Master of Public Administration

Ready to be a leader in a government or nonprofit agency? Our 100% Online Master of Public Administration teaches critical skills in budgeting, planning, policy formulation, public finance, personnel administration, collective bargaining, and more.

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Leading the Way in Public Administration

The University of New Haven profoundly understands how to support and grow the future leaders of governments and nonprofits. Our online Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree can position you for success while allowing you to continue to work. The master’s degree also allows you to choose a concentration or customize one to your needs.

Designed for working professionals who want to excel in a leadership role within government, nonprofit, or public service, our Master of Public Administration program focuses on exploring and addressing the challenges faced in the growth and support of the public sector. Course outcomes include management, how to set a budget, and creating a strategic direction for your department, organization, or city.

This exciting 36-credit hour degree is rooted in practical, hands-on education through class projects, teamwork, research, and discussions.

Completing your Master of Public Administration won’t interfere with your busy schedule as our online courses are offered year-round, so you can finish your masters in as little as 18 months without even setting foot on campus.

100% online. Classes are entirely on your schedule, with most courses offered in our standard 6 to 7.5-week term format so that you can take one course per mini-term for maximum work-life balance; however, some courses are only available in the 15-week, or full-term, format.

MPA Program Quick Facts

Program Format: 100% online

Time to Complete: As little as 18 months

Total Credits: 36

Test Optional: No GRE or GMAT is required to apply

Tuition Discounts:

Learn From Professors Who Are Dedicated to Your Success

Our faculty are leaders and innovators in their fields, bringing both deep professional experience and academic rigor to the classroom.

MPA Concetrations and Courses

Our Master of Public Administration program integrates diverse academic perspectives to provide a comprehensive and professional understanding of the field. What you learn in the virtual classroom will be brought to life by combining theory with real-world applications. In addition, you will engage in a dynamic learning community with your instructors and fellow students through active discussions and carefully developed exercises.

To complete the program, students must complete the required courses and an additional nine elective courses; generally, students will select from one of the below concentrations. Students can elect to complete the degree without a concentration area, in which case, they may choose, in consultation with their advisor, three additional elective courses.

The information below comes directly from the latest Academic Catalog:

Graduate Certificates and Micro-credentials

Not ready for a full graduate degree? Looking to add-on to your MPA experience? Check out these options:

The University of New Haven’s School Financial Management and Operations micro-credential program provides instruction in key areas required for School Business Officials (SBOs) and Certified Administrators of School Finance and Operations (SFOs).

Micro-credential Webpage

Nationally Recognized Center for Career Development

All University of New Haven students have access to the many resources available through the University’s Career Development Center, which has been named one of the best in the nation by The Princeton Review.

From career assessments, networking, and job shadowing to on-campus interviews and salary negotiation, the Career Development Center provides the skills and connections to identify a meaningful career and an opportunity to pursue your passion.

Learn More

Public Administration Resources

Our program can provide opportunities to partner with many public administration associations. Many such organizations have state/local chapters that students may engage with by becoming student members or attending seminars and conferences. Some associations in which you can be affiliated include:

  • Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO)
  • American Society for Public Administration (ASPA)
  • Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management (APPAM)
  • International City/County Management Association (ICMA)
  • Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA)
  • American Political Science Association (APSA)

Public Administration Opportunities for Undergraduate Students

The information below comes directly from the latest Academic Catalog:

The Public Administration Minor introduces students to the fundamental components of public organizations, how they differ from private organizations, and the value they hold in our society. The courses will cover key areas such as budgeting, policy, and human resource management.

Our Dual Degree combination of Criminal Justice + MPA allows students to obtain leadership positions in local, state, and federal departments who oversee public safety. Students will be able to combine and enhance law enforcement administration skills including public finance, public policy, political economy, personnel and collective bargaining, and administrative behavior.

The Master of Public Administration provides students with the core skills and knowledge necessary to be successful professionals in public service. Courses in policy, management, leadership, and budgeting establish a strong foundation for those seeking leadership positions.

Available for all concentrations.

Dual Degree Webpage

Studying political science can open up a wide range of job opportunities in government, business, the nonprofit sector, the legal system, human services departments, and non-profit institutes. 

The Master of Public Administration enhances a political science education by helping students develop the specific skills required by leaders for meeting the challenges faced by public and nonprofit organizations. Courses in policy, management, leadership, and budgeting establish a strong foundation for those seeking leadership positions. Build specific skill sets to lead to successful careers in Public Safety, Public Financial Management, Nonprofit Management, Municipal Management, and the Fire & Medical Services.

Dual Degree Webpage


Nationally Recognized Excellence

     

Next Steps

An advanced degree from the University of New Haven will help you take your career to the next level. Each program offers convenient scheduling, personalized attention, and state-of-the-art facilities.

View Application Requirements

The University of New Haven Graduate School is an excellent value with reasonable tuition. Of course, you will still have bills to pay and the Financial Aid office can help.

Financial Aid Website

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