In recent years, the landscape of Master of Public Administration (MPA) education has experienced a notable shift, with the rise of online-only MPA graduate programs gaining momentum. This trend has been particularly accentuated since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, as the demand for flexible and accessible learning options has surged. Consequently, more schools, already holding accreditation from NASPAA (Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration), are expanding their MPA degree options to include online-only formats.
While the convenience and flexibility of online programs are apparent and respond to the evolving needs of students, it is important to underscore the significance of prioritizing institutions accredited by NASPAA. This blog post aims to delve into the dynamics of the increasing prevalence of online-only MPA programs, explore the factors influencing this shift, especially in light of the pandemic, and emphasize the enduring significance of NASPAA accreditation in guiding prospective students towards reputable and high-quality MPA education.
NASPAA Accreditation Overview
The NASPAA accreditation process is a thorough evaluation designed to maintain high standards in public service education. It begins with an eligibility assessment to determine if institutions meet the basic criteria for NASPAA accreditation. The process involves institutions conducting a self-study, examining programs, faculty, and resources, and detailing how they align with NASPAA’s accreditation criteria.
NASPAA accreditation involves a thorough evaluation of an institution’s programs, faculty, and infrastructure. The accreditation process for online institutions adheres to the same high standards as traditional on-campus programs. Institutions seeking NASPAA accreditation must demonstrate a commitment to providing a comprehensive education in public administration, incorporating core competencies such as policy analysis, ethics, and leadership.
The peer review process, carried out by experienced professionals in public administration education, evaluates aspects like the institution’s mission, governance, curriculum, faculty qualifications, and student services. The Commission on Peer Review and Accreditation (COPRA) reviews the self-study report and site visit report, making a decision on accreditation.
Online-only programs accredited by NASPAA meet specific criteria tailored to the nature of distance education. The requirements address issues like faculty engagement, interactive learning environments, and effective use of technology to deliver course content. Online institutions must demonstrate that their programs provide an equivalent and high-quality educational experience to on-campus offerings.
NASPAA-Accredited Online MPA Programs
The perks of obtaining an MPA from a NASPAA-accredited online-only institution are numerous. Students benefit from the flexibility of online learning, allowing them to pursue advanced education while maintaining work and personal commitments. The accreditation ensures that the online program maintains the same educational standards and outcomes as traditional programs, providing students with a reputable and recognized credential.
NASPAA accreditation ensures the quality and integrity of MPA programs, whether delivered online or on-campus. Choosing an online-only institution accredited by NASPAA offers the flexibility of remote learning without compromising the credibility and standards associated with a reputable public administration education. This option provides a pathway for individuals to advance their careers in public service while enjoying the benefits of online education. Below is a summary of each NASPAA-accredited MPA program that offers an online-only learning option:
- PC: Per Credit
- PY: Per Year
- PS: Per Semester
Augusta University
- Augusta, GA
Credit Hours: 36
Resident Tuition: $2,752 (PS)
Non-Resident Tuition: $9,386 (PS)
Program Overview:
This program stands out as one of the most affordable MPA degrees in the South and boasts a stellar track record in career placement. Offering a supportive environment for both students and faculty, it features a flexible plan of study and extensive opportunities for collaboration with community partners through its alumni network and the scholarly publication, the Journal of Public Affairs Education.
Georgia College & State
- Milledgeville, GA
Credit Hours: 36
Resident Tuition: $3,074 (PS)
Non-Resident Tuition: $3,074 (PS)
Program Overview:
The Department of Government and Sociology comprises 25 committed faculty and staff fostering a student-centered learning environment for intellectual excellence. Faculty, recognized for teaching and research, work closely with students, promoting academic quality and lifelong learning.
Georgia Southern University
- Statesboro, GA
Credit Hours: 39
Resident Tuition: $4,986 (PS)
Non-Resident Tuition: $19,890 (PS)
Program Overview:
Georgia Southern University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) is a NASPAA-accredited program tailored for public sector and nonprofit management. It offers comprehensive training in budgeting, finance, policy analysis, strategic management, and more.
Savannah State University
- Location
- Campus
Credit Hours: 36
Resident Tuition: $2,343 (PS)
Non-Resident Tuition: $8,709 (PS)
Program Overview:
Students must complete 36 credit hours, including core courses, electives, internship, and capstone defense. Program duration varies. Classes offered in-person, hybrid, or online, often in the evenings. Electives cater to public administration and city management interests. Optional tracks are available.
University of West Georgia
- Carrollton, GA
Credit Hours: 36
Resident Tuition: $4,699 (PS)
Non-Resident Tuition: $14,197 (PS)
Program Overview:
The University of West Georgia’s Master of Public Administration Program bridges academic study with practical administration, catering to current public servants or those aspiring to careers in government or nonprofits.
Valdosta State University
- Valdosta, GA
Credit Hours: 36
Resident Tuition: $3,860 (PS)
Non-Resident Tuition: $11,796 (PS)
Program Overview:
The web-based curriculum of this program enables remote learning at in-state tuition rates, accommodating personal and professional commitments. Accredited by NASPAA, it’s ranked in the Top 10 for online MPA programs.
Oregon State University
- Corvallis, OR
Credit Hours: 54
Resident Tuition: $498 (PC)
Non-Resident Tuition: $1,087 (PC)
Program Overview:
OSU hosts leading scientists addressing 21st-century challenges affecting global citizens. Through interdisciplinary studies, the MPP program integrates pioneering science into policies and practices, influencing local, regional, and international decisions.
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
Credit Hours: 42
Resident Tuition: $3,327 (PS)
Non-Resident Tuition: $10,746 (PS)
Program Overview:
This program empowers individuals to enact change, ensuring public good and social justice. Students learn to manage public sector programs, analyze data for insights, and lead diverse organizations toward positive societal impact.
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
Credit Hours: 42
Resident Tuition: $13,977 (PS)
Non-Resident Tuition: $18,891 (PS)
Program Overview:
FIU’s MPA program equips students for public service careers, with over 3500 alumni holding positions across public, nonprofit, and private sectors. NASPAA-accredited and ranked 9th in online MPAs nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
Florida Atlantic University
- Boca Raton, FL
Credit Hours: 36
Resident Tuition: $3,346 (PS)
Non-Resident Tuition: $9,240 (PS)
Program Overview:
Florida Atlantic University’s MPA program aims to prepare students as leaders, managers, and analysts for government roles in southeast Florida. With a customizable curriculum, diversity is valued, and inclusivity is fostered, while emphasizing ethical competence and advancing knowledge through research collaborations.
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, FL
Credit Hours: 42
Resident Tuition: $3,632 (PS)
Non-Resident Tuition: $9,044 (PS)
Program Overview:
The Askew School’s MPA program is NASPAA-accredited and highly regarded, consistently earning praise from accreditation reviews and U.S. News and World Report. It’s ranked as the top program in Florida and top 5 in the Southeast, and third globally in research productivity.
Nova Southeastern University
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
Credit Hours: 36
Tuition: $9,513 (PS)
Program Overview:
The NSU Edge offers opportunities to become a change agent, enhancing lives and communities locally and nationally. Nova Southeastern University’s MPA program focuses on state, local, and nonprofit management, providing a practical curriculum and experienced faculty to prepare graduates for leadership roles.
CUNY Baruch College
- New York City, NY
Credit Hours: 42
Resident Tuition: $6,375 (PS)
Non-Resident Tuition: $12,120 (PS)
Program Overview:
The Marxe School’s MPA program cultivates effective administrative leaders and policy analysts, ranked among the nation’s best. NASPAA-accredited, it equips students with diverse skills and knowledge in various public policy areas for impactful careers in government, nonprofits, and the private sector.
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
- New York City, NY
Credit Hours: 42
Resident Tuition: $6,375 (PS)
Non-Resident Tuition: $12,120 (PS)
Program Overview:
John Jay College of Criminal Justice’s MPA Program prepares future public servants to uphold integrity, accountability, inclusiveness, and justice in governance. Celebrating diversity, it offers enriching academic opportunities for prospective and current students to excel in public service.
Marist College
- Poughkeepsie, NY
Credit Hours: 42
Tuition: $920 (PC)
Program Overview:
Marist College offers flexibility in its Public Administration Master’s program, with full-time or part-time options available entirely online. Students can choose from various concentrations and complete the degree within two years, accommodating career commitments.
Pace University – New York
- New York City, NY
Credit Hours: 42
Tuition: $1,150 (PC)
Program Overview:
The MPA program trains students in analytical and administrative skills for success in government, healthcare, and nonprofits. With a focus on ethical leadership, the interdisciplinary curriculum prepares graduates for diverse public service roles.
SUNY College at Brockport
- Brockport, NY
- Campus
Credit Hours: 39
Resident Tuition: $5,655 (PS)
Non-Resident Tuition: $6,785 (PS)
Program Overview:
The MPA curriculum emphasizes NASPAA competencies including leadership, policy participation, analysis, resource distribution awareness, and effective communication. Graduates pursue careers in various sectors including government, education, healthcare, nonprofits, and the private sector.
Syracuse University
- Syracuse, NY
Credit Hours: 40
Tuition: $1,872 (PC)
Program Overview:
Syracuse University’s online EMPA program, offered by the Maxwell School, prepares experienced professionals to enact change in their communities. With renowned faculty and a collaborative environment, students tackle public service challenges and can earn their degree in as little as 15 months.
DePaul University
- Chicago, IL
Credit Hours: 52
Tuition: $743 (PC)
Program Overview:
The MPA program equips students for leadership roles in the public sector, emphasizing critical management skills like ethical leadership, finance, policy analysis, and human resources. Concentration options include Emergency Management, Health Care Administration, and others.
Governors State University
- University Park, IL
Credit Hours: 39
Tuition: $490 (PC)
Program Overview:
The GSU MPA program is tailored for individuals committed to community service, offering skills in social justice, entrepreneurship, and advocacy. Designed for aspiring public managers across various sectors, it provides a high-quality education emphasizing ethics, critical thinking, and decision-making.
Northern Illinois University
- Dekalb, IL
Credit Hours: 44
Tuition: $595 (PC)
Program Overview:
NIU offers two pathways: The MPA online in local government, designed for remote learning with flexible deadlines, and the traditional MPA program, offering evening classes for full-time or part-time students, with hybrid executive format for pre-career and mid-career students.
Southern Illinois University
- Edwardsville, IL
Credit Hours: 39
Resident Tuition: $321 (PC)
Non-Resident Tuition: 470 (PC)
Program Overview:
The MPA program mandates completion of 39 semester hours with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Core courses cover quantitative analysis, public administration fundamentals, e-government, budgeting, human resources, and public policy. Emphasis courses are chosen from various administration areas.
University of Illinois at Chicago
- Chicago, IL
Credit Hours: 54
Non-Resident Tuition: $647 (PC)
Online Tuition: $367 (PC)
Program Overview:
An MPA degree equips individuals to impact local and global communities, with strong demand for leadership and analytical skills. The UIC MPA program boasts faculty expertise across various disciplines, fostering excellence in public service careers.
University of Illinois at Springfield
- Springfield, IL
Credit Hours: 36
Tuition: $367 (PC)
Program Overview:
The MPA program equips students with skills to lead public and nonprofit organizations, offering a foundation in government workings, effective management, and leadership. Graduates pursue diverse careers in program management, nonprofit leadership, research analysis, and city administration.
University of Colorado – Colorado Springs
- Colorado Springs, CO
Credit Hours: 39
Resident Tuition: $595 (PC)
Non-Resident Tuition: $1,400 (PC)
Program Overview:
The UCCS MPA program prepares students for leadership in public and nonprofit sectors, accredited by NASPAA. With flexible course options, around 200 students engage in a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing problem-solving, decision-making, and policy analysis skills.
University of Colorado – Denver
- Denver, CO
Credit Hours: 36
Resident Tuition: $595 (PC)
Non-Resident Tuition: $1,400 (PC)
Program Overview:
The MPA program equips students with skills for leadership in public and nonprofit sectors, emphasizing research, ethics, decision-making, and policy. The flexible program offers various options including 1-year and executive tracks, with in-person and online courses available to accommodate diverse schedules.
Central Michigan University
- Mount Pleasant, MI
Credit Hours: 37
Tuition: $758 (PC)
Program Overview:
The MPA program cultivates innovative leaders for public service roles, covering topics like nonprofit administration and policy analysis. Offered online, the 37-hour program accommodates full-time work, led by CMU faculty with self-paced coursework and potential credit for professional experience.
Grand Valley State University
- Allendale, MI
Credit Hours: 39
Resident Tuition: $644 (PC)
Non-Resident Tuition: $903 (PC)
Program Overview:
With a mission-driven curriculum, students develop leadership skills for governance, policy analysis, nonprofit management, and more. Offered on weekday evenings and online, the program fosters engagement with a diverse student body and renowned faculty.
Oakland University
- Rochester Hills, MI
Credit Hours: 32
Resident Tuition: $872 (PC)
Non-Resident Tuition: $1,027 (PC)
Program Overview:
Oakland University’s MPA program prepares leaders for public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Offering a rigorous curriculum with small classes and a 100% online option, students can specialize in Court Administration, Criminal Justice Leadership, Healthcare Administration, Local Government Management, or Nonprofit Management.
Wayne State University
- Detroit, MI
Credit Hours: 39
Resident Tuition: $762 (PC)
Non-Resident Tuition: $1,652 (PC)
Program Overview:
Wayne State University’s M.P.A. program aims to deliver top-tier graduate education for public service. Accredited by NASPAA, it offers a rigorous curriculum and connects students with job opportunities in various sectors through its jobs listserv.
Western Michigan University
- Kalamazoo, MI
Credit Hours: 39
Tuition: $764 (PC)
Program Overview:
Western Michigan University’s MPA program, accredited by NASPAA and nationally ranked, offers a comprehensive curriculum designed by experienced faculty. It accommodates diverse student needs and preferences, offering five concentrations and flexible course delivery options.
University of Baltimore
- Baltimore, MD
Credit Hours: 36
Resident Tuition: $815 (PC)
Non-Resident Tuition: $1,181 (PC)
Program Overview:
The program encourages critical reflection on public administration’s role in democracy and offers six specializations. Students develop skills in research and quantitative techniques, with internship opportunities available for those without public sector experience.
Louisiana State University
- Baton Rouge, LA
Credit Hours: 36
Resident Tuition: $1,393 (PC)
Non-Resident Tuition: $3,272 (PC)
Program Overview:
The 36-hour MPA program entails 27 core and nine elective hours, covering both public policy and management. Emphasizing policy analysis, program management, and ethical leadership, coursework includes economics, finance, organizational behavior, data analytics, and human resource management. Students gain real-world experience through internships or practicum.
Kent State University
- Kent, OH
Credit Hours: 36
Resident Tuition: $10,416 (PY)
Non-Resident Tuition: $19,887 (PY)
Program Overview:
Kent State University’s online Master of Public Administration program equips students with the skills to excel in public service careers, preparing them for senior management roles in government and nonprofits. Applications are accepted for Fall, Spring, or Summer entries, with a GRE waiver process available.
Appalachian State University
- Boone, NC
Credit Hours: 42
Tuition: $3,963 (PY)
Program Overview:
The mission of Appalachian State University’s Master of Public Administration Program is to educate and prepare students, both in-service and pre-service, to become effective public service leaders through foundational knowledge, analytical skills, and professional networks.
Duke University
- Durham, NC
Credit Hours: 30
Tuition: $12,000 (PS)
Program Overview:
The Sanford School of Public Policy’s Master of Public Policy (MPP) Program aims to cultivate ethical and inclusive leaders dedicated to addressing societal challenges through evidence-based tools and rigorous analysis, preparing students for diverse careers in public service.
East Carolina University
- Greenville, NC
Credit Hours: 42
Resident Tuition: $264 (PC)
Non-Resident Tuition: $994 (PC)
Program Overview:
East Carolina University’s MPA program equips students for public and nonprofit sector roles through a curriculum emphasizing public management and policy skills. Faculty guide students in implementing policies and projects, fostering community engagement. Designed for professionals and pre-service students, the program offers flexible in-person and online classes, enabling career advancement and professional development.
