Introduction
Attaining an MPA degree in Illinois opens doors to fulfilling managerial careers within the public sector, nonprofit organizations, and private entities engaged in partnerships 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. These concentrations tie directly into job opportunities in Illinois at the state, county, and local levels of government.
Key State Takeaways:
- Total MPA Programs Statewide: 11
- NASPAA-Accredited Programs: 7
- Annual Resident Tuition Average: $780 (PCH)
- Annual Non-Resident Tuition Average: $1,499 (PCH)
- Program Formats Offered: Online, hybrid, on-campus
- Average Starting Salary: $67,500 (per year)
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 Illinois
For an MPA (Master of Public Administration) student in Illinois, it’s important to pursue a degree accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA). NASPAA accreditation is a sign of quality and adherence to high academic standards in public administration.
Currently, 7 institutions in Illinois hold NASPAA accreditation for their MPA programs, demonstrating their commitment to quality education and industry standards. This accreditation serves as a reliable indicator for prospective students, affirming program relevance and providing a strong foundation for a career in public administration. The following is an overview of the 7 NASPAA-accredited institutions in Illinois.
DePaul University
- Chicago, IL.
- 52 Credit Hours
- Online + Hybrid + Campus
Program:
School of Public Service (SPS)
Program Overview:
DePaul University’s NASPAA-accredited MPA program, offered through the School of Public Service, is one of Chicago’s most respected and career-focused public affairs degrees. Known for its strong ties to local government and nonprofit organizations, DePaul’s MPA emphasizes ethical leadership, urban policy, and applied management. Students benefit from a downtown Chicago location, practitioner faculty, and flexible course delivery that accommodates working professionals. The program is ranked among the top MPA programs in Illinois for accessibility, career outcomes, and public service networking, making it an excellent choice for those seeking advancement in city management, emergency administration, and nonprofit leadership.
Unique Components:
- Specialized Concentrations: The MPA offers distinct concentration options—such as Public Management, Metropolitan Planning and Urban Affairs, Emergency Management, and International Public Management—allowing students to tailor their studies toward specific policy and administrative interests.
- Downtown Chicago Location: DePaul’s Loop Campus situates students in the heart of Chicago’s civic and nonprofit ecosystem, providing immediate access to internship placements, professional organizations, and networking opportunities with local government leaders.
- Flexible Scheduling for Working Professionals: Courses are offered in the evenings and online to accommodate full-time professionals, making it possible for students to balance work and graduate study.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online, hybrid, on-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 52 (quarter hours)
- GRE: Not required
- Tuition: $735 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Enrollment: 80-100 students
Other Considerations:
- Ethics and Social Justice Focus: The program’s mission emphasizes social justice and ethical public service grounded in DePaul’s Vincentian values, fostering leaders who prioritize equity and civic engagement in their administrative decisions.
- Applied Learning and Capstone Experience: Students complete a capstone course focused on real-world problem-solving, integrating research and policy analysis to address practical issues for public and nonprofit organizations.
Governors State University
- University Park, IL.
- 39 Credit Hours
- Online, Hybrid + Campus
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Governors State University’s NASPAA-accredited MPA program offers one of the most affordable and flexible public administration degrees in Illinois, tailored for working professionals in the Chicago Southland region. Designed with a focus on applied learning and career advancement, the program equips students with the management and policy skills necessary for success in local government, human services, and nonprofit leadership. Small class sizes, experienced faculty, and hybrid learning options make GSU’s MPA an excellent choice for public sector employees seeking advancement without interrupting their professional careers.
Unique Components:
- NASPAA-Accredited Program: Governors State’s MPA is fully accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), ensuring it meets the highest national standards in public service education.
- Flexible Learning Options: The program offers both on-campus and online courses, accommodating the needs of full-time professionals and students with varying schedules.
- Small Class Sizes and Faculty Engagement: With a low student-to-faculty ratio, MPA students benefit from personalized attention, mentorship, and opportunities to collaborate closely with experienced faculty practitioners.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online, hybrid, on-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 39
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $353 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $708 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Enrollment: 60-80 students
Other Considerations:
- Capstone Project with Applied Community Impact: The culminating capstone experience allows students to apply management and policy analysis skills to a real-world organizational challenge, often benefiting local government or nonprofit partners.
