Master of Public Administration
Program Overview
Master of Public Administration
This graduate program teaches civic-minded students how to understand changing landscapes, make sound decisions, and communicate effectively, while providing a path toward rewarding careers overseeing nonprofits, healthcare organizations, and government agencies.
Program Details
- Program Type: Master's
- Academic Unit: Bloch School of Management
- Standard credit hours: 36
- Delivery Mode: In-person, Hybrid, Online
- Typical Program Length: 1-4 years
- Typical Course Load: 1-5 per semester
Why UMKC
- Gain the skills needed to manage public service organizations in entrepreneurial and innovative ways.
- Enhance leadership skills to advance your career in the broad field of public service.
- Learn alongside a diverse community of peers and connect to a strong alumni network.
After Graduation
In a complex and quickly changing society, nonprofit and government leaders with excellent communication skills and the ability to make sound, well-informed decisions are in high demand across a range of public service sectors.
Potential Careers
- Policy manager
- Executive director for nonprofits
- Social and community service manager
Median Salary
$77,251 per year, based on data from Lightcast.io for Social and Community Service Managers.
Potential Courses
Program Evaluation
This course provides students with the knowledge and tools necessary to evaluate and analyze public policies and programs.
Leadership, Change and Social Impact
This course teaches effective and ethical leadership, and how to understand and develop a capacity for leadership in dynamic, complex, and multi-sector environments.
The Politics of Administration
This course provides an advanced introduction to public policy and public service, teaching students how and why certain public policies are created and how they help achieve public goals.
Related Programs and Pathways
- Nonprofit Management and Innovation (Certificate)
- Urban Policy and Management (Certificate)
- Health Leadership (Certificate)
How to Apply
- Gather your materials
- Official transcripts
- Names and locations of previous college(s) and dates you attended
- Citizenship, residency, and visa information (if applicable)
- Complete the online application
- $45 for domestic graduate students or $75 for international graduate students
- Check admissions requirements
Some programs have specific admission requirements or may require minimum scores on graduate admissions tests.
Application Dates
- To Start Classes in Fall: Apply by August 1, classes begin in August
- To Start Classes in Spring: Apply by December 15, classes begin in January
- To Start Classes in Summer: Apply by May 1, classes begin in June
Financial Aid
- 80% of first-year students seeking a master's degree or graduate certificate received financial aid
- 92% of first-year students seeking a doctoral degree received financial aid
- 77% of all degree- and certificate-seeking graduate students received financial aid
This program can be completed as a standalone master’s degree or as part of a combined pathway, allowing students to earn both a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master of Public Administration in just three to four additional semesters. Students may use their electives to explore areas of interest or complete the requirements for a graduate certificate in one of several emphasis areas, benefiting from a vibrant and well-connected alumni network and gaining the skills needed to advance their careers.