Masters in Public Administration Programs in the State of Indiana

Cole Neder

Cole Neder

Updated & Fact Checked: 07.16.2024

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.

Networking opportunities in Indiana are abundant, with access to government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and industry professionals. The state’s commitment to planning and development provides MPA students with valuable experiential learning opportunities and potential career paths in areas such as urban planning, economic development, and policy.

Indiana’s cultural scene and natural beauty offer a variety of recreational activities. From exploring the Indiana Dunes National Park to visiting museums and cultural attractions in Indianapolis, there’s always something new to discover.

Additionally, Indiana’s MPA programs often emphasize practical skills and hands-on experiences, aligning with the state’s goals of fostering effective public service and community development. The state’s strong academic institutions provide a supportive environment for MPA students to excel in their studies and build a strong professional network.

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  • NASPAA Accredited
  • No GRE Required
  • 100% Online
  • Scholarships Available

American University

Online Master’s in Public Administration and Policy


American University’s nationally recognized and NASPAA-accredited master’s in public administration provides students with a master’s-level understanding of modern governance from an award-winning faculty working and teaching in the heart of government, Washington, D.C.

  • Fully Online or Hybrid
  • Top Ranked
  • No GRE/GMAT

Ohio University

Online & Hybrid Master of Public Administration Degrees


Ohio University’s MPA programs equip graduates for leadership roles in government, nonprofit organizations, and the public sector. Concentrations include:

  • 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:

MPA Programs in Indiana

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. For example, the MPA program at IU Northwest is designed for working professionals and offers concentrations in Criminal Justice, Leadership (public administration), Health Services Administration and Social Change, and Sustainability and Social Change.

The O’Neill School at IUPUI offers an MPA program that prepares students for leadership roles in public and nonprofit organizations. The program emphasizes management and planning skills, and students can choose from concentrations in areas such as Public Management and Policy, Nonprofit Management, and Health Management.

Overall, there are 9 programs that offer a comprehensive MPA degree in the State of Indiana. An overview of these programs- including location, accreditation, credit hours, and modality- can be found here:

NASPAA-accredited MPA Programs

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.

The program conducts a comprehensive self-assessment to evaluate its compliance with NASPAA’s accreditation standards. This self-study involves gathering data, analyzing performance, and identifying areas for improvement. Based on the self-assessment, the program prepares a detailed report that documents its compliance with NASPAA standards. The report includes evidence to support the program’s claims and recommendations for improvement.

Following the site visit, the peer review team submits a report to NASPAA’s Commission on Peer Review and Accreditation (COPRA). COPRA evaluates the report and makes a recommendation regarding accreditation. Accreditation ensures that students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for successful careers in public service.

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
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: NASPAA, NCACSHLC

Modality: Online/On-Campus

Credit Hours: 48

GRE: Contingent on GPA

Resident Tuition: $6,567 (PSR)

Non-Resident Tuition: $16,474 (PSR)

Program Overview:
The O’Neill School offers an MPA program with a strong foundation in 50 years of growth and scholarship, ranking among the best programs in the field. The program boasts a high employment or continuing education rate of 98% for its 2021-22 residential master’s students. It offers flexibility with in-residence, online, and D.C. Accelerator options, allowing students to tailor their education.

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Indiana University, Northwest

  • Gary, IN
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: NASPAA, NCACSHLC

Modality: Online/On-Campus

Credit Hours: 36

GRE: Required

Resident Tuition: $7,458 (PSR)

Non-Resident Tuition: $16,550 (PSR)

Program Overview:
The MPA offers four concentrations—Criminal Justice, Leadership (public administration), Health Services Administration and Social Change, and Sustainability and Social Change—and can lead to careers in government, public administration, health, nonprofits, and more, as well as advancement to supervisory, managerial, and administrative roles in both public and private sectors.

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Indiana University, South Bend

  • South Bend, IN
  • Campus

Accreditation: NASPAA, NCACSHLC

Modality: On-Campus

Credit Hours: 39

GRE: Contingent on GPA

Resident Tuition: $350 (PCH)

Non-Resident Tuition: $490 (PCH)

Program Overview:
The MPA program at Indiana University South Bend, established in 1972, is known for training leaders in public organizations. It emphasizes rigorous study, innovative research, and a commitment to public service, with over 700 graduates primarily remaining in the Michiana area. Completion takes about two years and includes evening and online classes, with a focus on practical experience, small class sizes, and close faculty interaction.

