Program Overview

Master of Public Administration

Introduction

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program is designed for mid-career managers who work in local governments. The program is nationally recognized and can be taken 100% online, led by award-winning faculty members.

Program Details

The program provides the skills required to be an effective, ethical leader in local government organizations. Graduates hold management positions in areas such as:

• Public safety
• Public works
• Finance
• Budgeting
• Parks and recreation
• City manager's office

Specializations

The program offers two specializations:

• Local Government Management
• Strategic Public Management and Leadership

Program Structure

The program consists of 13 courses (39 credit hours) and can be completed in less than three years by taking two courses each semester as a part-time student.

Accreditation

The NIU MPA program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA).

Rankings

The program has been ranked by U.S. News & World Report as:

• No. 6 in the nation in the specialty field of local government management
• No. 25 in the field of public finance and budgeting
• No. 40 in public management and leadership
• No. 58 in the nation out of more than 300 university programs

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program have gone on to hold key positions such as:

• City/Village Manager
• Police Chief
• Fire Chief
• Public Works Director
• Park District Director
• Economic Development Director
• Community Development Director

Frequently Asked Questions

Program Duration

The online MPA requires 39 credits to complete, with courses typically taken one at a time. Most students complete the program in just under three years.

Admission Requirements

To qualify for the program, students must have at least two years of professionally related experience, such as public service, preferably working in local government.

Tuition Fees

The cost per credit for the program is $585.72, with the full program costing around $23,428, excluding any additional costs or fees. Each individual course costs $1,757.