Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU)’s College of Public Policy (CPP) has launched its newest program, the Master of Social Policy and Program Evaluation (MSPPE). The full-time two-year MSPPE offers students a unique opportunity to develop the skills to shape the strategic direction of social policy and program evaluation in Qatar and further afield. Commencing in September 2022, the program is open to students of all fields particularly those with work experience in social policy and/or policy evaluation. 

The combination of evaluation and social policy, and the intensive training students receive in program evaluation, marks the MSPPE as unique to the region. The program will build advanced analytical and substantive knowledge of social policy and program evaluation. Students will learn evaluation skills that are integral to developing reliable evidence to inform programs and policies, support communities, as well as drive organizational change in the public, private, and non-profit sectors on issues of local and global importance. 

The interdisciplinary degree will draw from multiple fields of study, including economics, political science, sociology, psychology, education, law, applied ethics, and public health. Classroom teaching will be supplemented by applied research through CPP’s public policy lab as well as internship opportunities that offer real-world, practical experience. All students will be required to complete a master's thesis that addresses a research topic relevant for Qatar, the Middle East, or globally. 

“The goal of social policy is ultimately human and societal well-being. With this intent, our new master’s program will challenge students to assess the ethical foundations of social policy interventions. With the knowledge they gain, they will become professionals who are ready to lead in assessing and evaluating social policy programs, both to improve outcomes and provide solutions to social problems,” said Dr. Anis Ben Brik, Associate Professor and Coordinator of the MSPPE Program at CPP.

Dr. Leslie A. Pal, Founding Dean of CPP, said: “The degree program will build vital national capacity in social policy programming and support Qatar’s national development through evidence-based and ethically informed social policies.” 

The MSPPE will be supported by the Program for Social Policy Evaluation and Research (PROSPER) at CPP, whose research agenda is aimed at benefiting social policy and evaluation research at the local, regional, and international level through education programs, research activities and support for government departments, international organizations, civil society and private sector bodies.

Admission is now open for the MSPPE and for CPP’s two-year Master of Public Policy (MPP). Interested students should visit cpp.hbku.edu.qa. Specific inquiries may also be directed to Ayah Deif at ADeif@hbku.edu.qa