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Indiana University – Purdue University (IND)

  • Indianapolis, IN
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: NASPAA, NCACSHLC

Modality: Online/On-Campus

Credit Hours: 39

GRE: Contingent on GPA

Resident Tuition: $476 (PCH)

Non-Resident Tuition: $1,274 (PCH)

Program Overview:
The Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program at the O’Neill School at IUPUI focuses on advancing understanding of public, private, and nonprofit organizations serving the public interest. This 39-credit hour program emphasizes professional practice and prepares students for leadership roles in legal, management, financial, and budgetary areas in the public and nonprofit sectors. The program is accredited by NASPAA and offers various concentrations and elective options.

More Details

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  • NASPAA Accredited
  • No GRE Required
  • 100% Online
  • Scholarships Available

American University

Online Master’s in Public Administration and Policy


American University’s nationally recognized and NASPAA-accredited master’s in public administration provides students with a master’s-level understanding of modern governance from an award-winning faculty working and teaching in the heart of government, Washington, D.C.

  • Fully Online or Hybrid
  • Top Ranked
  • No GRE/GMAT

Ohio University

Online & Hybrid Master of Public Administration Degrees


Ohio University’s MPA programs equip graduates for leadership roles in government, nonprofit organizations, and the public sector. Concentrations include:

  • 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:

Online MPA Programs

An online-only MPA degree in Indiana offers several advantages that make it particularly attractive to prospective students. Firstly, the flexibility of an online format allows students to balance their studies with work and other commitments, making it ideal for working professionals seeking career advancement.

Additionally, an online MPA program provides access to top-notch faculty and coursework without the need to relocate or commute, saving both time and money. The online format also fosters a diverse and inclusive learning environment, as students from various locations and backgrounds can collaborate and learn from each other.

Finally, an online MPA degree offers the same rigorous curriculum and accreditation as traditional on-campus programs, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles in public service. There are 7 programs in the State of Indiana that offer an online-only MPA degree option. 3 of those programs are NASPAA-accredited, and the remaining 4 are shown here:

Indiana State University

  • Terre Haute, IN
  • Online

Accreditation: NCACSHLC

Modality: Online

Credit Hours: 36

GRE: Not required

Resident Tuition: $450 (PCH)

Non-Resident Tuition: $585 (PCH)

Program Overview:
Indiana State University offers an online Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) designed for working professionals in public or nonprofit organizations seeking career advancement. While it can be completed in just over two years full-time or about three years part-time, students have up to seven years to finish. Up to 9 credit hours can be transferred, and elective concentrations are available in public policy, nonprofit leadership, criminology/criminal justice, human resources development, and public health.

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Indiana University, Kokomo

  • Kokomo, IN
  • Online + Campus

Accreditation: NCACSHLC

Modality: Online/On-Campus

Credit Hours: 42

GRE: Contingent on GPA

Resident Tuition: $350 (PCH)

Non-Resident Tuition: $455 (PCH)

Program Overview:
The M.P.M. program at Indiana University Kokomo offers a dynamic and challenging classroom experience, with diverse peers and professors enriching the learning environment. The program aims to challenge students to specialize and grow, with a focus on practical application of skills through the Practicum in Public Affairs course. Students can choose between two tracks: Public Management and Policy, or Health Management, with the option to pursue a double track in both areas.

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Accreditation: NCACSHLC

Modality: Online

Credit Hours: 36

GRE: Not required

Tuition: $559 (PCH)

Program Overview:
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) is a fully online program designed to enhance your impact in your community by developing management and planning skills for public service careers. The program offers specializations in criminal justice, non-profit leadership, and public management, allowing you to tailor your education to your interests. With a focus on topics like public policy and non-profit fundraising, the MPA can be completed in approximately 18 months, positioning you for advancement in government, non-profit, or criminal justice sectors.

