Introduction
Public administration in the State of Georgia can involve- but is not limited to- the management and implementation of government policies and programs at various levels. Many individuals who choose to pursue a career in public administration become employed in the public sector, a non-profit organization, or a private entity assisting governmental agencies. In Georgia, this can include roles in the state’s three-tiered system of government comprising state, county, and municipal agencies.
Key State Takeaways:
- Total MPA Programs Statewide: 14
- NASPAA-Accredited Programs: 10
- Annual Resident Tuition Average: $9,500 (PYR)
- Annual Non-Resident Tuition Average: $23,000 (PYR)
- Program Formats Offered: On-campus, hybrid, online
- Average Starting Salary: $58,000 – $68,000
ADVERTISEMENT
- 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 Georgia
The Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) is a global accrediting body that evaluates and accredits Master of Public Administration (MPA), Master of Public Policy (MPP), and related programs.
Schools that are accredited by NASPAA have undergone a comprehensive review process, ensuring that they meet established standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, and program outcomes. There are currently 10 educational institutions in Georgia that offer a Master of Public Administration program accredited by NASPAA.
Albany State University
- Albany, GA.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Albany State University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Social Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences—prepares students to become effective, ethical, and service-oriented leaders in government, nonprofit, and public service organizations. The program is particularly focused on preparing professionals who will serve rural and economically diverse communities across Georgia and the Southeast. With flexible online and on-campus options, small class sizes, and experienced faculty with both academic and practitioner expertise, ASU’s MPA program provides accessible, high-quality public administration training aligned with the university’s mission as a Historically Black University (HBCU) committed to leadership, equity, and regional service.
Unique Components:
- HBCU Tradition of Leadership and Service: Rooted in Albany State’s historic mission, the MPA program cultivates public administrators dedicated to equity, inclusion, and improving governance in diverse communities.
- Focus on Rural and Regional Public Service: The program places a strong emphasis on preparing graduates to address administrative and policy challenges in rural and underserved areas throughout Georgia.
- Capstone Applied Research Project: Students complete a culminating capstone project that integrates management, policy, and leadership concepts to solve real-world organizational issues.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus, online
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCOC
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $188 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $688 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Enrollment: 60-80 students
Other Considerations:
- Affordable, NASPAA-Accredited Program: Albany State offers one of the most affordable NASPAA-accredited MPA programs in Georgia, ensuring a high-quality and accessible pathway to careers in public service.
- Flexible Online and On-Campus Delivery: Students can pursue the MPA entirely online or through on-campus classes, making the program ideal for both working professionals and full-time students.
Augusta University
- Augusta, GA.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus + Hybrid
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Augusta University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Social Sciences in Pamplin College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences—prepares students to become capable, ethical, and data-informed leaders in government, nonprofit, and community organizations. Located in Augusta, Georgia, a rapidly growing city that serves as a hub for healthcare, cybersecurity, and regional governance, the program combines academic rigor with practical, experiential learning. Students develop strong competencies in policy analysis, organizational leadership, and financial management while applying those skills through internships and community-based research projects.
Unique Components:
- Integration of Public Administration and Regional Innovation: Leveraging Augusta’s growing reputation as a center for healthcare and cybersecurity policy, the MPA program incorporates emerging issues in technology management and public innovation into its curriculum.
- Applied Community Partnerships: Students engage directly with local governments, regional planning agencies, and nonprofits through internships and client-based research projects that address real policy and management challenges in the Augusta area.
- Interdisciplinary Faculty and Practitioner Engagement: Faculty members bring expertise from public administration, political science, and applied economics, ensuring students receive diverse perspectives grounded in both theory and practice.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus, hybrid, online
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCOC
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Required
- Resident Tuition: $273 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,102 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Enrollment: 40-60 students
Other Considerations:
- Strong Emphasis on Public Service Leadership and Accountability: The program’s mission prioritizes ethical governance, accountability, and effective management practices—core values reinforced through applied coursework and professional engagement.
Georgia College & State University
- Milledgeville, GA.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Online
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Georgia College & State University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Government and Sociology in the College of Arts and Sciences—prepares students for professional leadership and management roles across government, nonprofit, and community organizations. Students develop the analytical, managerial, and policy skills required to navigate today’s complex public sector challenges while gaining real-world experience through internships and applied research. With small class sizes, flexible online and hybrid options, and NASPAA accreditation, Georgia College’s MPA program provides an accessible, high-quality pathway for both aspiring and experienced public service professionals.
Unique Components:
- Georgia’s Public Liberal Arts University Advantage: The program reflects Georgia College’s liberal arts mission, emphasizing critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and public service leadership within a collaborative academic environment.
- Applied Capstone and Internship Integration: The curriculum includes an applied capstone project and internship opportunities with Georgia’s local and state government agencies, reinforcing practical administrative experience.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online only
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCOC
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Contingent on GPA
- Resident Tuition: $321 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,100 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Enrollment: 60-80 students
Other Considerations:
- Leadership-Focused Curriculum: The program emphasizes ethical leadership and effective communication across all levels of public administration, aligning closely with the needs of Georgia’s government and nonprofit sectors.
Georgia Southern University
- Statesboro, GA.
- 39 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus + Hybrid
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Georgia Southern University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Public and Nonprofit Studies in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences—prepares students for careers as effective, ethical, and accountable leaders in public service. Based in Statesboro, with course offerings also available in Savannah and online, the program blends practical administrative skills with policy analysis, leadership training, and research-based decision-making. The Georgia Southern MPA is known for its applied learning approach, regional engagement, and emphasis on preparing students to address the real-world challenges of governance and nonprofit management, particularly in the rapidly growing southeastern region of the United States. Students benefit from small classes, practitioner faculty, and flexible scheduling that accommodates working professionals.
Unique Components:
- Applied Regional Engagement: The program emphasizes service to the coastal and rural communities of southeast Georgia, preparing graduates for leadership roles that strengthen local governance and regional policy capacity.
- Multiple Delivery Locations and Formats: Courses are available on the Statesboro and Armstrong (Savannah) campuses, as well as online, allowing flexibility for students across Georgia.
- Applied Internship and Capstone Research: Every student completes a professional internship or applied capstone project focused on real organizational or policy issues, enhancing both career readiness and research skills.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online, hybrid, on-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCOC
- Credit Hours: 39
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $282 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,055 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Enrollment: 80-100 students
Other Considerations:
- Concentrations in Public Management and Nonprofit Management: Students can specialize in public administration or nonprofit leadership to align their coursework with professional goals.
Georgia State University
- Atlanta, GA.
- 39 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus + Hybrid
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Georgia State University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies—is one of the most prestigious and nationally ranked programs in the country for public and nonprofit leadership. Located in downtown Atlanta, GSU’s MPA program combines rigorous academic training with exceptional professional development opportunities in Georgia’s capital and largest metropolitan area. With concentrations in Public Management and Nonprofit Management, world-class faculty, and a strong reputation for research and innovation, GSU’s MPA is a top destination for students seeking to advance in government and civic leadership both regionally and globally.
Unique Components:
- Research-Intensive Program: The Andrew Young School’s MPA consistently ranks among the top 10% of public affairs programs nationwide, known for excellence in urban policy, nonprofit management, and public finance.
- Government and Policy Access: Situated in Georgia’s capital, students have unparalleled access to internships and partnerships with state agencies, city governments, and leading nonprofit and advocacy organizations.
- Strong Nonprofit and International Focus: Through partnerships with international NGOs and Atlanta’s globally connected institutions, the program integrates global governance perspectives into a local urban context.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus, hybrid, online
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCOC
- Credit Hours: 39
- GRE: Contingent on GPA
- Resident Tuition: $383 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,250 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 55-60%
- Enrollment: 200 students
Other Considerations:
- Public Service and Civic Leadership Legacy: Named after civil rights leader and former U.N. ambassador Andrew Young, the school embodies a strong ethos of public service, ethical leadership, and community transformation.
- Interdisciplinary and Data-Driven Curriculum: The MPA emphasizes performance measurement, budgeting, and evidence-based policy, leveraging GSU’s reputation as a data analytics and public finance powerhouse.
Kennesaw State University
- Kennesaw, GA.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Campus
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Kennesaw State University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the School of Government and International Affairs in the Norman J. Radow College of Humanities and Social Sciences—prepares students for administrative and leadership roles across local, state, and federal government, as well as in nonprofit and private organizations. Located in the fast-growing Atlanta metropolitan area, KSU’s MPA program emphasizes practical problem-solving, ethical governance, and innovative management in today’s dynamic public service environment.
Unique Components:
- Strategic Atlanta Metropolitan Location: The program’s proximity to major government agencies and nonprofits in the Atlanta metro area provides students with exceptional internship and employment opportunities in one of the Southeast’s largest public service job markets.
