Students entering the MPA Program in Fall 2010 and forward will follow the curriculum outlined below.
Students who entered the program before Fall 2010 with expected graduation dates after Fall 2010 will work closely with faculty advisors and follow individualized programs of study.
New Curriculum (students entering the MPA Program 2010 and forward)
Old Curriculum(students who entered the program prior to Fall 2010)
The MPA Program is a 42 credit hour program, comprised of: 1) a core of seven courses (25 credits) where students are introduced to the knowledge and skills they need for professional public service; 2) a three-course (9 credits) specialization or set of electives; 3) two courses (3 credits) to practice application of learning; and 4) a culminating experience consisting of two courses (5 credits) to demonstrate competencies.
1. Research Design & Methods (4 credits)
2. Foundations of Public Service (4 credits)
3. 21st Century Governance (4 credits)
4. Budgeting & Financial Management (4 credits)
5. Evidence-Based Decision Making (4 credits): Students can fulfill this requirement with one of several courses including Policy Analysis, Program Evaluation, Survey Research, and Performance Analysis.
6. Managing People in Organizations (3 credits): Students can fulfill this requirement with one of several courses including Human Resource Management, Organization Theory, Organization Behavior, and Managing Networks.
7. Managing Information and Technology (2 credits):
Two specializations are available within the Department of Public Administration:
The Department also has relationships with the School of Nursing for students interested in Health Policy Administration, and with Geography for students interested in Environmental Policy. Dual degree students complete specialization/elective courses in the discipline of their other degree.
Students should maintain close contact with Faculty Advisors, to ensure proper progress towards degree completion.
