Introduction
Obtaining a Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) in Indiana offers valuable opportunities due to the state’s focus on planning and development, strong networking opportunities, and diverse recreational activities. Indiana’s MPA programs emphasize skills and hands-on experiences, aligning with the state’s goal of fostering public service and community development.
Indiana is home to several reputable Master of Public Administration (MPA) programs, offering a range of specializations and flexible learning options to meet the needs of aspiring public administrators. Overall, there are 9 programs that offer a comprehensive MPA degree in the State of Indiana.
Key State Takeaways:
- Total MPA Programs Statewide: 9
- NASPAA-Accredited Programs: 4
- Annual Resident Tuition Average: $16,337 (PYR)
- Annual Non-Resident Tuition Average: $34,373 (PYR)
- Program Formats Offered: On-campus, online, hybrid
- Average Starting Salary: $49,900
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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 Indiana
Obtaining accreditation from the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) is a significant achievement for Master of Public Administration (MPA) programs. NASPAA accreditation signifies that a program meets high standards of quality and has undergone rigorous review by an independent body of experts. Of the 9 total MPA programs in the State of Indiana, 4 are accredited by NASPAA. Additional details on these programs can be found here:
Indiana University – Bloomington
- Bloomington, IN.
- 48 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
O’Neill School of Public Administration
Program Overview:
The Indiana University Bloomington O’Neill School’s MPA (technically Master of Public Affairs) is a 48-credit professional degree designed to prepare students for leadership in public, nonprofit, and policy arenas. The program is offered in multiple delivery formats: full-in-residence in Bloomington, fully online (100% asynchronous), and a hybrid Washington, D.C. Accelerator. It is structured for both early-career and experienced professionals, emphasizing flexibility, applied skills, and interdisciplinary policy & public management training.
Unique Components:
- Washington, D.C. Accelerator: Immersive experience for those who want hands-on exposure to federal policy environments.
- Concentration options: Multiple concentrations (e.g. Nonprofit Management; Policy Analysis; Environmental Policy & Sustainability; Public Management) allowing students to tailor based on interests and career goals.
- Accelerated Paths: Undergraduates at IU may participate in accelerated degree programs allowing some overlap of undergrad/graduate work under certain GPA and course completion criteria.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online, on-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 48
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $715 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,460 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 67%
- Enrollment: N/A
Other Considerations:
- Funding & Scholarships: 100% of residential Bloomington MPA students are considered for financial aid; competitive funding packages are available.
- Reputation & Rankings: The O’Neill School is widely recognized nationally; it is among top public affairs/public policy schools with strong rankings in specialty areas like Nonprofit Management and Environmental Policy.
Indiana University – Northwest
- Gary, IN.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
School of Public and Environmental Affairs (SPEA)
Program Overview:
Indiana University Northwest (IUN) offers a Master of Public Affairs (Public Affairs is the term they use rather than “MPA”), through its School of Public & Environmental Affairs (SPEA). The degree is 36 credit hours, consisting of a 27-credit core + 9 credit hours of concentration. The program is designed to train public, nonprofit, health, and governmental sector professionals in leadership, policy, and management, with flexibility for working professionals.
Unique Components:
- Concentration Options: Students choose one of four concentrations: Criminal Justice; Leadership; Health Services Administration & Social Change; Sustainability & Social Change.
- Core Curriculum: The required core courses include Quantitative Tools, Public Management, Statistical Analysis for Decision-Making, Public Finance & Budgeting, Administrative Ethics, Law & Public Affairs, and a Capstone + Workshop.
- Undergrad to Grad Accelerated Option: IUN has an accelerated Bachelor → Master of Public Affairs path where qualified undergrads may take graduate-level SPEA courses, up to 12 graduate credits applied toward the MPA, and the GRE requirement can be waived under certain criteria.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online, on-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Required
- Resident Tuition: $7,458 (PSR)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $16,550 (PSR)
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Enrollment: N/A
Other Considerations:
- The program is intended to be flexible for working students and those balancing other responsibilities; service learning and internships are available.