Northern Illinois University
- Dekalb, IL.
- 39-42 Credit Hours
- Online + Hybrid + Campus
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Northern Illinois University’s NASPAA-accredited MPA, offered through the Department of Public Administration, is one of the top-ranked local government management programs in the nation. NIU is widely recognized for its longstanding municipal management focus, high placement rates in city and county administration, and executive-format delivery that serves both pre-service and mid-career professionals. With a strong alumni presence throughout Illinois and the Midwest, NIU’s MPA offers unparalleled professional networking and a proven path to public management leadership.
Unique Components:
- Nationally Ranked and Regionally Respected: NIU’s MPA consistently ranks among the top programs in the nation for local government management, reflecting its deep connections with municipalities and regional agencies.
- Specialization in Local Government Management: The program is widely recognized for producing city managers and administrators, with many alumni holding leadership positions in Illinois municipalities and beyond.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online, hybrid, on-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 39-42
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $416 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $822 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 60%
- Enrollment: 100-120 students
Other Considerations:
- Strong Internship and Alumni Network: The program maintains one of the largest internship pipelines in Illinois, connecting students to real-world experiences in local and state government, supported by an active alumni mentoring network.
- Cohort-Based Learning and Professional Development: NIU’s cohort model fosters collaboration, professional growth, and lasting peer networks among students who often advance together into public sector leadership roles.
Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville
- Edwardsville, IL.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Campus + Online + Hybrid
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s NASPAA-accredited MPA program combines flexibility, affordability, and professional relevance for students across the St. Louis metropolitan region. Known for its applied, real-world curriculum, SIUE’s MPA can be completed fully online or in a hybrid format—and in as little as one year for full-time students. The program’s emphasis on leadership, budgeting, and organizational change prepares graduates for roles in local government, nonprofit management, and emergency services, making it one of the most adaptable public administration degrees in the Midwest.
Unique Components:
- Flexible Class Formats: Courses are offered in evening, hybrid, and online formats, allowing students to balance professional and academic commitments while completing the degree on their own schedule.
- Regional Engagement Opportunities: Located just outside St. Louis, SIUE provides students with access to professional internships, public service projects, and employment opportunities across a dynamic metro region.
- Applied Research and Capstone Experience: The program culminates in an applied research project or capstone course that allows students to apply policy analysis and management skills to real-world administrative challenges.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus, online, hybrid
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $379 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $787 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 67%
- Enrollment: 50-70 students
Other Considerations:
- Emphasis on Ethical and Accountable Governance: The curriculum prioritizes accountability, transparency, and ethical decision-making to prepare graduates for responsible public sector leadership.
University of Illinois – Chicago
- Chicago, IL.
- 54 Credit Hours
- Campus + Hybrid + Online
Program:
College of Urban Planning and Public Affairs (CUPPA)
Program Overview:
The University of Illinois Chicago’s MPA, offered through the College of Urban Planning and Public Affairs (CUPPA), is one of the highest-ranked public administration programs in Illinois and the Midwest. Combining the resources of a major research university with the practical experience of Chicago’s public sector, UIC’s MPA provides students with advanced management, finance, and policy skills. With on-campus and fully online options, the program serves both emerging and mid-career professionals. UIC’s location, employer partnerships, and nationally recognized faculty make it a premier destination for students pursuing leadership roles in public service.
Unique Components:
- Nationally Ranked Urban-Focused Program: Consistently ranked among the top public administration programs in the U.S., UIC’s MPA is recognized for its strengths in urban management, local government, and public finance.
- Concentrations Tailored to Career Goals: Students can specialize in areas such as Public Management, Financial Management, Nonprofit Management, Urban Governance and Leadership, and Public Policy to align with their professional interests.
- Urban Policy and Governance Emphasis: Leveraging Chicago’s position as a living laboratory for public service, students engage with real-world policy challenges in metropolitan planning, social equity, and government performance.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus, hybrid, online
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 54 (semester hours)
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $523 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,079 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Enrollment: 120-150 students
Other Considerations:
- Flexible Scheduling for Professionals: UIC offers evening and online courses to accommodate both full-time students and mid-career professionals balancing work and study.
