Johns Hopkins University Reviews of Master's in Public Policy

"Overall, worth the investment for a career in international relations."

"My program was nine months which was both a pro and a con. The pro was that I had a Masters degree in nine months and the con was that it was EXTREMELY intense. Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health is also the number one Public Health School in America and having that name on my resume is a benefit. The school offers many different opportunities for different interests. There is something for everyone."

"Pros - fantastic curriculum, international name recognition and classes. Cons - expensive!"

"Johns Hopkins University's School of Advanced International Studies offers truly the best education in international economics in the world. In just one semester, I have learned about diverse subjects and worked with fellow students on a multitude of projects from around the world. I consider myself so fortunate to be enrolled here. The flexibility of the program also allows for anyone to concurrently work an internship (or two in my case) and gain valuable experience. Perhaps the only con is that some of the class lectures are not conducive to volunteering information. On the whole, this school is fantastic."

"It's among the top programs in IR with outstanding faculty and excellent curricula. The unique language training program really sets this school apart from the other IR grad programs. Additionally, the tangible quantitative skills from the International Economics concentration required for all students allows immense flexibility in career opportunities and strong marketability in job searches. The financial aid is somewhat weak and the student body is a bit young. Overall, an excellent program."

"Great program. Lots of work, but it's worth it."

"The Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) is a great international affairs masters program in the heart of Washington, DC. With great professors, ambitious students, and a strong alumni network, SAIS is a top notch program. It distinguishes itself from other graduate school programs by requiring every student to take 4-6 economics classes. Students can concentrate their studies by region (Latin America, Africa, Asia, etc.) or by theme (strategic studies, international development, international law, etc.) and can advance their language studies by deepening their knowledge of a language they have already studied or learn a new language. Moreover, by being located in Washington, DC, students have daily access to policymakers, diplomats, and international business leaders. SAIS students have the option to choose from a wide variety of classes, but students are not guaranteed the classes for which they want to register. A bidding system is used, leaving some students out of the classes they want. And although the program is well located, the SAIS main campus building is old and needs to be renovated. Finally, while there are a number of international students, certain regions of the world are underrepresented. I was accepted to Georgetown, Columbia, George Washington, and American University, but I am confident that I made the right decision to attend SAIS."