Public Policy

Online Master of Public Policy (MPP)

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$0 Transfer Credit Evaluation

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About This Program

The Master of Public Policy (MPP) at American Military University (AMU) introduces a broad understanding of policy that can be applied to a variety of disciplines, including cybersecurity, environment, health, law, national security, and space.

AMU’s MPP online degree is designed to build skills needed to solve today’s real-world issues. The curriculum focuses on a leadership skill set centered on these areas:

  • Sound research
  • Data analysis
  • Creative and critical thinking
  • Communication
  • Action

Our MPP degree program includes case study review and writing exercises.

What You Will Do

  1. Evaluate the multidisciplinary nature of the major theories underlying the discipline of public policy
  2. Extrapolate the processes by which public policies are designed, implemented, and evaluated
  3. Evaluate the effectiveness of existing (or the impact of proposed) public policies
  4. Demonstrate appropriate analytical skills to analyze contemporary policy issues
  5. Design public policies to solve strategic or social problems

View Program Outcome Assessment Results

Degree at a Glance

Number of Credits
36
Cost Per Credit
$455 | $250*
$386.75** | $409.50***
Courses Start Monthly
Online
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Program Requirements Printable Catalog Version

Students must choose a concentration for this degree program:

Environmental Policy represents one of the major policy realms that cross discipline, geography, and history. Students will study the interplay between economic and political factors and their impact on the environment, as well as review existing paradigms for environmental planning, analysis, and management. This concentration may also prepare students for study at the doctorate level in related fields.

Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:

  • Distinguish the key variables and theoretical frameworks for incorporating economic interests into Distinguish the key variables and theoretical frameworks for incorporating economic interests into environmental policy.
  • Analyze the similarities and differences of specific environmental policies from culturally and geographically diverse areas of the world.
  • Analyze the economics of a specific environmental policy.
  • Critique current policies and evaluate validity of environmental policy as it relates to economic issues and drivers.
  • Analyze an environmental policy’s economic impact both spatially and temporally.
  • Examine the major legal, regulatory, and policy framework that encompasses environmental programs and projects in the United States.
  • Analyze interconnections among environmental policy, laws, and regulations, and between them and environmental management and other disciplines in management, government, science, and engineering.
  • Assess the U.S. role and level of involvement in international environmental policy.

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 2746

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This course is a qualitative and quantitative study of the public and private economic costs and effects of environmental programs, industrialization, regulation, and international and national environmental policies, among other issues.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2747

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This course is a study of the major legal, regulatory, and policy framework that encompasses environmental programs and projects in the United States and with international political, commercial, and non-governmental institutions. The primary learning approach used in this course will be case studies.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4655

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This course consists of an in-depth review of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), its legislative background and history, significant case law, and Council of Environmental Quality (CEQ) Guidelines. Students will review examples of agency Categorical Exclusions, Environmental Assessments, and Environmental Impact Statements to become familiar with the documents as a building block for EVSP629 Environmental Impact Analysis. Students will evaluate whether specific documents "meet the intent or spirit" of NEPA, compare state vs. federal NEPA regulations, and review at least one federal agency’s NEPA procedures. (Prerequisite: EVSP503)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3982

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This course is an introduction to energy policy and decision making, primarily in the United States. Students will examine the nature and scope of environmental, energy, and resource problems, analyze the goals and strategies of the renewable energy movement, investigate ideological, political, and institutional forces that shape policymaking and implementation, and conduct in-depth analyses of the various approaches to U.S. energy needs. An exploration of renewable energy technology, feasibility, and implementation is incorporated through the analysis of case studies and current events.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Health Policy is a growing field, especially now, and our nation looks to policy experts to understand, translate, and explain massive healthcare legislation. Masters of Public Policy students who choose a concentration in Health Policy will gain the knowledge often needed to inform, direct, analyze, and report on public health issues and policy responses. Graduates will learn to craft policies, but also help the nation understand and adapt to them.

