Public Administration - M.P.A.

Program Overview

Kent State University's Master of Public Administration (MPA) program prepares students for leadership roles in public and nonprofit organizations. Delivered fully online, the program provides a comprehensive foundation in public administration, covering topics such as administrative theory, financial management, and program evaluation. Graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to advance their careers in public service.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at Kent State University is designed for students who aspire to become policy analysts, managers, and executives within public and nonprofit organizations. The program aims to equip students with a comprehensive foundation in public and nonprofit management, encompassing various aspects such as:

• Scope and History of Public Administration: Understanding the evolution and current landscape of public administration.
• Administrative Theory: Exploring theoretical frameworks and principles guiding public administration practices.
• Ethical Behavior in Public Management: Developing a strong ethical compass for navigating complex public service scenarios.
• Public Financial Management: Mastering the principles and practices of managing public finances effectively.
• Program Evaluation: Acquiring the skills to assess the effectiveness and impact of public programs.
• Methods in Public Administration: Learning and applying various research methods relevant to public administration.
• Personnel Management: Understanding the principles and practices of managing public sector employees.
The MPA program is structured to be completed within two years by taking two courses per term, including summer sessions. Courses are delivered in an asynchronous online format, utilizing a mix of web-based instruction, audio, and video technologies, allowing students to learn from the comfort of their homes.

Outline:

Program Requirements:

• Major Requirements:
• PADM 60379 PROGRAM EVALUATION I:
3 credit hours
• Minimum Total Credit Hours: 36-39 credit hours

Roadmap:

The program provides a recommended semester-by-semester plan of study, with critical courses designated as "!" to ensure timely graduation.

First Year:

• Fall Semester:
• PADM 60371 GRADUATE INTRODUCTION TO PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION (3 credit hours)
• PADM 60381 METHODS IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION (3 credit hours)
• Spring Semester:
• PADM 60375 PUBLIC PERSONNEL ADMINISTRATION (3 credit hours)
• Summer Term:
• Major Elective (3 credit hours)
• Major Elective (3 credit hours)

Second Year:

• Fall Semester:
• Major Elective (3 credit hours)
• Spring Semester:
• PADM 60379 PROGRAM EVALUATION I (3 credit hours)
• Major Elective (3 credit hours)
• Summer Term:
• PADM 60392 INTERNSHIP IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION (0-3 credit hours)
• Major Elective (3 credit hours)

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program utilizes a mix of web-based instruction, audio, and video technologies for asynchronous online learning.
• Faculty: The program is taught by experienced faculty members with expertise in public administration.
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes a public service perspective and prepares students for leadership roles in public service.

Careers:

The MPA program prepares graduates for a variety of career paths in public and nonprofit organizations, including:

• Chief Executives: Leading and managing public and nonprofit organizations.
• General and Operations Managers: Overseeing the day-to-day operations of public and nonprofit organizations.
• Legislators: Developing and enacting public policy.
• Postmasters and Mail Superintendents: Managing postal services.
• Social and Community Service Managers: Planning, directing, and coordinating social and community service programs.
• Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers: Managing transportation, storage, and distribution operations.

Other:

• Program Delivery: Fully online
• Contact Information:
• Examples of Possible Careers and Salaries: The program provides examples of potential career paths and salary information based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook.