middle East, or global policy and program evaluation. The thesis must define a clear field of inquiry and researchable questions, demonstrate strong engagement with the relevant literature, and apply appropriate evaluation or policy research methods. It should contribute through original analysis and show rigorous, critical use of concepts, evidence, and methodological approaches.

    Given the strong student demand for applied, practice-oriented learning and the value of completing a real-world evaluation project with partner organizations, the College also considers students’ preferences for the capstone track.

Applicants seeking admission to the Master of Social Policy and Program Evaluation should have a bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record (minimum 3.0 GPA out of 4.0) from a recognized university. Applicants from all fields are welcome to apply, including engineering, natural sciences, and humanities, but preference will be given to those with an academic background in political science, public administration, economics, communications, or other social sciences.

Applicants are required to submit an IELTS score of 6.5 or a TOEFL score of 79 to demonstrate their proficiency in English.

Further details about the language proficiency requirement and the process to seek exemption (where this is an option) are available at CPP Admissions.

Tuition Fees

Student Financial Information
ProgramMaster of Social Policy and Program Evaluation
Total Program Tuition FeesQAR 90,000
Tuition Fees per Credit HourQAR 2,500
Total Program Credit Hours36
Program Duration2 years