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University of Southern Indiana

  • Evansville, IN
  • Online

Accreditation: NCACSHLC

Modality: Online

Credit Hours: 36

GRE: Not required

Tuition: $410 (PCH)

Program Overview:
The University of Southern Indiana offers an online Master of Public Administration program designed to enhance your management skills and leadership abilities in public and nonprofit administration. The program focuses on foundational knowledge, data analysis, and practical skills necessary for ethical and innovative public administration. Through hands-on projects with community members, you’ll gain real-life experiences to tackle current economic, social, and political challenges, making a difference in your community.

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Accelerated MPA Programs

An accelerated MPA program can be highly advantageous for students in Indiana, particularly for those looking to quickly advance their careers in public administration. These programs typically allow students to complete their degree in a shorter time frame than traditional programs, often within 12 to 18 months. This is particularly beneficial for working individuals who may not be able to commit to a full-time, two-year program.

Many accelerated MPA programs also offer an executive track option, which is specifically designed for mid-career professionals looking to enhance their leadership skills and expand their career opportunities. These programs typically offer a flexible schedule and a curriculum tailored to the needs of experienced professionals, allowing them to balance their professional and academic commitments effectively.

Indiana Wesleyan University offers an accelerated program where full-time students can stack classes and finish their degree in 18 months. At Indiana University in Bloomington, undergraduates can tailor their coursework to combine with their graduate MPA degree and finish in one less year. Prospective working students can also use their work experience as a way to reduce credit requirements.

Affordable MPA Programs

Tuition affordability is crucial for students seeking MPA programs in Indiana, particularly due to the state’s cost of living and the importance of managing tuition costs effectively. Indiana has a relatively low cost of living compared to many other states, making it an attractive option for students. However, even with a lower cost of living, managing tuition costs is still a significant consideration for students, especially those pursuing graduate degrees like an MPA.

Indiana offers several grant programs to help students with financial need cover tuition costs. The Frank O’Bannon Grant and the 21st Century Scholars Program are examples of state-funded grants that can significantly reduce the cost of education for eligible students.

Indiana University, Purdue University, and other universities in the state offer various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs, to help students cover tuition costs. Students can explore these options through their university’s financial aid office or website.

Indiana University in South Bend offers tuition at $350 per credit hour for state residents and $490 per credit hour for non-state residents. Resident tuition at Indiana University in Bloomington is also relatively competitive, at $6,567 per semester. Finally, Southern Indiana University offers online-only tuition at $410 per credit hour for both residents and non-residents.

All MPA Programs in Indiana

School NameDegree Program NameStateCityNASPAA AccreditedOnline DegreeProgram Link
Ball State UniversityMaster Of Public AdministrationIndianaMuncieNoNohttps://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/political-science/academic-programs/masters/public-administration
Indiana State UniversityMaster Of Public AdministrationIndianaTerre HauteNoNohttps://www.indstate.edu/academics/graduate/masters/mpa
Indiana University South BendMaster Of Public AffairsIndianaSouth BendNoYeshttps://clas.iusb.edu/public-affairs/index.html
Indiana University, BloomingtonMaster Of Public AffairsIndianaBloomingtonYesYeshttps://oneill.indiana.edu/
Indiana University, NorthwestMaster Of Public AffairsIndianaGaryNoYeshttps://northwest.iu.edu/spea/graduate/master-of-public-affairs.html
Indiana University-Purdue University IndianapolisMaster Of Public AffairsIndianaIndianapolisNoYeshttps://publichealth.indiana.edu/masters/degrees-majors/mph/index.html
Purdue University Fort WayneMaster Of Public AffairsIndianaFort WayneNoNohttps://www.purdue.edu/gradschool/prospective/gradrequirements/fortwayne/policy-pfw.html
Purdue University Fort WayneMaster Of Public ManagementIndianaFort WayneNoNohttps://www.purdue.edu/gradschool/prospective/gradrequirements/fortwayne/policy-pfw.html
University of Southern IndianaMaster Of Public AdministrationIndianaEvansvilleNoNohttps://www.usi.edu/online-learning/online-programs/master-of-public-administration

What Types of Careers Can I Pursue With an MPA Degree in Indiana?

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.

In South Bend, home to the University of Notre Dame, public administration careers often intersect with the university’s initiatives and community development projects. Positions in local government, economic development, and education administration are common in South Bend.

  • 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.