Objectives:

Students who successfully complete this program will be able to:

  • Examine how social, behavioral, environmental, and biological factors contribute to specific individual and community health outcomes.
  • Analyze the critical factors that will influence health and health care in the first decade of the 21st century.
  • Compare and contrast the theories regarding health care systems.
  • Evaluate health care policies and their influence on the development, operation, design and effectiveness of health care delivery systems.
  • Assess the efficacy of public health programs and initiatives such as Medicare, Medicaid and State Children’s Health Insurance Program (S-CHIP).
  • Deconstruct the relationship between public health and policy responses.
  • Appraise the public health issues associated with various disasters.
  • Examine health care issues that confront emergency management decision makers.
  • Analyze past and future approaches to disaster health management programs.

Choose 12 credit hours from this section.

Course ID: 4771

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This course will prepare students to navigate the area of corporate compliance within the health care industry by identifying risks and avoiding possible liability by examining a myriad of laws, regulations, policy guidance, enforcement initiatives, and certifications (e.g. HIPAA, Stark laws). The course will provide students with a foundation in the core elements of corporate compliance. Students will evaluate various tools and strategies necessary for an effective corporate compliance program to protect a health care organization and avoid penalties as a result of non-compliance.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session

Course ID: 4789

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This course examines how population-based theories and practice inform community/public nursing practice. An emphasis is placed on the ecology of health and the interconnectedness of the biological, behavioral, physical, and socio environmental domains. Students will analyze root causes of health disparities including cultural, political, social, racial, class, gender and economic factors and examine the role of social justice to improving population health. Strategies for collaboration and advocacy with diverse population and groups will be explored.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4792

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Today’s healthcare providers must promote health, influence the health delivery system, and participate in policy advocacy to improve the healthcare outcomes of populations. In this course, students will examine the effects of legal and regulatory processes on healthcare delivery at institutional, local, state, and federal levels. Topics covered in this course will include healthcare policy development, accrediting agencies, quality improvement, and patient quality and safety. (Prerequisite: NURS502)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2836

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This course introduces students to the role of public health systems in America. The function of federal, state, and local public health agencies will be examined, as well as current political, environmental, epidemiologic, legal and ethical issues impacting the field public health. Students will also explore future challenges facing public health professionals in the 21st century.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2691

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This course is designed to give the student an in-depth understanding of the roles that government and the consumer (the patient) can, and do, play in the ever-evolving health care industry. This course places special emphasis on politics and ethics and the results when they clash, as well as how politics and ethics form the mental attitudes of decision makers. This course is rich in information on the various political and ethical dilemmas facing the patients in the new millennium.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3888

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This course will investigate ethical issues in public health through discussion of case studies and applicable ethical theories.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2825

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This course focuses on the principles, types, and forms of health management systems that exist to serve public needs during society’s most threatening crises. Topics range from international and national political and policy views of disaster health management down to local levels where leading hospitals and emergency managers must respond to public health disasters on a daily basis.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Students of public policy must understand how an idea becomes a law, but MPP students who choose a concentration in Policy and the Law will become experts in the judicial process and the enforcement and execution of our laws. This concentration explores ethics, contractual obligations, procedural due process, and new developments in security and the law.

Objectives:

Students who successfully complete this program will be able to:

  • Interpret complex contract language.
  • Examine specific cases of contract law and extrapolate the laws and precedents established.
  • Extrapolate the development of Constitutional Law in the areas of judicial, legislative, and executive powers.
  • Analyze the separation of powers, federalism, national and state regulation of commerce, and property rights.
  • Interpret the role of the judiciary by examining landmark constitutional decisions.
  • Examine the Bill of Rights and the U.S. Constitution.
  • Evaluate policies related to cybersecurity.
  • Explore laws related to cybersecurity issues, including litigation, intellectual property and privacy.

Choose 12 credit hours from this section.

