The creation of the John W. McCormack Graduate School of Policy Studies at the University of Massachusetts Boston in August 2003 recognizes the University's existing strengths in policy studies and is a reflection of the campus' desire to build that strength into a true "signature" area of excellence.

Offering a broad range of graduate degrees in public policy, public affairs, and gerontology, the School teaches students to think and work across traditional boundaries, particularly at the intersection of the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. Existing research centers within the Graduate School focus on State and Local Policy, Social Policy, Women in Politics and Public Policy, Gerontology, Media and Society and Democracy and Development.

Boston Globe Article By Dean Crosby - A Passport To Higher Ed