Public Affairs (M.P.A.)

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. At least 3 electives must be taken from MPA program offerings (Designated PA in the catalog). Each semester the MPA Director will create a list of pre-approved courses outside of the department from which students may choose. Any non-approved elective courses (at WCU or another university) must be approved by the MPA committee. Students must fill out an “elective request form” (found on the MPA web page or may request it from the MPA Director). Pre-service students must complete 3 hours of internship (PA 685) in place of three of the 15 elective hours.

Public Affairs Core (24 hours)

PA 669 - Legal Issues in Public Affairs Credits: 3
PA 670 - Public Affairs Administration Credits: 3
PA 671 - Public Financial Management Credits: 3
PA 672 - Public Organizational Theory Credits: 3
PA 673 - Public Policy Analysis Credits: 3
PA 674 - Research Methods for Public Affairs Credits: 3
PA 699 - Public Affairs Capstone Experience Credits: 3
PA 677 - Public Personnel Management Credits: 3

Requirements

Students without public service experience will be required to complete a 3 hour internship (PA 685) and submit an internship report based on faculty guidelines. Students with public service experience will be required to take an additional 3 hours of coursework selected from program electives and professional electives instead of an internship.