Master's Degrees: Planning and Registration
From the moment you start at the Humphrey School to the time you graduate, you will take an active role in planning and completing your degree. The information, resources needed, and steps to complete your degree are outlined below. The Office of Career and Student Success is here to help you navigate—please contact us with any questions.
Curriculum and Degree Requirements
Course Planning
Utilize your degree program’s Program Planning Worksheet to select courses and review degree requirements.
Concentration Planning Forms
In addition to the required core courses, MPP, MURP, and MHR students will select a concentration that encompasses a set of additional courses and experiences that provide an integrated portfolio of professional preparation. View the concentration planning forms for MPP, MURP, and MHR areas. Please note that forms for the MHR concentrations are currently being developed. If you have questions, contact your academic advisor.
Final Paper, Capstone, and Thesis Information
- MDP, MPA, and MURP students must complete the Capstone Workshop (PA 8081) as part of their degree
- MHR, MPP, and MS-STEP students will select one of the following options: Capstone Workshop (PA 8081) OR Individual Paper (PA 8921)
Class and Registration Information
Access resources to help you choose courses, understand registration processes and timelines, and explore highlighted classes each semester.
PhD Planning and Overview
Visit the PhD in public affairs site or download our PhD handbook for information on degree planning and completion. You'll also find information about important first steps to take after you're admitted, including how to register for classes, how to access University of Minnesota student resources, and details about funding opportunities. For additional information, email Carla Mantel or call her at 612-624-5288.
Certificates: Planning and Completion
The word “graduation” can have many meanings. You will not find the word used in the flow of certificate completion procedures. Instead, we talk about "commencement," the ceremony held in May that celebrates your certificate completion. It is not actually when you get your certificate. You will receive your certificate when the following certificate requirements have been met:
- All coursework approved for your plan of study has been completed with a passing grade
- All necessary Humphrey and Graduate School documents have been submitted and approved
- Your University account balance is zero
There are several steps in planning and completing your certificate. We are here to help you navigate every step of the way. It is easier to tackle by following the steps listed below.
Certificate Completion Steps
For certificate degree completion, please follow the steps outlined on the “PBC Degree Completions Steps” website.