MA in Public Policy
- Mogadishu, Somalia
- Evening Study
Introduction
The Master of Arts in Public Policy (MAPP) is designed to prepare the next generation of policymakers, analysts, and leaders capable of addressing complex governance and development challenges in Somalia and beyond. Somalia’s post-conflict reconstruction, institution-building, and state transformation require highly trained professionals who can design, implement, and evaluate policies that foster peace, stability, and sustainable development.
This program combines global public policy theories and practices with a strong emphasis on Somalia’s governance, political economy, and state-building context. It equips graduates with the analytical tools, leadership skills, and practical experience necessary to craft evidence-based policies that respond to both national priorities and international development agendas, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Africa’s Agenda 2063.
Specific Objectives
The program seeks to:
- Provide students with a strong foundation in public policy theory, practice, and research.
- Enhance analytical and critical thinking skills for evidence-based policymaking.
- Develop competencies in governance, political economy, public finance, and regulatory frameworks relevant to fragile and developing states.
- Strengthen capacity in policy communication, advocacy, and digital governance.
- Foster integrity, accountability, and ethical decision-making in public service.
- Equip graduates with research and evaluation skills applicable to Somali and international policy contexts.
Expected Learning Outcomes
By the end of the program, graduates will be able to:
- Apply political economy and institutional analysis to policy design and implementation.
- Conduct rigorous policy analysis and program evaluation using qualitative and quantitative methods.
- Demonstrate proficiency in public financial management and budgeting within fragile states.
- Design policies that integrate principles of good governance, equity, and sustainability.
- Utilize digital governance tools and data systems for improved service delivery.
- Engage effectively in policy communication, advocacy, and negotiation.
- Conduct independent research culminating in a dissertation addressing critical policy issues in Somalia or the region.
Human Resources and Facilities
The program is delivered by experienced faculty with advanced degrees in public policy, economics, governance, and law, many of whom combine academic expertise with practical experience in Somalia’s governance sector and international organizations. Students will have access to:
- A modern library with digital databases and policy resources.
- Computer laboratories equipped with data analysis software (SPSS, Stata, R).
- Policy research centers and networks affiliated with SIMAD University.
- Online learning platforms to support blended and flexible learning.
Exam Regulations
Assessment Methods: Combination of coursework, presentations, case studies, written examinations, and research projects.
Grading Policy: The university’s graduate grading scale applies, with a pass mark of 50%.
Progression Rules: Students must pass all core modules and at least two electives before progressing to the dissertation stage.
Dissertation: Assessed through written submission (20,000–25,000 words) and oral defense.
Award of the Degree
The Master of Arts in Public Policy (MAPP) degree shall be awarded to students who:
- Successfully complete all required core and elective modules.
- Achieve the minimum pass mark in all assessments.
- Submit and defend a dissertation that demonstrates the ability to conduct independent research and apply policy analysis tools to a relevant problem.
Keys
| CU: Credit hours | CH: Contact hours | LH: Lecture hours | PH: Practical hours |
|---|---|---|---|
Admission Requirements
oLearn Graduate School Admission Requirements
To apply for admission to oLearn’s Graduate Programs, applicants must meet the following criteria and submit all required documentation:
Academic Requirements
• Original Bachelor’s Degree Certificate and Transcript
• Original Secondary School Certificate
Photographs
• Four (4) recent passport-size photos with a white background
Registration Fee
• A non-refundable fee of USD $100 (to be paid via bank draft)
English Language Requirement
• Applicants must either:
o Pass an English proficiency test, or
o Enroll in oLearn’s Flexible English Skills Program
| FIRST TRIMESTER (I) | SECOND TRIMESTER (II) | THIRD TRIMESTER (III) |
|---|---|---|
|
September, 2025 |
January, 2026 |
May, 2026 |