Masters in Public Administration Programs in the State of North Dakota

Cole Neder

Cole Neder

Updated & Fact Checked: 08.19.2024

Introduction

When considering where to pursue an MPA degree, students should take into account the state of North Dakota, particularly the city of Grand Forks, for several reasons. Firstly, North Dakota boasts a strong economy, driven primarily by its energy, agriculture, and technology sectors. The state’s stable economy can provide MPA students with opportunities for internships, networking, and potential employment in various government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector companies.

North Dakota is known for its low cost of living. Compared to many other states, housing, transportation, and other expenses are relatively affordable in North Dakota. This can be especially appealing for graduate students who are looking to minimize their expenses and focus on their studies.

North Dakota offers a high quality of life. The state is known for its safe communities, excellent schools, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. Grand Forks, in particular, is home to the University of North Dakota, which offers a strong MPA program and a vibrant campus life.

North Dakota’s strategic location near the Canadian border and its proximity to major cities like Minneapolis and Winnipeg offer students unique opportunities for networking and professional development. The state’s central location in the United States also makes it a convenient base for exploring other parts of the country.

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  • NASPAA Accredited
  • No GRE Required
  • 100% Online
  • Scholarships Available

American University

Online Master’s in Public Administration and Policy


American University’s nationally recognized and NASPAA-accredited master’s in public administration provides students with a master’s-level understanding of modern governance from an award-winning faculty working and teaching in the heart of government, Washington, D.C.

  • Fully Online or Hybrid
  • Top Ranked
  • No GRE/GMAT

Ohio University

Online & Hybrid Master of Public Administration Degrees


Ohio University’s MPA programs equip graduates for leadership roles in government, nonprofit organizations, and the public sector. Concentrations include:

  • No GRE/GMAT Required
  • 100% Online
  • HLC Accredited

Walden University

Online Public Policy and Administration Programs


Walden University’s Public Administration programs are taught by a distinguished faculty of scholar-practitioners, many of whom have senior-executive experience in government and public service. Programs include:

  • No GRE/GMAT Required
  • Top Ranked
  • Built for Leaders

Arizona State University

Online Master of Public Administration (MPA)


ASU’s Online Master of Public Administration provides students with a curriculum that covers leadership strategies, ethical decision-making, and effective management across various organizations.

  • Transfer Credits Accepted
  • Military Friendly
  • 100% Online

Purdue Global

Online Master of Public Administration (MPA)


Purdue Global’s Online MPA is designed to help practicing and aspiring administrators develop skills and techniques to provide leadership in a wide variety of public service fields.

  • Affordable
  • Transfer Credits Accepted
  • Accredited Program

Liberty University

Online Master of Public Administration (MPA)


Liberty University’s Master’s Degree in Public Administration Online is designed to equip students with a thorough background in the theories and practices essential for success in government and nonprofit roles. MPA areas of focus include:

  • Accredited Programs
  • Affordable Degrees
  • 100% Online

Southern New Hampshire University

Online Public Administration & Political Science Degrees


Stand up and be counted with a degree in public administration/political science from Southern New Hampshire University—and learn how to facilitate change from within the system. Program offerings include:

MPA Programs in North Dakota

North Dakota, and specifically Grand Forks, offers MPA students a combination of a strong economy, low cost of living, high quality of life, diverse community, and strategic location. These factors make North Dakota an attractive option for students looking to pursue a graduate degree in public administration. An overview of North Dakota’s single MPA program can be found here:

NASPAA-accredited MPA Programs

For an MPA program, accreditation by NASPAA is a mark of quality and excellence. It signifies that the program has met or exceeded the highest standards in public service education. NASPAA accreditation is highly respected and recognized by employers, government agencies, and other institutions. North Dakota’s only MPA program is accredited by NASPAA, detailed here:

University of North Dakota

  • Grand Forks, ND
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: NASPAA, NCACSHLC

Modality: Online/On-Campus

Credit Hours: 36

GRE: Not required

Tuition: $12,163 (PYR)

Program Overview:
The MPA program at UND is designed to prepare you for success as a public administrator, policy analyst, or nonprofit executive. We recognize the current challenges in public leadership and have tailored our classes to equip you with the skills to tackle them effectively and develop innovative solutions. The curriculum covers essential topics such as ethics, human resources management, public budgeting, and public policy, providing a solid foundation for a rewarding career.

More Details

Online MPA Programs

While North Dakota does not currently have online-only MPA programs, many schools are transitioning to online or hybrid formats to meet the growing demand for flexible and accessible education.

Students interested in pursuing an MPA degree should keep an eye out for schools that are making this transition, as online programs can offer increased access, cost-effectiveness, and innovative learning experiences.