University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill
- Wilmington, NC
Credit Hours: 42
Resident Tuition: $276 (PC)
Non-Resident Tuition: $1,120 (PC)
Program Overview:
UNC-Chapel Hill offers a top-ranked Master of Public Administration program, available on-campus or online. Ranked among the top 20 public affairs schools by U.S. News & World Report, the program emphasizes practical application and offers a rigorous curriculum delivered by renowned faculty scholars.
Tennessee State University
- Nashville, TN
Credit Hours: 36
Resident Tuition: $549 (PC)
Non-Resident Tuition: $1,147 (PC)
Program Overview:
Our esteemed faculty will impart practical skills for real-world scenarios, fostering problem-solving and critical thinking. Begin your admissions process by submitting your application, with the university offering support for financial aid and scholarships.
University of Tennessee – Chattanooga
- Chattanooga, TN
Credit Hours: 39
Resident Tuition: $5,394 (PS)
Non-Resident Tuition: $7,410 (PS)
Program Overview:
The UTC Department of Political Science and Public Service offers an MPA degree and Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management. Their mission emphasizes preparing effective leaders, promoting the public good, and fostering diverse decision-making groups.
Southern Utah University
- Cedar City, UT
Credit Hours: 36
Tuition: $430 (PC)
Program Overview:
The MPA program at Southern Utah University offers an engaging learning environment, blending practical and theoretical concepts within various contexts. Housed within the Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice, it offers a customizable curriculum and typically takes two years to complete.
University of Utah
- Salt Lake City, UT
Credit Hours: 39
Resident Tuition: $1,272 (PC)
Non-Resident Tuition: $4,517 (PC)
Program Overview:
The University of Utah’s MPA Program, established in 1976, offers two flexible options: an evening program and an Executive MPA program. Both emphasize ethical administration, legal foundations, and social justice.
George Mason University
- Fairfax, VA
Credit Hours: 39
Resident Tuition: $927 (PC)
Non-Resident Tuition: $1,741 (PC)
Program Overview:
George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government offers an MPA program focusing on leadership, management, policy, and politics. Graduates secure senior-level positions in diverse sectors, equipped with enhanced communication, budgeting, and analytic skills.
Old Dominion University
- Norfolk, VA
Credit Hours: 39
Resident Tuition: $599 (PC)
Non-Resident Tuition: $1,439 (PC)
Program Overview:
The MPA program at Old Dominion University prepares students for careers in public service and offers opportunities for professionals to enhance their skills. Graduates secure positions in various sectors, benefitting from expert faculty and NASPAA accreditation.
Virginia Commonwealth University
- Richmond, VA
Credit Hours: 39
Resident Tuition: $8,377 (PS)
Non-Resident Tuition: $15,795 (PS)
Program Overview:
The M.P.A. program aims to cultivate ethical leaders skilled in program management and policy analysis for public and nonprofit sectors. Through theory and practice, it addresses social issues, promoting collaborative, equitable, and ethical governance.
Virginia Polytechnic Institute University
- Blacksburg, VA
Credit Hours: 39
Resident Tuition: $15,234 (PY)
Non-Resident Tuition: $30,702 (PY)
Program Overview:
Full-time students finish the 39-credit M.P.A. degree in two years; part-time students enroll in at least one course per semester. Graduates enter public service across various sectors, including government and nonprofits.
California State University, Dominguez Hills
- Dominguez Hills, CA
Credit Hours: 42
Resident Tuition: $19,300 (total)
Non-Resident Tuition: $36,000 (total)
Program Overview:
The CSUDH MPA program, accredited by NASPAA, offers flexible on-campus evening classes or online options, with concentrations in various fields. Expert faculty conduct diverse research, fostering a supportive and inclusive learning community.
California State University, Long Beach
- Long Beach, CA
Credit Hours: 39
Resident Tuition: $10,000 (total
Non-Resident Tuition: $25,444 (total)
Program Overview:
The Graduate Center for Public Policy and Administration offers a Master of Public Administration degree with options in Public Works Administration and Urban Affairs, along with certificate programs. Emphasizing professional competency, the curriculum focuses on applying knowledge to solve public issues.