- Among graduates, ~31.5% enter City/State/Federal Government Jobs; ~31.5% Nonprofit/Private Sector; ~25% Other public affairs roles; ~12% continue study.
Indiana University – South Bend
- South Bend, IN.
- 39 Credit Hours
- Campus
Program:
School of Public Affairs
Program Overview:
Indiana University South Bend’s Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program (offered through the Department of Political Science in the College of Arts & Sciences) prepares students for leadership roles in government, nonprofit, health, and policy sectors. It focuses on both administration and policy, integrating analytical, managerial, and applied skills. Students may complete coursework in evenings, with select online options; there is emphasis on serving the Michiana region and beyond.
Unique Components:
- Concentrations: Students choose one of several concentrations: Government Administration & Policy; Health Systems Administration & Policy; Nonprofit Administration & Policy; Criminal Justice.
- Practicum / Internship / Experiential Credit: Up to 3 credit hours may be awarded for off-campus practicum/internship or professional work experience, with approval.
- Evening / Flexible Scheduling: The program is designed with working adult students in mind. Evening class offerings, select online courses, and flexibility in pacing.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 39
- GRE: Contingent on GPA
- Resident Tuition: $350 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $490 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- Enrollment: N/A
Other Considerations:
- There is no thesis requirement; instead a capstone project (“Capstone in Public Affairs”) is required.
- Transfer credits: up to 6 credit hours from other institutions may be transferred, subject to approval.
- Class size: Small class sizes (~15 students) allow for more interaction with faculty and peer learning.
Indiana University – Purdue (IND)
- 39 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
O’Neill School of Public & Environmental Affairs
Program Overview:
The O’Neill School of Public & Environmental Affairs at IUPUI offers a Master of Public Affairs (MPA) degree (often called “Public Affairs”) geared toward the public, nonprofit, and policy sectors. The program requires 39 credit hours, with core, concentration, and elective components. It is fully NASPAA-accredited. Student scheduling allows flexibility (full-time or part-time) to accommodate working professionals.
Unique Components:
- Concentrations: Students must pick a concentration and take specific required + elective credits for that concentration; e.g. Public Management and Nonprofit Management are among the offered areas.
- Flexible scheduling and modality: Because many students are part-time (65% part-time) and course offerings are designed to accommodate those balancing work and study.
- Executive MPA option: There is an Executive Master of Public Affairs variant, cohort-based, for employers or organizations, which can be delivered at IU Indianapolis or possibly at partner locations.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online, on-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 39
- GRE: Contingent on GPA
- Resident Tuition: $476 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,274 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Enrollment: 148 students
Other Considerations:
- Dual Degrees: There is a dual-degree option MPA-JD with the McKinney School of Law.
- Recent Institutional Change: Note that IUPUI has now officially split into separate institutions: Indiana University Indianapolis and Purdue University in Indianapolis. The O’Neill School is under IU Indianapolis post-split.
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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 Indiana, the O’Neill School at Indiana University offers one of the nation’s most prestigious NASPAA-accredited MPA programs, but non-accredited options across the state should not be overlooked. These programs often emphasize applied learning and partnerships with local governments and community organizations, giving students valuable hands-on experience and practical skills even without the NASPAA designation.
| Institution | Location | Accreditation | Credit Hours | Modality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ball State University | Muncie, IN | NCACSHLC | 39 | On-Campus |
| Indiana State University | Terre Haute, IN | NCACSHLC | 36 | Online |
| Indiana University, Kokomo | Kokomo, IN | NCACSHLC | 42 | Online/On- Campus |
| Indiana Wesleyan University – Marion | Marion, IN | NCACSHLC | 36 | Online |
| University of Southern Indiana | Evansville, IN | NCACSHLC | 36 | Online |
Career Outlook
Indiana offers unique public administration career opportunities, influenced by its diverse cities and cultural underpinnings. In the state capital of Indianapolis, opportunities abound in state government, with roles in policy analysis, program management, and government relations. Indianapolis is also home to numerous nonprofit organizations focused on areas such as healthcare, education, and community development, offering careers in nonprofit management and advocacy.