Course ID: 3909

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A survey of the legal structure that defines and regulates the nonprofit sector and an examination of fundamental governance issues in nonprofit corporations. The focus of the course is on the board of directors (trustees) and the executive director and their fiduciary responsibilities established both by law and by the moral imperatives from actions on behalf of the public interest.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2686

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This course is a conceptual and functional analysis of the legal framework and principles of employment law. Issues are addressed from a managerial perspective so that students have an opportunity to develop their business decision-making skills, (via employment law scenarios), as they relate to the evaluation of legal ramifications affecting a variety of workplace situations. Topics include the agency-employment relationship; discrimination under Civil Rights Act Title VII and other federal laws based on race/color, gender, age, national origin, religion, pregnancy, and sexual orientation; diversity, affirmative action, and bona fide occupational qualifications; employer negligence in hiring; criminal checks and credit screenings; physical fitness, ethics, and personality tests for employment purposes; vicarious liability, sexual harassment, and workplace violence; challenges with organized labor/unions under the National Labor Relations Act; working standards including pay, hours, age requirements, etc. set by the Fair Labor Standards Act and state equivalents; and challenges arising from the Family and Medical Leave Act.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3850

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This course provides the student with a theoretical foundation in Constitutional law. The Constitution divides power. In particular, it apportions authority along three main dimensions: between the state and federal governments; among the branches of the federal government; and between, on the one hand, all levels of government and, on the other hand, individuals. The vast majority of live constitutional questions concern a conflict along one or more of these axes. Students will study issues of policy, principle, philosophy, and constitutional implications by focusing on construction and application. This graduate course will explore advanced principles, doctrines and controversies regarding the structure of and division of powers in American government. Specific topics include judicial review, jurisdiction, standing to sue, federalism, federal and state powers and immunities, the separation of powers among the branches of the federal government, the First Amendment, and the Equal Protection Clause.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4490

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This course focuses on the ways that law, ethics and cybersecurity overlap and intersect. Besides laws related to cybersecurity, the course examines laws related to intellectual property, civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, and privacy. This examination will provide the means to identify and analyze the policies reflected in those laws. Those policies could guide the creation of policies on a business-level, using qualitative risk assessment and planning. An exploration of ethics and cybersecurity, as well as of workplace ethics, will involve the use of an ethical framework.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3555

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This course introduces students to the role of the judiciary in American politics and policymaking and explores the questions asked and the methods employed by political scientists studying courts and the legal system. An equally important objective of this course is to familiarize students with the seminal works in judicial research, with particular emphasis on Supreme Court cases. Students will study the judicial process in the United States from a variety of perspectives in order to examine the role of law and courts in the larger political arena and social environment.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Public Policy students who choose to focus on National Security Policy will be positioned to advise officials on issues of strategic importance. Combine this degree concentration with your work experience and training to further your knowledge and skills often required in the growing public and private sector industry of policy analysis and strategic planning. This is a concentration of interest to civilian and military students who seek to gain advanced understanding in national security policy, security policy analysis, and related fields.

Objectives:

Students who successfully complete this program will be able to:

  • Deconstruct individual actors’ roles and contributions to national security policy.
  • Differentiate among conflicting and competing interests and their impact on national security policy development.
  • Examine the foundations of U.S. National Security Policy
  • Analyze U.S. national security policies from the end of WWII to the end of the Cold War.
  • Assess the effectiveness of U.S. National Security strategies available to the United States.
  • Analyze the historical practice of diplomacy by states.
  • Assess the use of diplomacy by states to implement their national security strategies.

