Program Overview

Master of Public Administration

The master of public administration degree (MPA) is the recognized professional degree in public administration, public management, and public service. GW's MPA is designed principally, but not exclusively, for those who are pursuing careers in public service. Graduates are employed in government agencies at all levels, national associations, public interest groups, research and consulting firms, and in the private sector.

The MPA degree program provides an opportunity to study management and policy issues in an intergovernmental and intersectoral context. The program focuses on developing critical intellectual capacities, sound analytical skills, and a sensitivity to the ethical and value concerns that are central to the traditions of the field of public administration.

Overview of the Program

• The MPA program is designed for individuals pursuing careers in public service.
• Graduates are employed in various sectors, including government agencies, national associations, and private firms.
• The program focuses on developing critical intellectual capacities, analytical skills, and sensitivity to ethical concerns.

Admissions

Admission Requirements

• Admission deadlines:
  • Fall - April 1 (February 1 for priority fellowship consideration)
  • Spring - October 1
  • Late applications accepted on a case-by-case basis for students who do not require an F-1 or J-1 visa
• Standardized test scores:
  • The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the academic International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the PTE Academic is required of all applicants except those who hold a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from a college or university in the United States or from an institution located in a country in which English is the official language, provided English was the language of instruction.
  • Minimum scores for the M.P.A. program are:
    • Academic IELTS: an overall band score of 7.0 with no individual score below 6.0
    • TOEFL: 600 on paper-based or 100 on Internet-based
• Recommendations required: Two (2) recommendations
• Prior academic records:
  • Transcripts are required from all colleges and universities attended, whether or not credit was earned, the program was completed, or the credit appears as transfer credit on another transcript.
  • Unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities attended must be uploaded to your online application.
  • Official transcripts are required only of applicants who are offered admission.
  • If transcripts are in a language other than English, English language translations must be provided.
• Statement of purpose:
  • In an essay of 250 – 500 words, state your purpose in undertaking graduate study in your chosen field.
  • Include your academic objectives, research interests, and career plans.
  • Also discuss your related qualifications, including collegiate, professional, and community activities, and any other substantial accomplishments not already mentioned on your application.

Requirements

Program Requirements

The following requirements must be fulfilled:

• The general requirements stated under Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Graduate Programs.
• 40 credits, including:
  • 25 credits in required courses
  • At least 9 credits in a selected policy field
  • At least 3 credits in elective courses

Course List

• Required:
  • PPPA 6000: Perspectives on Public Values
  • PPPA 6001: Introduction to Public Service and Administration
  • PPPA 6002: Research Methods and Applied Statistics
  • PPPA 6003: Economics for Public Decision Making
  • PPPA 6004: Managing Public Organizations
  • PPPA 6005: Public Budgeting, Revenue, and Expenditure Analysis
  • PPPA 6006: Policy Analysis
  • PPPA 6008: MPA/MPP Capstone *
  • PPPA 6016: Public and Nonprofit Program Evaluation
• Policy field:
  • At least 9 credits in courses in a selected policy field.
• Electives:
  • At least 3 credits in elective courses

*Students completing their degree program at the end of the fall semester take PPPA 6008.

Combined Programs

Dual and Joint Programs

• Dual Master of Public Administration and Graduate Certificate in budget and public finance
• Dual Master of Public Administration and Graduate Certificate in nonprofit management
• Joint Master of Public Administration and Juris Doctor

Students in the MPA program may wish to explore opportunities to combine the master's with graduate certificates in budget and public finance and nonprofit management.