- Applied Capstone and Internship Experience: The MPA culminates in a capstone project or internship, allowing students to apply their skills to address practical issues in public and nonprofit organizations across the Chicago region.
Southern Illinois University – Carbondale
- Carbondale, IL.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Campus + Online + Hybrid
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—housed within the School of Analytics, Finance, and Economics in the College of Business and Analytics—prepares students for leadership roles in government, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector. Located in a research-oriented, student-centered university, the program benefits from small class sizes, faculty mentorship, and flexible learning options designed for both pre-service and mid-career professionals. Students also gain access to real-world learning opportunities through internships and applied projects with public agencies and nonprofits across southern Illinois and beyond.
Unique Components:
- Interdisciplinary Curriculum with Data Emphasis: The program integrates courses in public budgeting, policy evaluation, and data analytics, preparing graduates to make evidence-based administrative and policy decisions.
- Internship and Applied Project Options: Students may complete an internship or applied research project, gaining valuable hands-on experience in local, state, or federal government or nonprofit management.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus, online, hybrid
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $427 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,089 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- Enrollment: 60-80 students
Other Considerations:
- Affordable Tuition and Regional Accessibility: As one of the most affordable NASPAA-accredited MPA programs in Illinois, SIU Carbondale offers excellent value for both in-state and out-of-state students seeking career advancement in public service.
University of Illinois – Springfield
- Springfield, IL.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Campus + Online + Hybrid
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
The University of Illinois Springfield’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the School of Public Management and Policy within the College of Public Affairs and Education—is one of the most respected and accessible public administration programs in the state. The UIS MPA program emphasizes civic engagement, data-driven management, and social responsibility, blending classroom learning with practical field experience. Its flexible course options, affordability, and NASPAA accreditation make it an ideal choice for both pre-service students beginning their careers and seasoned professionals seeking to advance in government or nonprofit leadership.
Unique Components:
- Capital City Advantage: Situated in Springfield—the heart of Illinois state government—UIS offers students unparalleled access to internships, fellowships, and professional networking within legislative, executive, and nonprofit institutions.
- Applied Learning and Internship Opportunities: UIS’s strong ties to state and local government create valuable opportunities for hands-on learning through internships, the Graduate Public Service Internship (GPSI) program, and nonprofit partnerships.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus, online, hybrid
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $379 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $792 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Enrollment: 150-180 students
Other Considerations:
- Focus on Ethics, Accountability, and Public Service Values: The UIS MPA curriculum emphasizes integrity, diversity, and transparency—core values that define effective, accountable governance.
- Flexible Learning Options: Students can complete the program fully online, on campus, or in a hybrid format—making it one of Illinois’ most flexible MPA programs for working 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
In Illinois, NASPAA-accredited programs at institutions like the University of Illinois at Chicago, Northern Illinois University, and DePaul University are highly respected, but non-accredited MPA options across the state also deserve consideration. These programs emphasize practical leadership, budgeting, and policy skills that are directly applicable to careers in Illinois’ municipal and regional agencies:
| Institution | Location | Accreditation | Credit Hours | Modality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adler University | Chicago, IL | NCACSHLC | 36 | Online |
| Illinois Institute of Technology | Chicago, IL | NCACSHLC | 33 | On-Campus |
| National Louis University | Chicago, IL | NCACSHLC | 36 | Online/On- Campus |
| Northwestern University | Evanston, IL | NCACSHLC | 39 | Online/On- Campus |
| Aurora University | Aurora, IL | NCACSHLC | 36 | Online |
Illinois Institute of Technology
- Chicago, IL.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Campus + Hybrid
Program:
Stuart School of Business
Program Overview:
The Illinois Institute of Technology’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Stuart School of Business—provides a distinctive, technology-driven approach to public sector leadership. Designed for the modern era of governance, the IIT MPA integrates traditional public administration principles with data analytics, financial management, and performance-based decision-making. The program emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation within government and nonprofit organizations, reflecting Chicago’s growing reputation as a hub for civic technology and policy innovation. Students benefit from small class sizes, experienced practitioner faculty, and a curriculum that bridges management, analytics, and policy.
