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Master of Public Policy in Housing Policy

Building better housing futures

McMaster University’s Master of Public Policy in Housing Policy is a professional degree program focused on housing as one of today’s most urgent and consequential policy challenges. It prepares students to understand how housing systems work—and to develop policy responses that improve affordability, increase supply, and advance equity across diverse communities.

The MPP in Housing Policy builds on comprehensive training in public policy and governance, while bringing sustained attention to the institutions, incentives, and delivery mechanisms that shape housing outcomes—from planning and regulation to financing and intergovernmental coordination. Graduates will be equipped to work across the public, private, and non-profit sectors, drawing on theoretical knowledge, subject-matter expertise, and applied policy tools to design, implement, and evaluate viable housing solutions.

Why Choose the Master of Public Policy in Housing Policy?

Building on the success of the MPP Digital Society stream, the Housing Policy stream offers a unique curriculum with four distinct required courses. Students will engage in two new seminar courses: PUBPOL 713: Fundamentals of Housing Policy and Governance and PUBPOL 714: Cross-Sectoral Perspectives on Housing Policy. These seminars are delivered through our pioneering co-teaching model, pairing an anchor academic with a policy practitioner (the Professor of Practice), providing a rich blend of theoretical and practical insights.

In addition to the seminars, students will participate in two skills labs distinct to the Housing Stream during the Fall and Winter terms: PUBPOL 758: Stakeholder Management and PUBPOL 760: Informatics for Public Policy. These labs are designed to equip students with the practical skills needed to navigate and influence the housing policy landscape effectively.

Integrated Learning Experience

In the initial semester, all students in both the MPP Digital Society and Housing Policy streams will take a common curriculum of three seminars and three skills labs. This integrated approach fosters a collaborative learning environment, allowing students to benefit from diverse perspectives.

In the Fall and Winter terms, students will continue with a mostly common curriculum, with each stream having one unique seminar and one unique skills lab tailored to their specialization.

Core Expertise and Leadership

We train prospective policy leaders to effectively address the multifaceted challenges of the digital age. Our comprehensive curriculum ensures that you gain both the technical expertise and policy acumen needed to excel in various sectors.

Whether you aim to influence government policy, drive change in non-profit organizations, or lead initiatives in private industry and academia, our program equips you with the tools to succeed.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Housing Policy stream will be well-prepared for careers in public policy, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector roles focused on housing and urban development. They will possess the knowledge and skills to influence housing policy, advocate for affordable housing solutions, and contribute to sustainable urban planning initiatives.

The optional co-op semester, available in the Spring-Summer term following the completion of the core curriculum, provides valuable hands-on experience. This practical component allows students to apply their academic learning in real-world settings, enhancing employability and practical skills. The combination of academic rigor and practical experience ensures that graduates are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their chosen careers.

Strong Professional Development Explore Our Advisory Board

Our approach to learning includes professional development workshops that enhance your skills and prepare you for leadership roles. These workshops cover a range of essential topics, from strategic communication and project management to ethical decision-making and policy analysis.

You’ll benefit from McMaster’s strong connections with industry and community partners, providing valuable networking opportunities and real-world insights. These connections not only enrich your learning experience but also open doors to internships, collaborative projects, and potential career opportunities. By engaging with professionals and experts in the field, you’ll build a robust network that supports your career growth and development.