California State University, San Bernardino
- San Bernardino, CA
Credit Hours: 36
Resident Tuition: $23,302 (total)
Non-Resident Tuition: $37,560 (total)
Program Overview:
The MPA program requires a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or above, or 2.75-2.99 with additional considerations. Applicants must submit a 500-word statement of purpose, demonstrate English language proficiency, and have public or nonprofit sector experience or complete an internship.
San Diego State University
- San Diego, CA
Credit Hours: 39
Tuition: $19,836 (total)
Program Overview:
The Master of Public Administration program at SDSU prepares students to meet the growing demand for skilled public administrators. Structured around five learning outcomes, it offers specialization options and can be pursued in person or online.
University of La Verne
- Ontario, CA
Credit Hours: 39
Tuition: $30,615 (total)
Program Overview:
The University of La Verne’s MPA program prepares professionals for roles in public service across various sectors. Emphasizing collaboration and innovation, it offers online and hybrid formats, NASPAA accreditation, personalized attention, practical skills development, diverse concentration options, and applied project opportunities.
University of Southern California
- Sacramento, CA
Credit Hours: 40
Tuition: $86,840 (total)
Program Overview:
USC Price’s MPA program, ranked #4 nationally, prepares students for public administration careers. It offers specialization options, opportunities to collaborate with research centers, and additional certificate opportunities, fostering skills to manage organizations and serve the public.
Texas A&M International University
- Corpus Christi, TX
Credit Hours: 42
Resident Tuition: $16,037 (total)
Non-Resident Tuition: $36,638 (total)
Program Overview:
The MPA program at TAMIU prepares individuals for leadership in the public and nonprofit sectors, emphasizing cultural diversity and international perspectives. Established in 1999, it’s ideal for mid-career professionals and those seeking public sector employment.
Texas A&M University
- Corpus Christi, TX
Credit Hours: 48
Resident Tuition: $26,862 (total)
Non-Resident Tuition: $27,456 (total)
Program Overview:
The MPSA program at the Bush School develops ethical leaders for the public and nonprofit sectors. Fully accredited, it offers a curriculum in management, leadership, policy analysis, and research methods. Ranked no. 1 for best value in residential MPSA programs.
Texas Southern University
- Carson, TX
Credit Hours: 48
Resident Tuition: $10,724 (total)
Non-Resident Tuition: $23,613 (total)
Program Overview:
The curriculum focuses on urban growth management, providing students with conceptual, quantitative, and professional skills, including knowledge of organizational workings, academic research utilization, computer technology, and communication.
Texas Tech University
- Waco, TX
Credit Hours: 36
Resident Tuition: $21,494 (total)
Non-Resident Tuition: $30,187 (total)
Program Overview:
The MPA program equips working public administrators or aspiring managers/policy analysts in public/nonprofit agencies with professional knowledge and skills. Graduates possess general public management skills and specialized expertise in areas like nonprofit management, public management, and healthcare administration.
The University of Texas at Arlington
- Arlington, TX
Credit Hours: 39
Resident Tuition: $9,933 (total)
Non-Resident Tuition: $34,197 (total)
Program Overview:
The Master of Public Administration program aims to enhance public decision-making and service delivery by educating leaders to manage governmental and nonprofit organizations ethically and effectively. It’s the largest accredited program in Texas and ranked 15th in the U.S., offering campus, online, and city cohort options.
The University of Texas at El Paso
- El Paso, TX
Credit Hours: 36
Resident Tuition: $17,312 (total)
Non-Resident Tuition: $21,259 (total)
Program Overview:
The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) offers an accredited Master of Public Administration (MPA) program, preparing students for careers in governmental and nonprofit management. Established in 1974, it fosters innovation and problem-solving in a diverse, evolving society.
University of Houston, Hobby School
- Houston, TX
Credit Hours: 38
Resident Tuition: $16,026 (total)
Non-Resident Tuition: $35,786 (total)
Program Overview:
The Hobby School of Public Affairs offers various graduate programs, including the Master of Public Administration (MPA), designed to equip professionals with skills for community improvement. The MPA curriculum emphasizes leadership, innovation, and collaboration for effective public service.
