Introduction
A Master of Public Administration degree opens opportunities for unique and rewarding management careers in the public sector, nonprofit organizations, and private entities that work closely with government officials. As an MPA student, you can choose to specialize in a diverse array of degree focuses, including human resources management, criminal justice, environmental planning, and nonprofit management, among other areas. Aspiring individuals seeking a career in public administration often find themselves at the crossroads of the public sector, non-profit organizations, or private entities, all working collaboratively to support governmental agencies in achieving their objectives.
Key State Takeaways:
- Total MPA Programs Statewide: 13
- NASPAA-Accredited Programs: 8
- Annual Resident Tuition Average: $3,800 (PSR)
- Annual Non-Resident Tuition Average: $7,900 (PSR)
- Program Formats Offered: On-campus, online, and hybrid
- Average Starting Salary: $61,200 (per year)
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- 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:
NASPAA-Accredited MPA Programs in Florida
Currently, seven Florida institutions have earned NASPAA accreditation for their MPA programs. By meeting and exceeding NASPAA’s stringent standards, these accredited programs not only elevate the academic standing of the institutions but also contribute to the overall advancement of public administration education in the state. Prospective students seeking to embark on a career in public administration can rely on the NASPAA accreditation as a valuable indicator of the quality and relevance of the programs offered by these institutions. The following is an overview of Florida’s seven NASPAA-accredited institutions:
University of South Florida
- Tampa, FL.
- 42 Credit Hours
- Campus + Online + Hybrid
Program:
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
The University of South Florida’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the School of Public Affairs within the College of Arts and Sciences—prepares students for leadership and management positions across government, nonprofit, and community-based organizations. Situated in Tampa, one of Florida’s fastest-growing metropolitan regions, USF’s MPA program blends public service values with an emphasis on innovation, strategic management, and data-informed decision-making. Students benefit from access to a diverse urban policy environment, close faculty mentorship, and flexible course options that accommodate both full-time students and working professionals.
Unique Components:
- Comprehensive and Flexible Curriculum: The MPA program offers both traditional and online formats, allowing students to customize their learning through electives in emergency management, urban policy, and nonprofit administration.
- Strong Emphasis on Ethical and Accountable Leadership: The program integrates public service ethics, transparency, and community engagement into its curriculum to prepare students for responsible governance.
- Applied Internship and Capstone Experience: Students complete a professional internship or capstone project that directly applies public management and policy analysis skills to real-world organizational challenges.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus, online, hybrid
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 42
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $431 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $877 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 60%
- Enrollment: 90-110 students
Other Considerations:
- Regional Engagement and Professional Networks: Located in the Tampa Bay area, the program offers access to internships and partnerships with local governments, planning agencies, and nonprofit organizations throughout Central Florida.
- NASPAA Accreditation and National Recognition: The USF MPA program is fully accredited by NASPAA, ensuring its curriculum meets national standards for excellence in public service education.
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL.
- 42 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
School of Public Administration
Program Overview:
The University of Central Florida’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the School of Public Administration in the College of Community Innovation and Education—prepares students to become effective leaders and managers in public, nonprofit, and private organizations. With options for on-campus or fully online learning, UCF’s MPA provides exceptional flexibility for working professionals. The university’s strong partnerships with local governments, planning agencies, and nonprofits throughout Central Florida offer students ample opportunities for applied learning and professional development—making it one of the most accessible and career-relevant MPA programs in the Southeast.
Unique Components:
- Flexible On-Campus and Online Options: The program is offered both fully online and face-to-face at UCF’s downtown Orlando campus, allowing students to complete the degree in a format that fits their schedule.
- Capstone and Applied Research Experience: The MPA culminates in a capstone project that enables students to integrate classroom learning with practical problem-solving for public or nonprofit organizations.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online, on-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 42
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $327 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,151 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Enrollment: 150-180 students
Other Considerations:
- Strong Professional Partnerships in Central Florida: UCF’s close connections with city and county governments, regional planning organizations, and nonprofits create numerous internship and networking opportunities for students.
- Pathway to Dual Degrees and Certificates: Students may combine the MPA with UCF’s Master of Nonprofit Management (MNM) or pursue graduate certificates in urban and regional planning, emergency management, or public budgeting and finance.
Florida International University
- Miami, FL.
- 42 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Florida International University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—housed within the Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs—prepares students to lead effectively in complex and diverse public service environments. As one of the nation’s largest and most globally connected universities, FIU’s MPA program combines academic rigor with a strong emphasis on ethical leadership, policy innovation, and public sector management. Located in Miami, an international hub for governance and cross-cultural collaboration, the program provides a distinctive focus on diversity, globalization, and urban policy. Students benefit from access to experienced faculty, extensive professional networks, and opportunities to engage directly with South Florida’s governmental and nonprofit organizations.
