Master of Public Administration
ADMISSIONS
MPA applications are accepted for Fall and Spring enrollment.
FALL DEADLINES
March 15th - Priority deadline for all applicants seeking departmental financial aid
June 1st - International applicants
July 1st - Domestic applicants
SPRING DEADLINES
October 15th - International applicants
December 1st - Domestic applicants
For information regarding financial aid, please visit: financialaid.arizona.edu/typesof-aid/graduate
APPLICATION MATERIALS
Online Application plus application fee.
Unofficial transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate coursework.
Statement of Purpose, including information about experiences and career objectives.
Supplemental Questions, including a resume describing relevant experiences, responsibilities, and achievements.
Two letters of recommendation (at least one academic) from persons able to provide verification and a specific assessment of your professional and/or academic performance and capabilities.
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) prepares individuals looking for challenging and rewarding careers in the changing public and non-profit arenas. The MPA program combines curricular coursework with real-world opportunities which fosters the leadership skills needed to meet today’s greater demands in accountability and effectiveness from public and nonprofit organizations. We offer evening classes for students who work full-time during the day. This provides students the ability to further their capacity to serve their communities while earning their MPA in as little as two years!
CURRICULUM
• 24 units of core coursework
• 12 units of elective coursework
• 3 units of internship
• 3 units of capstone
CONCENTRATIONS
Students may specialize in the following concentration areas, which include:
• Collaborative Governance
• Environmental Management & Policy
• Nonprofit Management
• Public Management/Local Government
DUAL DEGREES
The MPA program participates in dual degree programs that uniquely prepare graduates for positions in a variety of public and non-profit organizations:
• Juris Doctor
• MA in Journalism
• MA in Latin American Studies
• MA in Middle Eastern & North African Studies
• MS in Water, Society & Policy
For additional program information please contact: SBS-sgppmasters@arizona.edu
PROGRAM MISSION
The mission of our program is to prepare a diverse group of graduate students, including public and nonprofit professionals and pre-service students, to effectively manage, govern and lead as dedicated public servants working in local, state, and federal government and non-profit organizations. We equip our students with essential skills in analysis, communication, and management. Our faculty and curriculum model public service values such as civility, ethics, and accountability, and emphasizes leadership skills that include a commitment to diversity and social justice. We accomplish our program mission by advancing the knowledge of public policy and management through dedicated teaching, research, and public service.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Non-profits, government agencies, and public institutions are looking for employees that are equipped with the necessary leadership skills to help their organizations thrive. We are dedicated to ensuring students receive hands-on career training throughout their program of study, which includes an internship and capstone project that allows for a complete integration of academic and career experience.