Introduction
Achieving an MPA degree in North Carolina not only opens doors to fulfilling leadership roles within the public sector, nonprofit organizations, and private entities collaborating with government agencies but also offers a distinctive experience shaped by the state’s unique challenges and needs. North Carolina stands out for its array of MPA programs, providing aspiring professionals with a platform to specialize in public administration, policy analysis, and leadership that directly addresses the region’s specific complexities.
Key State Takeaways:
- Total MPA Programs Statewide: 12
- NASPAA-Accredited Programs: 10
- Annual Resident Tuition Average: $12,300 (PYR)
- Annual Non-Resident Tuition Average: $33,073 (PYR)
- Program Formats Offered: On-campus, online, hybrid
- Average Starting Salary: $66,442
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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 North Carolina
Highlighting the commitment to quality education, presently, 10 institutions in North Carolina have secured NASPAA accreditation for their MPA programs. This accreditation serves as a testament to their dedication to excellence and adherence to industry standards. For prospective students, NASPAA accreditation provides a reliable indicator of a program’s relevance, offering a strong foundation for a successful career in public administration. Here’s an overview of the 10 NASPAA-accredited institutions in North Carolina:
Appalachian State University
- Boone, NC.
- 42 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Appalachian State University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Government and Justice Studies in the College of Arts and Sciences—is designed to develop skilled, ethical, and effective public service leaders. Students gain practical experience through internships and client-based projects while learning to apply administrative, financial, and analytical tools to solve real-world problems. With flexible options for working professionals, small class sizes, and faculty deeply connected to public service practice, Appalachian State’s MPA offers an accessible and highly respected pathway into public leadership in North Carolina and beyond.
Unique Components:
- Specialized Concentrations for Career Alignment: Students can tailor their studies through concentrations such as Town, City, and County Management; Nonprofit Management; and Criminal Justice Administration, providing clear pathways into professional specialization.
- Community-Engaged and Regionally Focused Curriculum: Reflecting Appalachian State’s public service mission, the program emphasizes engagement with North Carolina’s local governments, especially those serving rural and mountain communities.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online, on-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCC
- Credit Hours: 42
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $312 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,018 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Enrollment: 80-100 students
Other Considerations:
- Applied Research and Capstone Experience: The program culminates in a capstone project where students partner with real organizations to conduct applied research and develop policy or management solutions.
Duke University
- Durham, NC.
- 48 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Duke University offers its public service–focused graduate degree through the Master of Public Policy (MPP) program at the Sanford School of Public Policy, which serves a similar purpose to an MPA while emphasizing leadership, evidence-based policymaking, and quantitative analysis. As one of the nation’s top-ranked public policy schools, Duke’s program prepares students to lead in government, nonprofits, and international organizations through a curriculum grounded in ethics, rigorous analysis, and practical experience. Students benefit from Duke’s interdisciplinary environment, personalized mentorship, and opportunities to work directly with organizations addressing real policy challenges. The program’s blend of policy analysis, management, and leadership training makes it an elite choice for those seeking to influence public affairs at the highest levels.
Unique Components:
- Top-Ranked, Globally Recognized Program: Duke’s Sanford School consistently ranks among the top public policy programs in the U.S., known for its excellence in leadership training, global affairs, and quantitative policy analysis.
- Integrated Leadership and Management Focus: While the degree is an MPP, it incorporates core public administration principles—such as budgeting, performance management, and organizational leadership—making it highly relevant to MPA-bound students.
- Cross-Disciplinary Opportunities at a Research University: Duke’s collaborative ecosystem enables students to take courses and engage in projects with law, business, environment, and global health programs.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online, on-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCC
- Credit Hours: 48
- GRE: Optional
- Tuition: $28,950 (PSR)
- Acceptance Rate: 25-30%
- Enrollment: 150 students
Other Considerations:
- Capstone Policy Project with Real-World Impact: In the final semester, students complete a client-based capstone project addressing an actual policy or management problem for a government agency or nonprofit organization.
- Professional Development and Internship Requirement: Every student completes a professional summer internship, supported by career coaches and alumni mentors, to build applied experience before graduation.
East Carolina University
- Greenville, NC.
- 42 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
East Carolina University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Political Science in the Thomas Harriot College of Arts and Sciences—prepares students for professional leadership roles in government, nonprofit organizations, and public service institutions. Located in Greenville, North Carolina, ECU’s MPA program combines practical management training with a strong foundation in public policy, ethics, and analytical skills. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, civic engagement, and regional service, particularly focused on the needs of North Carolina’s eastern and coastal communities. With small class sizes, experienced faculty, and flexible options for both pre-service and mid-career students, ECU’s MPA is designed to deliver both theoretical grounding and real-world experience.
Unique Components:
- Regional Focus on Eastern North Carolina: The program’s curriculum and partnerships reflect ECU’s mission to strengthen local and regional governance, emphasizing coastal management, rural policy, and regional development.
- Flexible Learning Options for Professionals: ECU’s MPA offers both full-time and part-time study options, with courses held in the evenings and in hybrid formats to accommodate working professionals.
