Launched in 2020, the Data, Economics, and Design of Policy (DEDP) master’s program at MIT is the pioneering example for ADEPT partnerships. As the first master’s degree offered by MIT’s Department of Economics and the Institute’s first program delivered exclusively in a blended format, the program combines rigorous online MicroMasters coursework with an intensive eight-month residential experience on campus. Each year, the program trains a diverse cohort of approximately 20 students from around the world.

The DEDP program uses an inverted admissions model: only learners who complete the DEDP MicroMasters credential are eligible to apply. Admissions decisions are based primarily on academic performance in the online courses, with no requirement for prior degrees or standardized tests such as the GRE or GMAT. This approach has created a new pathway to graduate education for learners from non-traditional backgrounds. To date, the program has graduated over 100 students from 44 countries—84% of whom are international students, and more than half from low- or middle-income countries.

Graduates go on to meaningful careers and further study. Around 75% work with NGOs, multilateral organizations, or government agencies, while 21% pursue PhDs or research roles. Alumni have continued their studies at institutions including MIT, Harvard, Stanford, Oxford, and Princeton.

As the flagship model for ADEPT, MIT’s DEDP program offers a compelling proof of concept: globally informed, scalable, and rooted in open-access learning. ADEPT builds on this foundation to expand access to high-quality education and equip more learners worldwide with the skills to advance evidence-informed policy and development.

A prestigious institution with a strong tradition of public service, Princeton University’s School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) shares ADEPT’s commitment to attracting and training future changemakers who drive impact in their communities. Princeton SPIA also has a long-standing commitment to removing financial barriers to its programs, with all admitted graduate students—MPA, MPP, and PhD—receiving full funding for the duration of their program. No additional essay or separate application is required to receive the funding, which includes tuition, fees, and a generous living stipend. 

Princeton SPIA graduate programs hence hold particular promise for DEDP learners from nontraditional or disadvantaged backgrounds, or from universities that may be less familiar to Princeton SPIA’s admissions committees. The university joined ADEPT as a founding member in 2025, and beginning with the fall 2025 application cycle, will consider the DEDP MicroMasters credential in the admissions process for its Master in Public Affairs and Master in Public Policy programs. While the credential is not required for admission, applicants who include it will have it recognized by the admissions committee as strong preparation for advanced quantitative study.

For admitted students, the DEDP MicroMasters coursework in economics, data analysis, and policy design provides a solid foundation for Princeton SPIA’s rigorous curriculum. While Princeton does not award credit for coursework at other institutions, advanced training—such as that offered through the DEDP MicroMasters program—may allow students to test into higher-level courses. This flexibility enables students to focus on electives and tailor their experience, while still fulfilling Princeton SPIA’s degree credit requirements.