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 3475

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The course will cover the roles, missions, organization, capabilities, unique cultures, and strategic purposes of the President, the Departments of State and Defense, Congress, the National Security Council, the Armed Forces, the Intelligence Community, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Students will also learn how these actors interact to formulate national security strategy. In addition, students will examine some successes and failures of the interagency process and will gain an appreciation of the capabilities, limitations, and organizational cultures of the players in the national security community.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3474

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This course is highly recommended as the first course for national security studies students. It assesses the major concepts of strategic thinking that underpin the national security decision-making process in the U.S. The course surveys national security policies since the end of the Cold War and examines regional security concerns to the U.S. In addition, it covers the concept and principal components of national security strategy and evaluates the most important theories that explain how states and non-state actors interact in the international arena. Students will examine the current challenges to U.S. national security interests, including terrorism and the proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction, and will evaluate future national security policies and challenges.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3492

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This course will examine the implications of rising world-wide economic interdependence upon relevant aspects of U.S. national security policy. The phenomenon of globalization will be analyzed from an economic standpoint and related security issues, such as the effectiveness of sanctions, the ability to regulate commerce in weapons and technology, and the changing global balance in military capabilities will be considered in this context.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3493

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This course assesses the role of diplomacy in national security policy development and implementation. It investigates diplomacy as an element of national power and how diplomacy is used by senior diplomats and military officials in the international sphere. The course provides an overview of the history, development, and trends in diplomacy. It will also examine different methods of building relationships, cross-cultural norms and communication challenges in the international environment, as well as the integration of traditional and public diplomacy with other elements of national power.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Cybersecurity touches almost every aspect of public policy. This concentration focuses on the issues, policies, practices, and perspectives of various sectors, critical infrastructures, agencies, and disciplines, such as national security, intelligence, criminal justice, and emergency management. Cyber threats can have an adverse effect on public confidence, stock markets, economic sectors, and other critical infrastructures. The need for trained experts in this field who can prevent, detect, and eliminate such threats is critical to our national security.

Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:

  • Analyze the national cyber threat landscape and cybersecurity challenges from both external entities and domestic sources.
  • Examine the legal, social, regulatory, ethical, and technical issues related to securing information systems and national critical infrastructures.
  • Compare and contrast the interdisciplinary policies, practices, perspectives and products required to address the cyber threats to our information systems and critical infrastructures..

Choose 12 credit hours from this section.

Course ID: 4562

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A healthy cyberinfrastructure is the foundation of emergency and disaster management. It provides emergency and disaster management agencies the ability to effectively address and respond to natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and law enforcement issues. Technology has leveled the global playing field, and the impact on the cyberinfrastructure must be assessed among all relevant communities. This means implementing cybersecurity awareness into all levels of emergency and disaster management through: knowledge management, task behavior, dissemination of information, cyberinfrastructure impact awareness, communication, and deterrence. Students will be exposed to planning, management, response, and recovery factors related to cyberinfrastructure, as well as analyze economic, social, and technical aspects of cybersecurity associated with public emergencies and disasters.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4528

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This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the cyber intelligence field and is intended to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills often needed to navigate the complex world of cyber threats, vulnerabilities, and risks. Students will explore the full range of cyber capabilities from exploitation to defense, including several case studies that demonstrate the challenges and benefits of cyber intelligence operations. Through discussion forums and a research project, students will gain a deeper understanding of the role cyber intelligence plays in national security and the protection of critical infrastructures.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4100

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This course is an advanced study of information ethics, cyber privacy, and intellectual property. It examines the ethical, economic, and societal issues that face today’s information-entrenched society; this includes intellectual property rights, privacy, accessibility and censorship. The explosive growth of information technology, the increased competition in the global marketplace, and the surge in the use of information to protect society from terrorism has led to the unintended erosion of fundamental rights and values. This course appraises the current state of information ethics, the dangers and opportunities presented by information technology, and the potential solutions to the inherent risks in today’s information-bound society.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4490

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This course focuses on the ways that law, ethics and cybersecurity overlap and intersect. Besides laws related to cybersecurity, the course examines laws related to intellectual property, civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, and privacy. This examination will provide the means to identify and analyze the policies reflected in those laws. Those policies could guide the creation of policies on a business-level, using qualitative risk assessment and planning. An exploration of ethics and cybersecurity, as well as of workplace ethics, will involve the use of an ethical framework.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4514

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This course will provide an overview of current cyber policy and strategy for non-practitioners in a national security framework. Students will study the cyber threat environment; laws and policies that govern cyber security; current and historical structure, functions, and capabilities of private and governmental agencies comprising the cyber community; and future trends that affect national security
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

This concentration will give the administrator the background to be able to understand the ramifications of policy and law on the future of the space industry, both in the US and globally. The implications of policy for both the public and private sector will be explored.

Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:

  • Examine the political and commercial significance of major national and international space missions, projects, and operations.
  • Evaluate organizations that are critical to the success of the technological advance of space infrastructure in the United States.
  • Assess the status of space cooperation and diplomacy between various space faring nations.
  • Synthesize space laws and how the governing institutions affect applications such as remote sensing, communications, navigation, launch services, satellite exports, and arms control.

Choose 12 credit hours from this section.

Course ID: 3713

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Space exploration and exploitation have become global activities. While the United States and the Soviet Union were battling for supremacy during the Cold War and striving for “firsts” in the Space Race, several nascent space powers were blossoming in the background. Not limited to the U.S. and USSR, the dream of spaceflight sprouted in lands as diverse as France, Germany, China, Japan, India, Israel and Brazil. The European Space Agency, the Chinese Space Program, the Japanese Space Program and the Indian Space Program have become space powerhouses. A study of these various programs is essential to gain a thorough understanding that space exploration is not only a global enterprise, but also an important concern for our own national security.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 3720

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Since the beginning of the Space Age, U.S. Civil Space Policy has been a cornerstone in determining space organizational structures, mission objectives, and resource distribution. From the launch of Explorer 1 through the Apollo Program Moon landings and continuing on to the Space Shuttle and International Space Station operations, the U.S. Government has been heavily involved in establishing space exploration and exploitation. A study of the various players in the space community, the various government interfaces, and an emphasis on budget development is important to study the roles that policy has played in our nation’s space program.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session

Course ID: 3721

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This course is a comparative study of the major industrialized nations' space organizations. It begins with the US and presents an overview of NASA and non-NASA government agencies supporting space exploration. Comparative views are presented for other countries which then allows the student to select the country of their choice (as approved by the instructor) to compare/contrast its space organization with that of the United States. Students will review the fundamental roles of significant space organization, budgets, and goals and objectives in comparison and contrast between the US and another country.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3722

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This course is a study of management issues involved in the vision, planning, design, structure and operations of new and existing facilities and vehicles. The course will include a review of existing vehicles and facilities and those that will be required in the upcoming quarter century.

Course ID: 4834

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This course will examine the importance of international space cooperation and diplomacy, enabling all nations, states, and consortiums to enjoy the benefits of space technology and ensuring the safety, stability, and security of outer space. Students will work in teams or individually and think critically about the importance of cooperating with both allies and if necessary, adversaries, to develop potential solutions to the world’s most critical and complex problems in space. Some of the topics of discussion will include the history of civilian and military space development; the ongoing debate on weapons in space; the past and current policy and guidance on space activities; the current threats to the safety and stability of space operations; the types of International cooperation; and a discussion of the cooperation strategies the US should pursue.

Course ID: 3964

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This course examines space law from its origins at the commencement of space exploration to current day activities, including civilian, commercial and military/governmental issues/rulings. The Outer Space Treaty, Registration Convention, Rescue and Return Agreement, Liability Convention, and the Moon Treaty will be covered in detail, as will several other past, standing and pending legal works.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 2687

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This course is a comprehensive analysis of how human resource policies are formulated by evaluating the interdependence of human resource and operating functions. Students will have the opportunity to assess policies geared toward high profile HR areas such as talent management, Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) regulations, employee development and compensation. Emphasis will be placed on policies and strategies as they relate to managing an intergenerational workforce. Additional special topics include network security, workplace violence, and bullying.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4676

