What to Know About the New Master of Public Policy and Data Analytics Program

Every day, policymakers rely on data to evaluate the impact of their decisions on the communities they serve, and those decisions require more than numbers. They require experts who understand what the numbers mean and the potential impact they can have.

Frequently, officials lean on the trusted guidance of data analysts who can translate empirical data into compelling narratives and ethical outcomes. A new program from the Wake Forest University School of Professional Studies (SPS) is uniquely designed to equip these professionals for a high-impact career in public policy.

The online Master of Public Policy and Data Analytics (MPPDA) program will begin in the spring 2026 semester. Here are five points to consider for furthering your career in data analytics. 

1. Explore a Promising Field with Real Impact

Data analytics is a field with growing opportunity, a trend that is expected to continue with increased data availability, adoption of tools such as AI, and policymaker engagement. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 36% growth in data scientist roles from 2023 to 2033.

Graduates of the MPPDA program will be equipped to serve a variety of roles in the public sector and policy institutes, such as:

• Data analyst
• Public policy analyst
• Data scientist
• Research analyst

As a career path, the application of data analysis within the realm of public policy can prove rewarding in multiple ways. The average salary for a public policy analyst in the U.S. is $98,215, as of June 2025. Additionally, candidates in these roles work closely with policymakers, engage with real human subjects, and make a meaningful impact in their communities.

2. Advance Leadership Skills with Human-Centered Analysis

Policymaking requires complex inputs while still maintaining the human element at its core. To effect change, data analysts must understand how data serves people—this is where the MPPDA program comes in.

Students will develop an approach to data analysis that focuses on human needs, behaviors, and motivations, in addition to technical skills and public administration. This knowledge will be applied in a capstone project where students analyze the root causes of a real-world policy challenge with consideration of historical context and propose actionable solutions through data-driven insights.

3. Inspire Change with Compelling Data Storytelling

Human decision making is both logical and emotional. To influence this process, data analysts distill and convey powerful insights that speak to real-life experiences while remaining grounded in sound methodology.

Students in the MPPDA program will hone their ability to build data visualizations using technology and develop communications skills to help their findings resonate with stakeholders. In the Data Analytics and Public Administration course, students will learn how to model critical decisions and communicate their conclusions simply and effectively. 

Through combining the tactile observations of data science with the art of storytelling, students can craft factual narratives that help make a difference.

4. Apply Data Analysis Ethically for the Public Good

Serving the public effectively means data analysts must treat data and, more importantly, the people behind the numbers with the utmost respect. 

This begins with developing an appreciation for the ethical frameworks and principles that inform public policy on the micro and macro levels. From there, it’s important for students to learn how to apply these philosophies in a policy sphere with new innovative tools, such as AI. 

The safeguarding and ethical application of data is an evolving field. In it, policymakers are actively engaging in crafting policy standards and governance models. Students will learn best practices for ensuring data is collected, stored, and utilized responsibly and how to assess different data sources for quality, potential biases, and other considerations.  

5. Fast Facts About the Program

• Average time to complete: 2 years 
• Courses: 10 (nine core courses + one elective)
• Tuition: $38,940 
• One core course we’re excited about: Public Policy Implementation & Management

Learn more about the newest Wake Forest SPS program and request more information now.