Public Affairs (M.P.A.)

Program Admission Requirements

In addition to the Graduate School Admission Requirements , applicants should have a B average in their last two years of undergraduate study and must obtain a satisfactory score on the Graduate Record Exam General Test. In addition, all applicants must submit an up-to-date resume and must submit a 1-2 page essay that addresses the following question: “Why do you want to pursue an MPA and a career in public service? In your answer, be sure to discuss how your job, educational and life experiences relate to this goal.” Prerequisite work may be required of applicants having an inadequate background for the MPA.

Program Description

The Master of Public Affairs degree program is designed for students who possess professional experience and seek additional education to prepare for career advancement (in-service students) and also for students planning careers in the public service area (preservice students). The program requires each student to complete the Public Affairs core requirements (24 hours), and 15 hours of guided electives for in-service students or 12 hours of guided electives and 3 hours of internship (PA 685) for preservice students.