Unique Components:
- Flexible Learning Formats: Students can complete the MPA entirely online, on-campus at FIU’s Modesto A. Maidique Campus, or through a hybrid schedule—offering maximum flexibility for working professionals.
- Emphasis on Global and Urban Policy Leadership: Reflecting Miami’s global context, the program integrates international perspectives and urban management principles, preparing graduates for leadership roles in multicultural environments.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus, online
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 42
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $455 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,001 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Enrollment: 200 students
Other Considerations:
- Public Service Leadership and Ethics Focus: The curriculum emphasizes ethics, accountability, and service, fostering public managers who are capable of navigating diverse and dynamic governance systems.
- Strong Community and Professional Connections: Students gain access to Miami’s extensive network of local governments, nonprofit organizations, and international agencies, creating valuable internship and career opportunities.
Florida Atlantic University
- Boca Raton, FL.
- 45 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters
Program Overview:
Florida Atlantic University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the School of Public Administration within the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters—prepares students for leadership and management roles across local, state, and federal government, as well as nonprofit and private organizations. Students benefit from small class sizes, experienced faculty, and strong professional connections across South Florida’s public and nonprofit sectors. With both on-campus and online course options, the program is designed to serve a wide range of students—from recent graduates to mid-career professionals.
Unique Components:
- Applied Learning and Internship Focus: The program integrates internships and applied projects that give students hands-on experience with public agencies and nonprofit organizations in the South Florida region.
- Commitment to Diversity and Ethics: FAU’s MPA curriculum emphasizes inclusion, accountability, and ethical decision-making to prepare students for leadership in diverse community and governmental settings.
- Regional Engagement and Professional Networks: The program’s partnerships with municipalities and nonprofit organizations throughout Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties provide strong internship and career placement opportunities.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus, online
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 45
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $372 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,027 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Enrollment: 100-120 students
Other Considerations:
- Flexible Course Delivery: Students can complete the program fully online, on-campus at the Boca Raton campus, or through hybrid formats—accommodating both full-time students and working professionals.
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, FL.
- 42 Credit Hours
- Campus
Program:
Askew School of Public Administration and Policy
Program Overview:
Florida State University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Askew School of Public Administration and Policy—stands as one of the oldest and most prestigious programs of its kind in the nation. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of public management, policy analysis, budgeting, and leadership—supported by faculty who are national experts in governance, ethics, and performance management. The program’s location provides students direct access to state agencies, legislative bodies, and nonprofit organizations, translating theory into practical experience.
Unique Components:
- Capital City Policy Access: Located steps from the Florida Capitol, FSU’s MPA offers unmatched access to state government agencies, legislative internships, and public policy research opportunities—integrating classroom learning with firsthand policymaking experience.
- Research-Driven Public Management Education: Students benefit from the Askew School’s nationally recognized research centers focusing on performance management, nonprofit innovation, and emergency management, creating opportunities for applied policy research.
- Dual Degree and Joint Program Options: The MPA can be paired with degrees such as Law (JD/MPA), Urban and Regional Planning (MSP/MPA), or Social Work (MSW/MPA), allowing interdisciplinary career preparation.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 42
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $479 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,110 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 55%
- Enrollment: 150-180 students
Other Considerations:
- Ethics and Democratic Governance Emphasis: Rooted in the Askew School’s founding mission, the curriculum prioritizes democratic accountability, ethical leadership, and public integrity as core competencies for public administrators.
- Distinguished Alumni and Statewide Impact: FSU’s MPA alumni network includes city and county managers, state agency directors, and nonprofit executives throughout Florida—offering a robust professional network for mentoring and career advancement.
University of North Florida
- Jacksonville, FL.
- 42 Credit Hours
- Campus
Program:
Department of Political Science and Public Administration
Program Overview:
The University of North Florida’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Political Science and Public Administration within the College of Arts and Sciences—prepares students for professional careers in government, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector. UNF’s small class sizes, personalized faculty mentorship, and close partnerships with regional agencies make it an excellent choice for students seeking a hands-on, community-connected graduate education. The program’s affordability, NASPAA accreditation, and flexible class scheduling also make it particularly attractive to working professionals balancing career advancement with continued education.
