Public Administration

What is Public Administration?

Public administration is a field for those invested in serving their community, advancing the common good, and effecting positive change through administrative service. Professionals in the field operate in all levels of government (local, state, federal), non-profit organizations, public interest groups, and international organization - to mention a few.

Our department offers two options for studying Public Administration: the Master of Public Administration (MPA) and the Graduate Certificate in Public Administration (CPADMC) program. Depending on an individual's schedule, along with their academic or career goals, they may prefer one of the following:

Master of Public Administration (MPA)

The Masters of Public Administration (MPA) is a flexible degree program designed for those who wish to hold professional positions in the wide range of administrative environments. Students receive a broad exposure to policy systems, political environments, administrative principals and research methods.

The program requires 36 credit hours for in-service (employed) students and 37 credit hours for pre-service students. Completion of the program usually takes five semesters (2^1/2 years) of full-time study. Students studying part time are strongly advised to complete the program in six semesters (3 years).

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Graduate Certificate in Public Administration (CPADMC)

The Graduate Certificate in Public Administration (CPAMDC) enhances the credentials of graduate students as well as the professional stature of working professionals seeking to suppliment their careers, whether it be in the public, private or non-profit sector. Students receive future focused training, gaining knowledge in budgeting, management, organization, and leadership - all of which any administrator needs to master and use.

The program requires 15 credit hours; 12 credit hours from core courses and 3 credit hours from electives. Due to the amount of credit hours, students can complete the certificate in one year - if desired.

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The program boasts professional, award-winning faculty that publish in the most acclaimed journals of their field. Headed by the Director of Public Administration, Dr. Ethan Bernick, our faculty instill in our students the ethics of public service and professional management that are critical to the diverse and changing modern workplace.