Engineering and Public Policy graduate programs

Inspire solutions

Carnegie Mellon’s Department of Engineering and Public Policy (EPP) offers both a master’s and Ph.D. program, preparing future problem solvers through knowledge in science, technology, economics, and social analysis. The department’s unique programs enable students to build the skills necessary to address policy issues across a wide array of diverse domains.

Application periods

Fall
- Ph.D. - October 15th through December 15th
- Master’s - October 15th through December 31st

Students walk across CMU's campus on their way to their presentation

Doctor of philosophy degree program

Ph.D. in Engineering and Public Policy
The Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering and Public Policy program enables students with technical backgrounds to address policy issues focused on science and technology. With research thrusts in energy systems, climate and environment, risk analysis, information and communication technology, and technology innovation policy, Ph.D. students can choose to focus on an area that meets their career goals.

Master’s degree program

Master of Science in Engineering and Public Policy
The Master of Science in Engineering and Public Policy is designed for students with various technical backgrounds. Through coursework, optional research, and project work, students build the skills to address policy issues in which scientific and technical details matter.
Master of Science in Engineering and Technology Innovation Management
The Master of Science in Engineering and Technology Innovation Management program aims to nurture the future generation of leaders in innovation. This program equips engineers and scientists with specialized business skills, frameworks, and technical expertise required to create and capture value from innovative technologies.

Research areas

Energy systems

Climate and environment

Risk analysis

Information and communication technology

Technology innovation policy

Overhead shot of students lined up in the shape of CMU

Student experience

Engineering and Public Policy graduate students become integral members of a worldwide community of scholars and researchers, cultivating an environment rich in diversity and collaborative spirit. Students are encouraged to actively participate in Carnegie Mellon’s student organizations, which offer valuable opportunities to augment their professional and technical skills.

Related organizations

Engineering and Public Policy research

News

Nov 26

News & Events

EPP research will help workers navigate evolving technology

A regional team led by EPP researchers has received ARISE funding to analyze the workforce of North and North-Central Appalachia and develop tools to match workers’ skills with evolving industry needs.

When faculty and students in the College of Engineering create intellectual property, our culture supports their efforts to form startups.

Engineering entrepreneurs find their way

Oct 25

Energy & Environment

Hubs: A step towards a hydrogen future?

Hydrogen is sometimes considered a secret ingredient in the recipe for a net-zero future. As a team of Carnegie Mellon researchers points out, hydrogen offers many advantages, but it’s not a panacea.

Research paper

Oct 7

Energy & Environment

US industrial policy may strengthen EV battery supply chain

The Inflation Reduction Act offers incentives for diversifying the EV battery supply chain and reducing US dependence on China, but the potential impact of loopholes remains to be seen.

Sep 30

News & Events

Ride-hailing apps mitigate impact of racial discrimination

Uber and Lyft are dramatically reducing wait-time disparities for Black riders, but the impact of systemic segregation persists.

Aug 15

News & Events

Jaramillo completes ELATES, accepted into AAAS fellowship

EPP Professor Paulina Jaramillo is honing her policy outreach skills by participating in prestigious fellowship programs.

Jul 23

News & Events

Jaramillo completes ELATES program, accepted into AAAS fellowship

Engineering and Public Policy Professor Paulina Jaramillo completed the ELATES at Drexel fellowship—a national leadership development program for women in STEM fields in academia.

Nicolas Christin has been appointed as the next department head of S3D.

Christin appointed head of S3D

Jun 23

News & Events

Carnegie Mellon professor launches ESG index

Nicholas Muller created the ESG Index to serve as a credible, reliable source for accurate data on national trends in monetary pollution damage.

Jun 13

News & Events

Engineering students awarded Fulbright Scholarships

Six students and alumni from the College of Engineering will research and study abroad on Fulbright program scholarships.

Jun 7

News & Events

Hanig receives Rath Award

Lily Hanig was the 2024 recipient of the Bhakta and Sushama Rath Graduate Award for her research in the equity and sustainability impacts of U.S. transportation disruptions.

May 23

News & Events

Building an equitable, inclusive and prosperous future

A commitment to the pursuit of economic justice, and thereby to a sustainable future, is reflected in Carnegie Mellon University’s research, education and practice. From the classroom to the community, CMU’s students, faculty and staff are partnering to help economies thrive while fostering a healthy environment.

The pandemic altered how individuals consumed energy in their homes, and in some areas the changes adversely affected energy poverty.

Comfort vs. cash: energy behavior changes during COVID-19

Apr 19

Energy & Environment

Charged to make change

Hannah Morin, a dual Ph.D. major in materials science and engineering and engineering and public policy, began her tenure in GSA as a representative in the assembly for EPP, and has since progressed to vice president of campus affairs, and has now been president of the organization since December 2022.

Apr 15

News & Events

Inaugural alumni awards celebrate success and service

On April 11, distinguished guests from across the university and alumni communities, gathered in Scaife Hall to honor eight individuals whose leadership, creativity, and volunteerism underscore what can be achieved with an engineering degree from Carnegie Mellon University.

Apr 10

COVID-19

Infrastructure as a social sensor

A recent study examines the relationship between having access to broadband internet and unemployment during the pandemic, treating infrastructure as a proxy for bias rather than access.

Mar 20

News & Events

Honoring the memory of Jerry Cohon

Heartfelt messages, memories, and reflections have flooded the halls of Carnegie Mellon as many mourn and honor the memory of Jerry Cohon, a profound and enduring figure at the university and beyond.

Mar 19

Energy & Environment

Anticipating and reducing EV battery supply disruptions

A recent study analyzes the relationship between EV battery chemistry and supply chain vulnerability for four critical minerals across particular countries that are key contributors to production.