Program Overview

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Program Overview: Master of Public Administration Online

Pursuing a Master of Public Administration (MPA) online at KU is a great way to enhance your career and earning potential. Our MPA program instills in students the interdisciplinary knowledge and skills to lead public and nonprofit organizations. Students study contemporary social issues while learning to foster and model public service values — including social equity, sustainability, transparency, accountability, and respect for democracy.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for social and community service managers is projected to grow 9% from 2022 to 2032. Our program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA). The curriculum allows students to specialize in city and county management and public
onprofit management. By the end of your coursework, you will learn to lead and manage in public governance; participate in and contribute to the public policy process; analyze, synthesize, think creatively, and make decisions; articulate and apply public service perspectives; and communicate and interact productively with a diverse and changing workforce and citizenry.

Program Details

• Duration: 2-3.5 years to complete a full degree
• Format: 100% online
• Accreditation: Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA)
• Specializations: City and county management, public
  onprofit management

Careers with a Master of Public Administration

Our award-winning faculty equips you with a variety of public administration experiences. Our graduates have served the community in positions that include:

• City and county managers
• Foundation CEOs
• Budget and data analysts
• White House fellows
• State department diplomats
• Law enforcement and military officers

Graduate Certificates

Graduate certificates are also available and taught by the same award-winning faculty as the MPA program. These certificates allow students to broaden their knowledge in a specific area of their choice to learn the most up-to-date theory and techniques used in practice. These certificate programs are a great way for public administration professionals to enhance their skills on their way to earning a full MPA degree. Graduate certificate options include:

• City and County Management
• Public/Nonprofit Management

Why Get a Master of Public Administration Degree Online from KU?

This program offers unmatched opportunities and flexibility. In an average of two years (full-time) to three and a half years (part-time), you could earn an online MPA designed for working professionals who seek to advance their careers and develop specialized skills focusing on a commitment to public service. The coursework emphasizes real-world application, earning you practical experience that won’t just add to your resume, but strengthen it.

KU is a globally recognized institution and one of just 38 public universities in the Association of American Universities, a group of America’s leading research universities. An online master’s in public administration from KU signals prestige, quality, and career readiness.

Program Costs

• Tuition: $595 per credit hour (pending approval by the Kansas Board of Regents)

Admission

Degree-seeking students must follow the admission process of their program. For details and steps to apply, please refer to the program's admission guidelines.

Curriculum

The curriculum for the online Master of Public Administration program includes a combination of core courses and specialization courses. For a full list of courses, please refer to the program's curriculum outline.

Frequently Asked Questions

When Should I Apply?

• Application deadlines are July 1 for the fall semester and Dec. 1 for the spring semester.

How Long Will It Take to Complete the Degree?

• Students typically complete this degree in two years of full-time study or three and a half years of part-time study.

Is the Degree Completely Remote?

• Yes, the online master’s is offered fully remote.