University of Delaware
- Newark, DE
Credit Hours: 36
Tuition: $950 (PC)
Program Overview:
The Biden School’s MPA program focuses on preparing students for careers in public service, particularly in the public and nonprofit sectors. The MPA program utilizes the Delaware Model to integrate academic excellence with professional experience for aspiring and practicing public and nonprofit managers. Their online MPA is ranked #10 for Best Online MPA programs by University HQ.
American University
- Washington, D.C.
Credit Hours: 36
Tuition: $1,922 (PC)
Program Overview:
The AU School of Public Affairs offers a top-ranked Master of Public Administration program (#4 by U.S. News & World Report) focusing on leadership in public and nonprofit sectors. Students can tailor their degree with nine concentrations.
Featured NASPAA-Accredited Online MPA Programs
Explore a curated selection of outstanding NASPAA-accredited online Master of Public Administration (MPA) programs that stand out among their peer institutions. These featured programs have earned recognition for their exceptional quality, innovative curriculum, and commitment to preparing future leaders in public administration. With a focus on academic excellence, flexible learning formats, and a dedication to shaping professionals for impactful careers in public service, these NASPAA-accredited online MPA programs set themselves apart as leaders in the field.
American University:
American University’s School of Public Affairs (SPA) stands among the nation’s top-ranked institutions for public affairs, boasting over 80 years of transforming students into adept public management leaders. The Master of Public Administration & Policy (MPAP) degree offered by SPA equips students with sought-after analytical skills applicable across private, public, and nonprofit sectors, as well as at all government levels. Graduates emerge with expertise in problem analysis, organizational management, leadership, and a comprehensive understanding of the political and legal context in modern public service organizations.
The two-year online program provides flexibility for students to earn a graduate degree on their schedule, offering a curriculum grounded in statistics, economics, politics, and practical application. American University’s prime location in the heart of the nation’s political and cultural hub further enriches the learning experience.
University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill:
This top-ranked online MPA program, accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), provides a collaborative and flexible platform for individuals pursuing impactful careers across government, nonprofit, and private sectors. Boasting recognition by U.S. News & World Report and a remarkable 96% employment rate for graduates within six months, the program connects students with a vast network of over 1,500 alumni nationwide.
The curriculum encompasses concentrations in Local Government, Public Management, Nonprofit Management, Public Health, and International Relations, providing a comprehensive toolkit for effective leadership in public service. Immersion experiences, credit-bearing and allowing face-to-face interactions, further enrich the learning experience.
University of Colorado – Denver:
The MPA program at CU Denver, accredited by NASPAA and ranked in the top 15% nationally, offers a comprehensive blend of public administration and policy courses with concentrations including Disaster Management, Educational Policy, and Nonprofit Management. Its flexible structure, including part-time options, facilitates career growth without compromising educational quality. Students delve into policy analysis, budgeting, and organizational management.
With seven distinct concentrations, from emergency management to education policy, students can specialize their MPA path and access unique career options. With flexible start dates in Fall, Spring, and Summer, a course duration averaging 2.5 years, and NASPAA accreditation, the CU Denver MPA program provides a robust and accessible pathway for individuals aspiring to make a difference in public service.
University of Illinois at Chicago:
The University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) offers a 100% Online Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) program with an application deadline of June 5, 2024, and classes starting on June 10, 2024. The program’s structure allows students to complete it at their own pace, and full-time students can finish in as little as seven consecutive 8-week terms or 16 months, offering flexibility for working professionals.
The curriculum covers core topics such as public management, policy analysis, budgeting, financial management, and organizational leadership, providing students with essential skills for effective leadership and problem-solving in public organizations. The MPA program offers concentrations in Public Management and Nonprofit Management, each focusing on specialized expertise.
Syracuse University:
Syracuse University’s online Executive Master’s in Public Administration (EMPA) targets experienced professionals aiming to advance people, policies, and communities. The program, delivered by the top-ranked Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, requires no GRE/GMAT and offers a purposeful education with 10 sub-specialty rankings.
Syracuse University’s EMPA ensures students learn from dedicated public service experts, contributing to over 30,000 alumni in the public service field. Additionally, the university provides an on-campus MPA program for early and mid-career individuals. The EMPA curriculum, featuring courses like Managerial Leadership, Public Budgeting, and Human Resources Management, equips students to drive positive change in their communities while addressing public service challenges.