The Murphy Institute
Understanding and analyzing the economic, moral, and political problems of our time
Established in memory of Charles H. Murphy, Sr. (1870-1954), and inspired by the vision of Charles H. Murphy, Jr. (1920-2002), The Murphy Institute exists to help Tulane faculty and students understand economic, moral, and political problems we all face and think about. More importantly, it exists to help us understand how these problems have come to be so closely interconnected.
Murphy-Tulane Research Symposium "AI: From Code to Consequences"
This two-day symposium brings together researchers, policymakers, legal experts, and practitioners from across the country to examine artificial intelligence and its implications across society, law, science, and policy.
Friday, April 17-Saturday, April 18, 2026
Free and open to the public
Master of Arts in Political Economy: Apply by April 1
Tulane University’s Master of Arts program in Political Economy with Data Analytics (MA-PEDA) provides students the opportunity to develop quantitative skills while examining interactions between economics and politics with the flexibility to take courses in a wide range of schools and academic departments.
The program is designed to be completed in three semesters. All applicants are considered for $10K recruitment awards (awarded to top 3 applicants; paid equally across three semesters).
We welcome students from diverse backgrounds, particularly those interested in political economy, economics, political science, sociology, and philosophy.
The deadline to apply is April 1, 2026.
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Centers & Academic Programs
The Murphy Institute is a one-of-a-kind intellectual center – not just for Tulane, but for the nation. No other institution in the country provides an undergraduate education focused on political and economic dynamics, fosters ethical reflection on social values, promotes research and outreach on public policy, and supports pathbreaking legal scholarship.
Coordinates research and discussion of ethics and public affairs for faculty and graduate students
A multi-disciplinary research center that balances academic research with applied work
Promotes research and collaboration on issues in developed and developing economies
Undergraduate Program in Political Economy
This major promotes reflection on the connections between political and economic activities and institutions. Our approach develops complementary strengths in multiple areas.
Master of Arts in Political Economy with Data Analytics
This program provides a multidisciplinary education around political economy themes and the data analytics tools and approaches necessary to apply that knowledge in academic work, government, and industry.
THE EXCHANGE: A New Campus Home and a New Chapter
The newest edition of THE EXCHANGE, The Murphy Institute's annual publication featuring news and highlights from Murphy events, programming, and new initiatives, is here!
Read about our continued efforts to expand our presence and impact on campus, in the broader community and across the globe.