Introduction
As a prospective MPA student considering schools, New Hampshire offers a unique political landscape as the first state to hold a primary in the presidential election cycle, making it a hub for political activity. The state government provides opportunities for MPA graduates to work in various agencies, shaping public policy and serving the community. A strong tradition of local government means there are numerous roles where MPA graduates can make a direct impact on their communities.
Key State Takeaways:
- Total MPA Programs Statewide: 2
- NASPAA-Accredited Programs: 0
- Annual Resident Tuition Average: $13,500 (PYR)
- Annual Non-Resident Tuition Average: $15,000 (PYR)
- Program Formats Offered: Online
- Average Starting Salary: $66,000
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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:
MPA Programs in New Hampshire
Institutions in New Hampshire offer high-quality MPA programs that are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field of public administration. An overview of the two MPA programs in the state can be found here:
University of New Hampshire
- Durham, NH.
- 30-36 Credit Hours
- Online
Program:
Carsey School of Public Policy
Program Overview:
UNH’s MPA is a skills-forward online program that you can finish in 14–16 months (or 12 months in the Executive MPA for mid-career professionals). The curriculum blends management, budgeting/finance, law/ethics, analytics, and leadership, with two capstone tracks so you can either complete an applied client project or a management/leadership portfolio—ideal if you want a flexible, practice-oriented pathway tied to New England public and nonprofit employers, no GRE required.
Unique Components:
- Degree Tracks: Standard MPA (36 credits) for early-career professionals; Executive MPA (30 credits) for applicants with 5+ years’ experience or a Certified Public Manager (CPM) credential.
- Real-World Experience: Choose a Capstone in Public Administration (PA 908A) focused on management/leadership or a four-term applied project in the Program Planning & Development track; optional Washington, DC Colloquium experience.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online only
- Accreditation: NECHE
- Credit Hours: 30-36
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $800 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $880 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 87%
- Enrollment: 2,250 (graduate)
Other Considerations:
- Online cohort model with advising, e-portfolio development, and opportunities to take select electives on campus.
- UNH’s NECHE accreditation provides institutional quality assurance; if NASPAA accreditation matters for your goals, weigh that alongside UNH’s applied curriculum, capstone options, experience-based Executive track, and no-GRE admissions.
Southern New Hampshire University
- Manchester, NH.
- 30 Credit Hours
- Online
Program:
Masters in Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
SNHU’s 30-credit, 10-course online MBA lets you specialize in Public Administration through a 3-course concentration while completing the standard MBA core. Courses run in 10-week terms with five starts per year, and you can finish in as few as 12 months if you double up on terms. It’s a pragmatic choice if you want business-plus-public-service training, no admission test scores, and a clear, fully online path you can take from anywhere.
Unique Components:
- Degree Tracks: MBA with a Public Administration concentration; you can also stack the same 9 concentration credits into SNHU’s Graduate Certificate in Public Administration (“MPA+-style” add-on).
- Curriculum: MBA core classes (7 courses) plus 3 Public Administration courses: Strategic Management in Public Service (PAD 631) and Intergovernmental Relations (PAD 633), plus either Foundations of Public Administration (PAD 630) or Foundations of Public Policy (PAD 632). Applicants without a business background may take 1–2 foundation courses.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online only
- Accreditation: NECHE
- Credit Hours: 30
- GRE: Not required
- Online Tuition: $659 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Enrollment: N/A
Other Considerations:
- The MBA uses scenario-based learning with opportunities for embedded micro-credentials (e.g., analytics, Power BI, strategy) that you can add to a portfolio while you study.
- SNHU’s online model offers frequent starts, 10-week pacing, and broad learner support; admissions use a no-fee, no-test process.
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:
Accreditation Details
While there are currently no institutions in New Hampshire offering MPA programs with NASPAA accreditation, the two programs available in the state still provide valuable education and training in public administration.
Both the University of New Hampshire and Southern New Hampshire University offer MPA programs that include some NASPAA competencies, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive and relevant education in the field. While NASPAA accreditation is a recognized mark of quality in public administration education, these programs are still reputable within the state and can provide students with the knowledge and skills needed for successful careers in public service.
Career Outlook
In the State of New Hampshire, there are plenty of opportunities in public administration that are unlike any other jobs across the United States. MPA graduates might find unique job opportunities such as:
- Mount Washington Observatory Director: The Mount Washington Observatory, located on the summit of Mount Washington, provides weather data, research, and educational programs. The executive director oversees the organization’s operations, including research, education, and public outreach.
- New Hampshire Fish and Game Conservation Officer: Conservation officers in New Hampshire are responsible for enforcing fish, game, and boating laws, as well as conducting wildlife management activities. They work to protect New Hampshire’s natural resources and wildlife populations.
- State Forester: The State Forester in New Hampshire oversees the management and protection of the state’s forests. They work to ensure sustainable forestry practices, protect against wildfires, and promote conservation efforts.
- New Hampshire Division of Historical Resources: This role involves overseeing the preservation and promotion of New Hampshire’s historical and cultural resources, including historic sites, artifacts, and archives.
- Coordinator of the New Hampshire Coastal Program: This position involves managing and coordinating efforts to protect and preserve New Hampshire’s coastal resources, including coastal habitats, water quality, and marine ecosystems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Which universities in New Hampshire offer an MPA (or similar)?
A: The University of New Hampshire offers a 100% online MPA; Southern New Hampshire University offers an online MBA with a Public Administration concentration.
Q: Are there NASPAA-accredited options in-state?
A: No—New Hampshire currently has no NASPAA-accredited MPA/MPP programs.
Q: Can I study fully online from New Hampshire?
A: Yes—UNH’s MPA is fully online; SNHU’s MBA-PA is also fully online.
Q: What policy areas are especially active?
A: Housing and community development, coastal/climate resilience, energy transition, rural broadband, and public health.
Q: Where do students typically intern or work?
A: State agencies in Concord, municipalities and school districts, regional planning commissions, and statewide nonprofits.
Q: What skills help me stand out?
A: Grants and budgeting, program evaluation, stakeholder engagement, and data tools (Excel/Power BI/GIS).