Unique Components:
- Community-Engaged Public Service Model: UNF’s MPA program is deeply connected to Jacksonville’s public and nonprofit sectors, emphasizing experiential learning through internships, applied projects, and partnerships with local governments.
- Concentrations in Public and Nonprofit Management: Students can tailor their studies with concentrations in Public Management or Nonprofit Management, aligning coursework with specific career paths in administration and leadership.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus (evening)
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 42
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $364 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,044 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Enrollment: 50-70 students
Other Considerations:
- Applied Research and Capstone Experience: The program culminates in an applied research project that allows students to address real organizational or policy challenges using evidence-based methods.
- Affordable NASPAA-Accredited Program: As one of the most cost-effective NASPAA-accredited MPA programs in Florida, UNF provides high-quality education and professional preparation at a competitive tuition rate.
University of West Florida
- Pensacola, FL.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Online + Hybrid
Program:
Department of Administration and Law
Program Overview:
The University of West Florida’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Administration and Law within the Reubin O’D. Askew College of Business and the Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering—prepares students to become ethical, effective, and innovative leaders across government, nonprofit, and private sectors. Based in Pensacola, the program combines a strong foundation in administrative theory and policy analysis with practical, hands-on learning designed to address real-world public management challenges. UWF’s MPA program emphasizes professional competency, analytical reasoning, and community engagement—qualities essential for managing today’s complex public organizations. Students benefit from small class sizes, experienced faculty, and flexible online and hybrid options that make the degree accessible to both full-time professionals and traditional graduate students.
Unique Components:
- Capstone and Internship Integration: The program culminates in a capstone project or internship, allowing students to apply academic learning directly to professional settings and community issues.
- Regional Public Service Focus: Located in Pensacola, the program maintains partnerships with local governments, planning agencies, and nonprofits across Northwest Florida, providing rich opportunities for applied research and career placement.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online, hybrid
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $384 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,044 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Enrollment: 40-60 students
Other Considerations:
- Affordable Tuition and High Accessibility: As one of Florida’s most cost-effective NASPAA-accredited programs, UWF’s MPA offers exceptional value with in-state and online tuition rates well below national averages.
Nova Southeastern University
- Fort Lauderdale, FL.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Online
Program:
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Nova Southeastern University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences—prepares students to lead effectively in government, nonprofit, and corporate settings where public policy and organizational management intersect. Located in Fort Lauderdale, NSU’s MPA program emphasizes ethical governance, administrative innovation, and evidence-based decision-making. The program is designed to meet the needs of both early-career and mid-career professionals, offering flexible online and hybrid delivery formats that accommodate busy schedules. Faculty are experienced practitioners and scholars who bring real-world public sector insight into the classroom, ensuring that coursework remains current and applicable.
Unique Components:
- Interdisciplinary Leadership Focus: The program blends management, policy analysis, and organizational leadership—preparing graduates to lead across government, nonprofit, and private sectors.
- Experienced Practitioner Faculty: Courses are taught by faculty who have served in government and nonprofit leadership roles, providing applied, real-world perspectives that bridge theory and practice.
- Applied Capstone Project: The degree culminates in a capstone experience where students develop research-based solutions to real administrative or policy challenges faced by public organizations.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online only
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Not required
- Tuition: $1,100 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Enrollment: 50-70 students
Other Considerations:
- Leadership Certificate Pathway: Students may pursue specialized graduate certificates in areas such as public management, conflict resolution, or organizational leadership to complement their MPA degree.
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- 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:
Non-Accredited Schools
In Florida, numerous NASPAA-accredited programs at universities like Florida State and the University of Central Florida set a high standard for public administration education, but non-accredited MPA programs throughout the state can also be valuable. Schools such as Florida Gulf Coast University and Barry University offer accessible, career-focused curricula that emphasize community leadership, ethical governance, and public management. Many of these programs feature flexible formats, making them ideal for working professionals:
| Institution | Location | Accreditation | Credit Hours | Modality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida Gulf Coast University | Fort Myers, FL | SACSCOC | 36 | Online |
| Barry University | Miami, FL | SACSCOC | 36 | Online |
| University of Miami | Coral Gables, FL | SACSCOC | 36 | Online/On Campus |
| Strayer University – Florida | Tampa, FL | MSCHE | 30 | Online |
| Florida Institute of Technology | Orlando, FL | SACSCOC | 33 | Online/On Campus |
Florida Gulf Coast University
- Fort Myers, FL.
