Introduction
Despite being the second smallest US state by land area, public administration is still in demand in the state of Delaware. That is because Delaware has a population of nearly 1 million living across its 57 municipalities – each with its own local government that manages public functions. Public administrators are problem-solvers who meet complicated challenges in serving the public good.
There are 3 master’s in public administration programs offered by universities in the state of Delaware. This includes both online and campus-based programs. In Delaware, one MPA program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), while the other two programs are accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Key State Takeaways:
- Total MPA Programs Statewide: 3
- NASPAA-Accredited Programs: 1
- Annual Resident Tuition Average: $16,380 (TTL)
- Annual Non-Resident Tuition Average: $34,200 (TTL)
- Program Formats Offered: On-campus, online, hybrid
- Average Starting Salary: $68,000
NASPAA-Accredited MPA Programs in Delaware
There is one NASPAA-accredited program in the state of Delaware. NASPAA accreditation acknowledges that a master’s degree program in nonprofit or public administration, policy, or affairs has undertaken a rigorous peer review process conducted by the Commission on Peer Review and Accreditation (COPRA). Here is an overview of the University of Delaware’s MPA program – the only NASPAA-accredited program in the state of Delaware.
University of Delaware
- Newark, DE.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
School of Public Policy and Administration
Program Overview:
The University of Delaware’s MPA program is housed in the Joseph R. Biden, Jr. School of Public Policy and Administration, a nationally recognized leader in public service education. Students develop skills in public management, policy analysis, finance, and leadership, with opportunities to engage in applied research, internships, and community partnerships that connect classroom theory to real-world practice.
Unique Components:
- Delaware Model of Public Service: Strong emphasis on blending academics, research, and practice, where students contribute to projects through the Institute for Public Administration (IPA).
- Specialized Tracks: Options to pursue concentrations in nonprofit management, public finance, and state & local management.
- Research & Engagement Centers: Students may participate in hands-on policy and planning projects through centers such as the IPA and the Biden Institute.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus, online
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $1,028 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $2,044 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 61%
- Enrollment: 80-100 students
Other Considerations:
- Executive Track: Aimed at mid-career professionals balancing work and study. Combines strong academic rigor with applied public service learning through the Delaware model.
- Location Advantage: Close ties to state and local government in Dover and Wilmington create strong pipelines to public service careers.
Non-Accredited Schools
In Delaware, the University of Delaware’s NASPAA-accredited MPA program is the flagship option, but non-NASPAA accredited schools in the state also offer programs that can be worthwhile. Institutions like Delaware State University provide MPA degrees with accessible tuition, online formats, and a strong emphasis on practical leadership skills:
| Institution | Location | Accreditation | Credit Hours | Modality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware State University | Dover, DE. | NEASC | 36 | On-Campus |
| Strayer University | Wilmington, DE. | NEASC | 54 | Online |
Career Outlook
Delaware’s compact size, proximity to major metros like Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., and concentration of state agencies in Dover create a distinctive environment for public administration careers. MPA graduates can find opportunities in state and local government, nonprofits, and sectors like health, finance, and planning that are central to Delaware’s economy and governance.
- State Government Administration: The State of Delaware employs professionals such as Management Analysts and Program Managers in Dover, focusing on budgeting, operations, and program evaluation.
- Local Government Leadership: Cities like Wilmington and Newark recruit roles such as City Planner and Budget Officer to manage urban growth and fiscal health.
- Public Health & Human Services: The Delaware Division of Public Health hires positions such as Public Health Administrator I, managing community health programs and services statewide.
- Nonprofit Management: Delaware nonprofits, including United Way of Delaware, seek Program Directors and Community Engagement Managers to advance social service initiatives.
- Transportation & Regional Planning: The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) employs Transportation Planners and policy analysts to guide infrastructure, safety, and mobility projects across the state.
These opportunities highlight how MPA graduates in Delaware can make an impact by managing state programs in Dover, shaping city planning in Wilmington, leading nonprofits, or advancing health and transportation policy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are there NASPAA-accredited MPA programs in Delaware?
A: Yes. The University of Delaware’s Master of Public Administration program, offered through the Biden School of Public Policy and Administration, is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA). This accreditation ensures the program meets rigorous academic and professional standards in public service education.
Q: Can I complete an MPA degree online if I live in Delaware?
A: The University of Delaware offers its MPA program in a traditional, on-campus format in Newark. For students who require flexibility, Delaware residents often explore online MPA options from nearby accredited institutions in neighboring states (such as Pennsylvania, Maryland, and New Jersey) or national online universities that admit Delaware students.
Q: What specializations or focus areas are available in Delaware’s MPA program?
A: The University of Delaware’s MPA program allows students to pursue concentrations in areas such as nonprofit management, state and local management, public policy, and fiscal administration. Students also benefit from experiential learning opportunities with Delaware’s state agencies, nonprofit organizations, and local governments.
Q: What career paths are common for MPA graduates in Delaware?
A: MPA graduates in Delaware often pursue careers as city or county administrators, policy analysts, nonprofit managers, grant writers, and program evaluators. Given Delaware’s location in the Mid-Atlantic, graduates also have opportunities in regional, federal, and interstate organizations, in addition to positions within the State of Delaware’s government.
Q: How long does it typically take to complete an MPA program in Delaware?
A: A full-time student can typically complete the University of Delaware’s MPA program in two years. Part-time options are also available for working professionals, allowing for greater flexibility, but extending the timeline to approximately three to four years depending on course load.
