Is ISPP more research-focused or more corporate-oriented?
The academic design of the programme focuses on economics, statistics, research methods, and policy analysis, which are essential tools for careers in think tanks and research organisations. This is reflected in the academic structure of the programme.
At the same time, ISPP emphasises applying research to real policy challenges. Through experiential learning initiatives and policy projects, students learn how research translates into governance and institutional decisions. These initiatives are supported through platforms like the research ecosystem at ISPP.
Career preparation further confirms this positioning. ISPP supports pathways into think tanks, government advisory roles, development organisations, and consulting through its structured career support framework.
The intellectual strength of the school also comes from its faculty, which includes economists, policy researchers, and senior practitioners. You can explore the ISPP faculty here:
So, ISPP sits between two worlds:
- More research-focused than corporate programmes
- More application-driven than purely academic degrees
In short, research is the foundation, and policy impact is the goal.