- Customizable Concentrations and Certificates: Students can specialize through concentrations or graduate certificates in areas such as Nonprofit Management, Policy Analysis and Evaluation, Public Budgeting and Finance, and Criminal Justice Administration.
- Strong Practitioner-Faculty Integration: The program’s faculty includes experienced public managers and policy practitioners, ensuring coursework integrates both academic rigor and real-world experience.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus only
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCOC
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $296 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,066 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Enrollment: 90-110 students
Other Considerations:
- Applied Research and Community Partnerships: Through the A.L. Burruss Institute of Public Service and Research, students engage in applied policy research and service-learning projects that support Georgia’s local and regional governments.
Savannah State University
- Savannah, GA.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus + Hybrid
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Savannah State University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Political Science and Public Affairs in the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences—prepares students for leadership and management careers in government, nonprofit, and community organizations. As Georgia’s oldest Historically Black College and University (HBCU), Savannah State’s MPA program emphasizes ethical leadership, equity, and community-based problem solving rooted in the institution’s strong tradition of public service.
Unique Components:
- Historic HBCU Commitment to Public Service and Equity: The program integrates Savannah State’s legacy of service and social responsibility, preparing leaders to advance equity and ethical governance in diverse communities.
- Applied Capstone and Internship Requirement: The program includes an applied research or internship component, enabling students to gain hands-on experience addressing real policy and administrative challenges.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus, online, hybrid
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCOC
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Contingent on GPA
- Resident Tuition: $188 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $688 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Enrollment: 40-60 students
Other Considerations:
- Strategic Coastal Georgia Location: Situated in Savannah, the program provides students with access to government, nonprofit, and port-related organizations, offering practical experience in urban, regional, and environmental policy contexts.
University of Georgia
- Athens, GA.
- 41 Credit Hours
- Campus
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
The University of Georgia’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA)—is consistently ranked among the top public affairs programs in the nation. Based in Athens, Georgia, the UGA MPA program is designed to prepare students for careers in public service leadership, management, and policy analysis at all levels of government, as well as in nonprofit and international organizations. Students are mentored by nationally recognized faculty and have opportunities to engage in applied research through the Carl Vinson Institute of Government, one of the most influential university-based public service and policy research institutions in the country.
Unique Components:
- Top-Ranked Public Administration Program: UGA’s MPA is consistently ranked among the top 10 public affairs programs in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report, known for excellence in local government management and public finance.
- Carl Vinson Institute of Government: Students gain hands-on experience through research, consulting, and policy projects with the Carl Vinson Institute—connecting academic learning to real public sector challenges.
- Research and Internship Opportunities: The program requires internships and applied projects, ensuring graduates are prepared with direct experience in public management, policy analysis, or fiscal administration.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus only
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCOC
- Credit Hours: 41
- GRE: Required
- Resident Tuition: $370 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,050 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 50-55%
- Enrollment: 150-200 students
Other Considerations:
- Extensive Alumni and Employer Network: With a strong statewide reputation, UGA MPA alumni hold leadership positions across Georgia’s cities, counties, and agencies—creating a powerful professional network for graduates.
University of West Georgia
- Carrollton, GA.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus + Hybrid
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
The University of West Georgia’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Civic Engagement and Public Service in the School of Social Sciences—prepares students to become skilled, ethical, and community-focused leaders in government, nonprofit, and public sector organizations. Located in Carrollton, Georgia, the program is designed to serve both recent graduates and working professionals seeking to advance their administrative and policy expertise. With small class sizes, flexible hybrid and evening course options, and a strong focus on leadership in local and regional governance, the program offers a personalized, accessible, and affordable pathway to public service careers in west Georgia and beyond.
Unique Components:
- Community Leadership: The program places a strong emphasis on strengthening local and regional governance through partnerships with municipalities, counties, and nonprofit organizations across west Georgia.
- Internships and Capstone Projects: Students complete hands-on projects and internships that address real public management and policy challenges, integrating classroom learning with community service.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online, on-campus, hybrid
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCOC
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $241 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $850 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Enrollment: 40-60 students
Other Considerations:
- Options for Professionals: Courses are offered in flexible formats to accommodate working adults seeking to balance full-time employment with graduate study.
- NASPAA-Accredited Program: As a NASPAA-accredited institution, UWG offers high academic quality at one of the most affordable tuition rates in Georgia, providing strong value for aspiring public administrators.