- State Government Roles in Indianapolis: Indianapolis serves as the state capital and hub for Indiana’s government. Careers in state government include roles such as Budget Analysts, who develop and manage the state budget, and Policy Analysts, who research and analyze policy issues for state agencies. Additionally, positions in State Agencies, such as the Indiana Department of Education or the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, offer opportunities for public administrators to work on issues specific to the state.
- Nonprofit Management in Indianapolis and Beyond: Indiana is home to a variety of nonprofit organizations focused on areas such as healthcare, education, and community development. Careers in Nonprofit Management include Executive Directors, who oversee the organization’s operations and strategic direction, and Program Managers, who manage specific programs and initiatives. These roles allow public administrators to make a meaningful impact in areas they are passionate about.
- Local Government Positions in South Bend: South Bend, home to the University of Notre Dame, offers careers in local government that are often influenced by the university’s initiatives and community development projects. Examples include City Planners, who work on urban development projects, and Community Development Specialists, who focus on improving neighborhoods and quality of life for residents. Additionally, roles in Economic Development, such as Economic Development Managers, are crucial for promoting business growth and job creation in the area.
- Public Affairs and Government Relations: With its diverse political landscape, Indiana offers opportunities in Public Affairs and Government Relations. Public Affairs Managers work to build relationships with elected officials and community stakeholders to advocate for policies that benefit their organization or community. Government Relations Specialists focus on influencing public policy and legislation at the local, state, and federal levels.
Culturally, Indiana’s strong sense of community and Midwestern values shape public administration careers in the state. Careers in public service are often viewed as opportunities to make a tangible impact on communities and improve quality of life for residents.
The politics of Indiana, which tends to lean conservative, influence public administration careers in areas such as policy implementation, budget management, and government efficiency. Understanding and navigating the political landscape is key for public administrators in Indiana, particularly in roles that require working with elected officials and community stakeholders.
All MPA Programs in Indiana
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is Indiana known for any particular strengths in MPA education?
A: Yes. The O’Neill School at Indiana University is one of the most highly ranked public affairs schools in the country, with strong programs in public management, environmental policy, and nonprofit leadership. Its national reputation attracts students from across the U.S. and abroad.
Q: Can I complete an MPA online in Indiana?
A: Yes. Indiana State University and Purdue Fort Wayne offer online or hybrid formats. IU also provides flexible options, making it possible for working professionals to earn the degree remotely while maintaining their careers.
Q: What kinds of concentrations are available in Indiana MPA programs?
A: Concentration areas vary by institution but often include nonprofit management, local government administration, policy analysis, criminal justice, and environmental management. IU’s O’Neill School is especially noted for integrating public affairs with environmental and sustainability studies.
Q: How do Indiana MPA programs connect with state and local government?
A: Programs emphasize applied learning through internships and capstone projects. Students frequently work with the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis, city governments across the state, or nonprofit organizations in areas like healthcare, housing, and community development.
Q: What career paths are common for MPA graduates in Indiana?
A: Graduates often become city managers, nonprofit directors, policy analysts, or budget and finance officers. Indiana’s mix of urban centers like Indianapolis and smaller towns across the state provides a range of career opportunities in both metropolitan and rural governance.
Q: Are accelerated or dual-degree pathways offered in Indiana?
A: Yes. Indiana University offers dual-degree programs that combine the MPA with law (JD), environmental science (MSES), and other fields. Some institutions also provide “4+1” accelerated programs, enabling undergraduates to complete both a bachelor’s and MPA in about five years.