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  • NASPAA Accredited
  • No GRE Required
  • 100% Online
  • Scholarships Available

American University

Online Master’s in Public Administration and Policy


American University’s nationally recognized and NASPAA-accredited master’s in public administration provides students with a master’s-level understanding of modern governance from an award-winning faculty working and teaching in the heart of government, Washington, D.C.

  • Fully Online or Hybrid
  • Top Ranked
  • No GRE/GMAT

Ohio University

Online & Hybrid Master of Public Administration Degrees


Ohio University’s MPA programs equip graduates for leadership roles in government, nonprofit organizations, and the public sector. Concentrations include:

  • No GRE/GMAT Required
  • 100% Online
  • HLC Accredited

Walden University

Online Public Policy and Administration Programs


Walden University’s Public Administration programs are taught by a distinguished faculty of scholar-practitioners, many of whom have senior-executive experience in government and public service. Programs include:

  • No GRE/GMAT Required
  • Top Ranked
  • Built for Leaders

Arizona State University

Online Master of Public Administration (MPA)


ASU’s Online Master of Public Administration provides students with a curriculum that covers leadership strategies, ethical decision-making, and effective management across various organizations.

  • Transfer Credits Accepted
  • Military Friendly
  • 100% Online

Purdue Global

Online Master of Public Administration (MPA)


Purdue Global’s Online MPA is designed to help practicing and aspiring administrators develop skills and techniques to provide leadership in a wide variety of public service fields.

  • Affordable
  • Transfer Credits Accepted
  • Accredited Program

Liberty University

Online Master of Public Administration (MPA)


Liberty University’s Master’s Degree in Public Administration Online is designed to equip students with a thorough background in the theories and practices essential for success in government and nonprofit roles. MPA areas of focus include:

  • Accredited Programs
  • Affordable Degrees
  • 100% Online

Southern New Hampshire University

Online Public Administration & Political Science Degrees


Stand up and be counted with a degree in public administration/political science from Southern New Hampshire University—and learn how to facilitate change from within the system. Program offerings include:

Accelerated MPA Programs

Participating in an accelerated MPA program can lead to accelerated career advancement. With a master’s degree in public administration, graduates are prepared for leadership roles in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and other public service settings. The skills and knowledge gained through an accelerated program can help graduates stand out in a competitive job market and pursue rewarding career opportunities.

The ABM degree program allows exceptional undergraduate students at UND an opportunity to complete the requirements for both the bachelor’s and master’s degrees at an accelerated pace.

Affordable MPA Programs

In North Dakota, MPA tuition affordability is relatively favorable compared to national averages. The University of North Dakota, for example, offers competitive tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students ($12,136 per year). Additionally, the state’s low cost of living can further enhance the affordability of pursuing an MPA degree in North Dakota.

All MPA Programs in North Dakota

School NameDegree Program NameStateCityNASPAA AccreditedOnline DegreeProgram Link
University of North DakotaMaster Of Public AdministrationNorth DakotaGrand ForksYesYeshttps://und.edu/programs/public-administration-mpa/index.html

What Types of Careers Can I Pursue With an MPA Degree in North Dakota?

MPA graduates should consider working in North Dakota for several compelling reasons. Firstly, North Dakota offers a strong economy with diverse industries, including energy, agriculture, healthcare, and technology. This provides a range of opportunities for MPA graduates to apply their skills and knowledge in various sectors.

  • Rural Development Specialist: North Dakota has a significant rural population facing unique economic development challenges. MPA graduates in this role work with rural communities to develop and implement strategies for economic growth, infrastructure improvement, and community revitalization.
  • Oil and Gas Policy Analyst: North Dakota is a major producer of oil and natural gas, leading to complex policy issues around extraction, regulation, and environmental impact. MPA graduates in this role analyze these policies, develop recommendations, and work with stakeholders to ensure responsible resource management.
  • Disaster Recovery Manager: North Dakota is prone to natural disasters such as floods, blizzards, and wildfires. MPA graduates in this role coordinate disaster response efforts, manage recovery programs, and work to build resilience in communities across the state.
  • Agricultural Extension Agent: Agriculture is a vital industry in North Dakota, and MPA graduates in this role work with farmers, ranchers, and agricultural organizations to provide education, resources, and support for sustainable agricultural practices and rural economic development.
  • Community Health Planner: North Dakota faces unique healthcare challenges, including access to care in rural areas and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. MPA graduates in this role develop and implement community health initiatives, coordinate healthcare services, and advocate for policies that improve health outcomes for all North Dakotans.

MPA Programs in Other States