Valdosta State University
- Valdosta, GA.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Online
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Valdosta State University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Political Science in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences—prepares students to lead and manage effectively in public, nonprofit, and community organizations. The program is designed for both early-career students and mid-career professionals, offering fully online, hybrid, and on-campus formats to meet diverse student needs. With NASPAA accreditation, a strong regional reputation, and innovative partnerships across Georgia’s public sector, Valdosta State’s MPA program provides a comprehensive, accessible, and practice-oriented education rooted in the values of ethics, accountability, and service.
Unique Components:
- Public Sector Management and Public Policy: Students can tailor their studies with concentrations or electives in public policy, leadership, and organizational development.
- Internship Experience: Every student completes a culminating applied project or internship to gain direct experience addressing management and policy challenges in the public sector.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCOC
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $231 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $850 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Enrollment: 100-120 students
Other Considerations:
- NASPAA-Accredited Online Program: The VSU eMPA (Executive MPA) is one of the first fully accredited online MPA programs in the Southeast, designed specifically for experienced public service professionals.
ADVERTISEMENT
- 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
Georgia is also home to several non-accredited graduate programs in public administration, public policy, and related disciplines that provide valuable and accessible pathways into public service careers. These programs—often housed within regional universities or specialized departments—may not yet have NASPAA accreditation due to their smaller size, newer establishment, or distinct curricular focus, but they still play a critical role in building local leadership capacity across the state:
| Institution | Location | Accreditation | Credit Hours | Modality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clayton State University | Morrow, GA30260 | SACSCOC | 36 | Online |
| Columbus State University | Columbus, GA31907 | SACSCOC | 36 | Online/Hybrid/On Campus |
| South University | Savannah, GA31404 | SACSCOC | 48 | Online |
| University of North Georgia | Gainesville, GA 30503 | SACSCOC | 36 | Online |
Career Outlook
Graduates in Public Administration concentrations can hold a broad range of jobs in governments—local, regional, state, and federal—and the nonprofit sector and even the private sector. There are a vast variety of professional opportunities not only in the Atlanta metropolitan area, but also throughout the State of Georgia.
MPA graduates in Georgia are prepared for various roles in public service, including positions in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private-sector firms working with government entities:
- Planning and budget director (Georgia Senate Budget Office)
- City or county manager (DeKalb County)
- Policy advisor (Office of the Governor)
- Executive director (Metro Atlanta Senior Services)
- Lobbyist (United States Department of Commerce)
- Financial analyst (Georgia Building Authority)
- Urban planner (Atlanta Regional Council of Governments)
- Economic development coordinator (Georgia Municipal Association)
- Tax commissioner (Gwinnett County)
All MPA Programs in Georgia
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes Georgia a great place to pursue an MPA?
A: Georgia’s mix of urban, suburban, and rural communities provides MPA students with exposure to a wide range of governance and policy challenges. Atlanta’s role as a regional hub for business, government, and nonprofit activity gives students unparalleled access to internships and professional networks, while smaller cities and counties across the state offer meaningful opportunities in local government and community development.
Q: Can I earn my MPA online in Georgia?
A: Yes. Several universities—including Valdosta State, Georgia Southern, and Kennesaw State—offer fully online or hybrid MPA programs. These flexible options are ideal for working professionals looking to advance their careers without relocating or giving up full-time employment.
Q: How long does it take to complete an MPA in Georgia?
A: Most MPA programs in Georgia require around 36 to 42 credit hours and can be completed in two years of full-time study. Part-time students typically finish in three to four years, depending on their workload and course availability.
Q: What concentrations or areas of specialization are available?
A: Concentrations vary by school but commonly include nonprofit management, public finance, emergency management, and urban policy. The University of Georgia, for example, offers a nationally recognized focus on local government administration, while Georgia State emphasizes urban and regional policy.
Q: What types of experiential learning or internship opportunities are offered?
A: Georgia’s MPA programs emphasize practical experience through internships, capstone projects, and service-learning opportunities. Students often work with state agencies in Atlanta, local governments across Georgia, or nonprofit organizations focused on community and economic development.
Q: What are some typical career paths for MPA graduates in Georgia?
A: Graduates often pursue careers as city or county managers, policy analysts, nonprofit executives, grant administrators, or program directors. Many work within Georgia’s extensive network of local governments, regional commissions, and nonprofit organizations, while others advance to leadership positions in state and federal agencies.
