What is the duration of the programme?
The EMPA programme runs for 22 months, starting in September 2025. The last module of the programme takes place in May/ June 2027, with the final assessment being submitted in May/ June 2027. Graduation will take place in July 2027.
How is the programme structured?
The EMPA is designed specifically to allow students to continue to work full-time whilst they study. The programme is taught in a combination of week-long modules (usually Monday to Friday) and Policy in Practice Workshops usually (Wednesday to Saturday). Students will complete a total of eight modules comprising of five week-long modules (usually Monday to Friday), one Introduction to Public Policy module (usually Wednesday to Friday), one Introduction to Statistics module (non-assessed and usually Saturday and Sunday), and two Policy in Practice Workshops (usually Wednesday – Saturday).
Do you accept transfer/occasional students?
No, the EMPA does not accept transfer credits. It is also not possible for students to attend individual courses without being registered for a degree programme at LSE.
What are the student demographics?
The EMPA is a very international course; our current cohort consists of 17 different nationalities in 14 different locations and includes students working in a wide range of sectors, both public and private. Please see our class profile and student directory for further information on our student class.
What are the career prospects for EMPA students?
The Executive MPA is a transformational programme that provides skills and knowledge to enhance career prospects and expand options in the area of public policy. LSE Executive MPA alumni occupy leadership positions in governments, international organisations, the private sector and think tanks around the world.
How much preparation is required for each course?
Students receive core readings prior to the start of each module which they will be required to study in advance module start date. The majority of materials are made available electronically, where possible.
How is my work assessed?
Students are assessed by a combination of exams and written assignments. All assessments take place online via Moodle, our online learning platform. Examinations take place 3 weeks after the module and essay deadlines are 6 weeks after module. During this time the Graduate Teaching Assistants will be available via email and Zoom to offer support.
What programme support is available between modules?
Throughout the course of the programme students will have access to an online learning platform (Moodle) so they can stay connected in between modules. Faculty will use this to plan inter-session activities such as revision sessions and discussions. Students can submit assignments through the site. The administration will use it to communicate with students for important announcements and reminders. By using the online technology students will remain an active part of the LSE community from wherever they are based in the world.
Is there a dissertation option?
We do not currently offer a dissertation option.
Do you provide accommodation during teaching weeks?
No, it is the student’s responsibility to organise accommodation during the teaching weeks. LSE does negotiate corporate rates with hotels near the School that students can benefit from and during some modules rooms may be available in some LSE Residencies. Please visit the accommodation webpage for more information.
Do executive students have the same privileges as full-time students?
Yes. As a registered student at LSE you will have full access to the School's services and facilities, including the famous LSE Library and the Careers Service. You will also have the opportunity to attend LSE's excellent programme of public lectures and events, given by some of the world's foremost academics, politicians and business leaders.
Do students get the same degree as those on the full time course?
Students will be awarded a Master of Public Administration.
What if I am unable to attend a module due to work commitments or other unforeseen circumstances?
We understand that students may have to miss some lectures or classes because of work commitment or due to unforeseen circumstances. Please contact the EMPA Programme Office if you are unable to attend a module/class to discuss your options. Given the level and nature of the taught material, and the benefits of interaction with faculty and other students, it is recommended that you miss as little of the lecture and class time as possible.
What happens if I am unable to complete the programme?
Whilst we expect that most of our EMPA participants will complete the whole programme, we recognise that unexpected circumstances may sometimes make this unfeasible. With this in mind, the EMPA also offers alternative exit points for participants who have completed several modules but do not think it will be possible to complete the whole degree. Please contact the EMPA Programme Manager for further details.
Can I enrol on the Executive MPP?
The Executive MPP is available only to members of the UK Civil Service who apply through an approved route. Whilst the EMPP is a closed programme, those on the EMPA programme will share up to 75% of their classes with the Civil Service during the course of the programme. Students will learn the same skills, receive the same teaching and share best practice and ideas with peers from the UK Civil Service. There will also be ample opportunities provided for EMPA students to interact and network with those on the EMPP course.
Can't Find the Answer to Your Question?
If you can't find the question that you'd like answering on this page, you can:
email us: Spp.Exec.Admissions@lse.ac.uk