Program Overview

Master of Public Administration

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program is located within the Department of Government in the College of Arts and Sciences on the main campus of New Mexico State University. The MPA degree addresses the specific needs of those pursuing a career in governmental or non-profit administration, and provides preparation for those interested in doctoral level study. With most courses offered in the evenings, the program is designed for both individuals who recently completed undergraduate degrees and returning students. It is structured to foster public service leadership by teaching students how to confront theory with practice and practice with theory.

The MPA is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA), a distinction enjoyed by only about one-fourth of all Master's programs in public administration in the United States.

Program Structure

The MPA is a two-year professional degree. All MPA students complete a common set of six core courses in public management and policy. A minimum of 42 credit hours, which includes either an internship or thesis, and a final oral examination, are required for the MPA. The program is designed in such a way that full-time students who enter in the fall semester can receive their degree in two years or five semesters.

Faculty and Curriculum

The MPA faculty brings a variety of perspectives to the program and endeavors to share the latest scholarship and the most pressing issues with students through courses and projects. The faculty encourages MPA students to think critically and creatively in addressing public concerns and problems. Case studies and practical exercises provide students opportunities to apply and revise knowledge developed by others. The small size of the program encourages close interaction among MPA students and between faculty and students.

Joint Degree Programs

The MPA program also offers joint degrees with the Department of Criminal Justice and the Department of History.

Admission Requirements

• Prospective students are encouraged to review the program requirements in the NMSU Graduate Catalog.
• Applications are accepted for fall and spring admission, with priority deadlines of March 1st for fall admission and October 1st for spring admission.

Master's Accelerated Program (MAP)

The Master's Accelerated Program (MAP) provides the opportunity for qualified undergraduate students to begin taking graduate-level courses in their junior or senior years. Eligible students can "double count" up to 12 graduate-level credits by applying them to their undergraduate degree and the Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree. This allows students to complete their graduate degree in a much shorter period of time. Students also benefit by making progress towards a graduate degree while paying undergraduate tuition rates.

Graduation Rates

The MPA program tracks graduation rates for its students. The program defines its length as 5 semesters or 2.5 years of full-time study, with the completion of a minimum of 42 credit hours required. Graduation rates are reported for students who graduate within the program design length, as well as for those who take longer to complete their degree.

Job Placement Statistics

The MPA program also tracks job placement statistics for its graduates. These statistics reflect the numbers of students who were employed in the "profession" within six months of graduation, categorized by employment sector.

Internships

The MPA program offers internship opportunities for its students. Recent internships have been available with various government agencies and non-profit organizations.

Program Outcomes

The MPA program is designed to prepare students for careers in public administration, with a focus on developing leadership and management skills. The program's curriculum and faculty are geared towards helping students achieve their career goals, whether in government, non-profit, or private sector organizations.