Unique Components:
- Technology-Infused Public Administration Curriculum: The program combines core public management skills with coursework in data analytics, financial modeling, and performance management—preparing graduates for tech-enabled governance.
- STEM-Driven Policy Education: Illinois Tech integrates its strong STEM foundation into the MPA, giving students a unique edge in fields like smart city management, data-informed policy, and digital service delivery.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus, hybrid
- Accreditation: N/A
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Not required
- Tuition: $1,614 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Enrollment: 40-60 students
Other Considerations:
- Flexible Part-Time and Evening Options: Courses are designed to accommodate working professionals through flexible scheduling and part-time study options.
- Applied Capstone Project: The program culminates with a capstone experience that challenges students to apply management and analytical tools to solve complex public or nonprofit organizational problems.
Career Outlook
Graduates with an MPA (Master of Public Administration) in Illinois can pursue a range of unique and impactful careers, given the state’s dynamic public administration landscape. In Springfield, the state capital, opportunities abound within the state government. Graduates can engage in various roles within state agencies, contributing to policy development, program management, and administrative functions:
- State Policy Analyst: Work within state government agencies, analyzing policies, and contributing to the development of effective public programs and initiatives.
- Federal Program Specialist: Engage in federal initiatives by working in agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the Department of Health and Human Services, contributing to national programs while being based in Chicago.
- Economic Development Coordinator: Play a key role in fostering economic growth in the suburban areas surrounding Chicago, collaborating with local businesses, government agencies, and community organizations.
- Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Planner: Work on strategic planning, transportation projects, and regional development efforts within MPOs, contributing to the overall sustainability and growth of specific geographic areas.
- Public Affairs Specialist: Join communications teams in government agencies, nonprofits, or corporations, managing public relations, crafting messaging, and engaging with stakeholders to promote transparency and understanding.
- Community Development Manager: Contribute to the enhancement of local communities by managing and implementing development projects, affordable housing initiatives, and neighborhood revitalization programs.
- Legislative Analyst: Provide research and analysis support to legislators, contributing to the legislative process by evaluating proposed policies and providing recommendations.
All MPA Programs in Illinois
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I earn an MPA online in Illinois?
A: Yes. Several Illinois universities provide fully online or hybrid MPA programs designed for working professionals. Northern Illinois University and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville offer flexible online and evening formats, while others, like DePaul University, provide weekend or part-time options that make it possible to balance graduate studies with a full-time career.
Q: How long does it take to complete an MPA program in Illinois?
A: Most MPA programs in Illinois require between 36 and 42 credit hours and can be completed in about two years of full-time study. Part-time students—especially those employed full time—typically finish in three to four years depending on course load and scheduling options.
Q: What concentrations or specializations are available in Illinois MPA programs?
A: Common concentrations include nonprofit management, local government administration, public finance, human resource management, and urban policy. Universities like Northern Illinois and UIC also offer specializations in areas such as performance management, metropolitan planning, and emergency management.
Q: What kinds of experiential learning opportunities are offered?
A: Illinois MPA programs emphasize applied learning through internships, capstone projects, and partnerships with government and nonprofit organizations. Students often work with municipalities, regional planning agencies, and advocacy groups throughout the Chicago metropolitan area and across the state.
Q: What career paths do MPA graduates in Illinois typically pursue?
A: Graduates frequently move into roles such as city manager, policy analyst, nonprofit executive, budget officer, or program administrator. Illinois’ mix of urban, suburban, and rural communities creates a wide range of public service opportunities at the municipal, county, and state levels.
Q: Are accelerated or dual-degree pathways available in Illinois?
A: Yes. Several universities offer accelerated “4+1” programs that allow undergraduates to earn both a bachelor’s and MPA degree in about five years. Others provide dual-degree options combining the MPA with law (JD), public health (MPH), or business (MBA), offering broader interdisciplinary training for students seeking leadership roles in complex public systems.