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In an increasingly complex geopolitical environment, concepts of “governance,” “polity,” and “policy” need exploration, definition, and clarity. This course lays the multi-disciplinary groundwork for this program, introducing the roots of the field and the expectations of the program. Students will explore the process of policy making, the conditions which influence administrative decisions, and the theoretical underpinnings of the discipline.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4677

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The art of good public writing involves many stages: good memos and grant proposals do not just “happen” overnight. And competent reports or engaging press releases do not constitute everything you know about their central subject. They are the product of much thought, research and frequently much revision. The good news is that, like any technique, it is one that can be learned through practice and useful feedback. MAPP 502 is designed to provide just this, with a special emphasis on developing self-evaluation techniques for you to draw from and use professionally long after you have completed your Master’s degree.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4679

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This course critically assesses the role the government plays in the economy and how this affects federal, state and local public policy making and vice versa. We first deconstruct and critique basic economic concepts like public goods and externalities and cover the central theoretical principles that apply to public economics. We then use these to evaluate the federal budget, taxation and income redistribution with a special focus on social security, education, health care and defense policy. Students will develop a critical sense of their own economic policy positions and apply these to their area of concentration.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2709

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This course examines the way government policies emerge from the political process and are implemented through participating institutions. In this class students will investigate how good analysis can contribute to informed policy-making and review the factors that go into developing effective implementation strategies. In addition, today’s need for enhanced public accountability and the challenging problems of measuring program performance are examined.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3551

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This course provides an introduction to the law and legal system as it applies to public administration and policy. It covers the interrelation of norms, moral codes and formal laws. The attempt to address social concerns with new laws and regulations has created increased pressure in the courts and legislative chambers. This course examines the sources, influences, operation and consequences of law and public policy formation, and analyzes public policy initiatives from political and legal aspects as to their intentions, achievable aims, and intended and unintended outcomes.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session
Select any courses that have not been used to fulfill major requirements. Credits applied toward a minor or certificate in an unrelated field may be used to fulfill elective credit for the major.

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 4936

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The Public Policy Project Capstone course gives students the opportunity to choose a current policy in which they are interested and conduct an in-depth policy analysis from many critical perspectives. This will be supported by submissions of a policy brief, target audience assessment, budgetary analysis and timeline and a strategic media plan. The creative project must demonstrate originality and will follow the style requirements set by the department currently the American Psychological Association (APA) Publication Manual. NOTE: This course may not be taken until all other courses are COMPLETED.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 09/22/24 Spring 2024 Session C 16 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 10/20/24 Summer 2024 Session A 16 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 11/24/24 Summer 2024 Session K 16 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 12/22/24 Summer 2024 Session C 16 Week session

Courses Start Monthly

Next Courses Start Jan 6
Register by Jan 3

Admission Requirements

  • All AMU master's degree/graduate certificate programs require a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an institution whose accreditation is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA®).
  • Please read all graduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation.
  • There is no fee to complete the AMU admission application for this program. View steps to apply.

CHEA® is a registered trademark of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. 

Materials Cost

Most courses in this program use Open Educational Resources (OER). These teaching, learning, and research materials are made available to you at no cost, meaning there are minimal book costs associated with earning this degree.

Technology fee: $85 per course

Need Help?

Selecting the right program to meet your educational goals is a key step in ensuring a successful outcome. If you are unsure of which program to choose, or need more information, please contact an AMU admissions coach at 877-755-2787 or [email protected].

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Maryland Residents learn more about costs, completion rates, median debt, and more.

2Alumni Graduated with No APUS-incurred Student Loan Debt As of December 31, 2021

Includes alumni who graduated with an associate, bachelor's, or master's degree from APUS. Student loan debt is defined as student loans and private education loans used for tuition, fees, living expenses, and book costs associated with courses taken at APUS. Many APUS students receive military tuition assistance and veterans education benefits, which are not student loan debt.

1The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.

*Cost Per Credit Hour

The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and  master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.

See all military student benefits.

Cost of Attendance

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