Program Overview

MPA Program Admissions

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at San Francisco State University is a graduate degree program that prepares students for careers in public administration.

Admissions Information

To be eligible for admission to the MPA program, students must meet the university's requirements and the program's specific requirements.

General Requirements for Admission

The minimum requirements for admission to graduate study in the California State University are:

1. Hold a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution, or have completed equivalent academic preparation as determined by the appropriate campus authority.
2. Be in good academic standing at the last college or university attended.
3. Have a 3.0 GPA in their earned undergraduate degree or in the last 60 semester (90 quarter) units completed, or have earned a post-baccalaureate degree.
4. Meet additional departmental requirements.

Requirements by the Program for Admission

To be eligible for admission to the Master of Public Administration degree program, students must:

• Have at least a 3.0 grade point average in the last 60 units of their previous coursework.
• The GRE is not required for admission.
• There is no prerequisite coursework required for admission.
• Successful candidates should have one to two years of work experience in the public or nonprofit sectors.

Application Deadlines

The application deadlines are:

• For admission to Fall: May 1, with the review of completed applications to begin on April 1.
• For admission to the Spring semester: November 1, with the review of completed applications to begin on October 1.

Application Process

To apply, students must submit the following materials:

1. Statement of purpose: A coherent essay of 3-4 pages, double-spaced, addressing the following prompts:

• Life experiences that have contributed to interest in public administration.
• Career goals and professional interests or aspirations.
• How the MPA degree will be helpful and consistent with career goals and aspirations.
• Why the SF State MPA degree program is a good fit for the student and their career/professional goals.
• Why this is the right time in the student's career to seek an MPA degree.

2. Current resume.
3. Two letters of recommendation: From individuals who know the candidate well and can address their potential for succeeding in graduate school.

Cost of Attendance

Information about the cost of attendance and financial aid is available.

Program Details

The MPA program is designed to prepare students for careers in public administration, with a focus on:

• Civic engagement
• Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging
• Public policy
• Nonprofit management
• Urban administration

Applicants must meet all University admission requirements to be accepted into the MPA program. Applicants are judged on a competitive basis. Potential applicants who are still completing their undergraduate work should strengthen their preparation for the program with courses in public administration, economics, politics, public policy, and research techniques, as well as experience working in either the public or nonprofit sectors.