- 42 Credit Hours
- Campus + Hybrid
Program:
Department of Political Science and Public Administration
Program Overview:
Florida Gulf Coast University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Political Science and Public Administration within the College of Arts and Sciences—prepares students to manage and lead effectively in public, nonprofit, and private organizations. Located in Fort Myers, FGCU’s MPA program emphasizes community engagement, sustainability, and ethical public service in a region experiencing rapid growth and development. The program’s curriculum blends theory and practice, helping students develop essential skills in budgeting, policy analysis, human resources, and leadership while applying them through internships and real-world projects.
Unique Components:
- Focus on Sustainable and Resilient Communities: Reflecting Southwest Florida’s environmental and growth challenges, the FGCU MPA integrates sustainability, emergency management, and community resilience into its public service curriculum.
- Applied Internship and Capstone Experience: Students complete an internship or capstone project to apply classroom learning to local or regional government, nonprofit, or policy initiatives.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus, hybrid
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 42
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $373 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,027 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- Enrollment: 40-60 students
Other Considerations:
- Regional Partnerships and Career Pathways: FGCU maintains strong relationships with local municipalities, regional planning councils, and nonprofits across Southwest Florida, creating direct internship and employment pipelines.
Florida Institute of Technology
- Melbourne, FL.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Online
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Florida Institute of Technology’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the School of Arts and Communication within the College of Psychology and Liberal Arts—prepares students for leadership and administrative roles in government, nonprofit, and private organizations that interface with the public sector. Based in Melbourne, Florida, this program stands out for its emphasis on organizational effectiveness, strategic planning, and performance-based management—rooted in Florida Tech’s broader strengths in science, technology, and applied research. Offered entirely online, the Florida Tech MPA caters especially to mid-career professionals seeking to advance their careers while balancing full-time work and personal commitments.
Unique Components:
- Technology-Driven Public Administration Education: Leveraging Florida Tech’s STEM-oriented culture, the MPA program emphasizes data analytics, performance metrics, and innovation in public and nonprofit management.
- Applied Focus on Management and Leadership: The curriculum emphasizes strategic management, budgeting, human resources, and organizational behavior, preparing graduates to lead effectively in real-world public service contexts.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online only
- Accreditation: N/A
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Not required
- Online Tuition: $600 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Enrollment: 50-70 students
Other Considerations:
- Flexible, Practitioner-Oriented Learning: Designed for mid-career professionals, the program focuses on real-world application and practical administrative skills rather than purely theoretical study.
Career Outlook
Earning a Master of Public Administration in Florida prepares graduates for leadership roles in state and local government, nonprofit management, and community development. The state’s expanding population, environmental challenges, and emphasis on infrastructure and emergency preparedness create strong demand for professionals skilled in policy, budgeting, and organizational management:
- Policy Analyst / Program Evaluator: Researches and evaluates government programs and policy proposals, providing data-driven recommendations.
- Nonprofit Executive or Program Director: Leads nonprofit organizations, manages grants, coordinates community programs, and ensures financial accountability.
- Emergency Management Specialist / Director: Plans and coordinates emergency response strategies, disaster recovery, and hazard mitigation programs.
- Environmental Policy Analyst / Planner: Develops and evaluates environmental policies, sustainability plans, and conservation programs.
- Economic Development or Community Development Specialist: Promotes business growth, job creation, and regional revitalization through strategic public investment and planning.er. Florida State University also offers tuition at $3,632 per semester.
All MPA Programs in Florida
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What concentrations or specializations are available in Florida’s MPA programs?
A: Specializations vary by institution but often include nonprofit management, emergency management, urban and regional planning, public finance, and human resource management. Florida International University and UCF, for example, offer unique concentrations focused on public policy and global public affairs.
Q: What kinds of experiential learning opportunities do Florida MPA programs offer?
A: Florida universities emphasize applied learning through internships, capstone projects, and service-learning experiences. Students often intern with city and county governments, nonprofit organizations, and state agencies in Tallahassee, Orlando, Tampa, and Miami, gaining real-world experience in public management and policymaking.
Q: What career opportunities are available for MPA graduates in Florida?
A: Graduates commonly pursue roles such as city or county administrator, policy analyst, nonprofit manager, emergency management coordinator, or budget analyst. Florida’s growing urban areas, regional planning organizations, and tourism-driven local economies offer diverse career options in public and nonprofit sectors.
Q: Are there accelerated or dual-degree MPA options in Florida?
A: Yes. Several universities offer accelerated “4+1” programs that let undergraduates earn an MPA in about five years. Dual-degree options—such as the MPA/Master of Urban and Regional Planning or MPA/Master of Public Health—are also available at schools like Florida State and Florida International, providing interdisciplinary pathways for leadership in government and policy.