- Strong Internship and Applied Experience: Students gain professional experience through internships in local government, nonprofits, and state agencies—often leading directly to full-time employment after graduation.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online, on-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCC
- Credit Hours: 42
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $298 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,020 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Enrollment: 80-100 students
Other Considerations:
- Concentrations and Certificates for Specialization: The program offers concentrations in Public Management, Health Administration, and Environmental Policy, as well as graduate certificates in related public service fields.
North Carolina Central University
- Durham, NC.
- 42 Credit Hours
- Campus
Program:
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
North Carolina Central University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Public Administration in the College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities—prepares students for leadership and management roles in public service, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector. Located in Durham, North Carolina, the program emphasizes ethical governance, community engagement, and effective management in a diverse and changing public sector landscape. NCCU’s MPA stands out for its focus on equity and inclusion, aligning with the university’s strong tradition as a Historically Black University (HBCU) dedicated to public service and social justice. Students receive a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical experience through internships, applied research, and partnerships with local and state agencies.
Unique Components:
- HBCU Legacy and Commitment to Social Equity: NCCU’s MPA program builds on the university’s historic mission to advance social justice and equity, training leaders who are equipped to serve diverse and underserved communities.
- Applied Internship and Capstone Experience: Students engage in an applied research project or internship, addressing real-world administrative and policy challenges in partnership with local and state organizations.
- Concentrations in Public and Nonprofit Management: The program offers specializations that allow students to focus on either public management or nonprofit leadership, depending on their career goals.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCC
- Credit Hours: 42
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $308 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $998 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Enrollment: 60-80 students
Other Considerations:
- Flexible Scheduling for Working Professionals: Evening and hybrid course formats allow full-time employees in government and nonprofit organizations to complete their degrees while continuing their careers.
North Carolina State University
- Raleigh, NC.
- 45 Credit Hours
- Campus
Program:
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
North Carolina State University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences—prepares students for leadership and management roles in government, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector. Located in Raleigh, the state capital, NC State’s MPA provides direct access to state agencies, legislative bodies, and nonprofit organizations, creating unparalleled opportunities for applied learning and professional development.
Unique Components:
- Applied Capstone and Internship Opportunities: The program integrates an internship (for pre-service students) and a professional capstone project (for in-service students), ensuring that graduates leave with relevant, hands-on experience.
- Focus on Data-Driven Governance: The curriculum emphasizes public budgeting, policy analysis, and performance management, developing leaders skilled in data-informed decision-making and organizational accountability.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCC
- Credit Hours: 45
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $448 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,312 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 60%
- Enrollment: 100-120 students
Other Considerations:
- Capital City Advantage: Situated in Raleigh, NC State’s MPA program gives students direct access to internships and networking opportunities with state government, local agencies, and nonprofits operating at the center of North Carolina’s policymaking environment.
University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill
- Chapel Hill, NC.
- 39 Credit Hours
- Campus
Program:
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the nationally renowned School of Government—is one of the most prestigious and well-established public administration programs in the United States. For more than 60 years, UNC-Chapel Hill’s MPA has prepared public service professionals for leadership roles across local, state, and federal government, as well as nonprofit and private organizations. The program emphasizes practical problem-solving, ethical leadership, and evidence-based management, combining rigorous academic study with hands-on learning. Students are drawn to UNC’s MPA for its strong statewide connections, flexible delivery, and its reputation for producing skilled and service-oriented leaders.
Unique Components:
- Nationally Recognized and Historically Influential Program: UNC’s MPA program consistently ranks among the top public administration programs in the nation and is widely regarded as one of the strongest for local government management.
- Applied Learning through the UNC School of Government: As part of the nation’s largest university-based local government training institute, students have access to real-time engagement with public officials, policy practitioners, and community leaders.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCC
- Credit Hours: 39
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $555 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,550 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 50%
- Enrollment: 200-225 students
Other Considerations:
- Strong North Carolina Government Partnerships: The program maintains close relationships with municipal, county, and state agencies, providing unparalleled internship and career placement opportunities throughout the state.
University of North Carolina – Charlotte
- Charlotte, NC.
- 43 Credit Hours
- Campus
Program:
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Political Science and Public Administration in the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences—prepares students for leadership roles in public service, nonprofit management, and urban policy. The program is designed for both pre-service and mid-career professionals, offering concentrations in areas such as Urban Management and Policy, Nonprofit Management, and Emergency Management. With its emphasis on ethics, evidence-based governance, and regional service, UNC Charlotte’s MPA program stands out as a top choice for students seeking to make a tangible impact in North Carolina’s rapidly growing urban communities.
Unique Components:
- Urban and Regional Policy Focus: The program leverages Charlotte’s role as a major urban center to provide students with practical insights into metropolitan governance, housing, transportation, and economic development.
- Concentrations for Career Specialization: Students can tailor their studies through concentrations in Urban Management and Policy, Nonprofit Management, Emergency Management, and Arts Administration.
- Dual Degree and Certificate Options: Students can pursue dual degrees—such as the MPA/Master of Arts in Sociology or MPA/Juris Doctor (JD)—or graduate certificates in fields like Urban Management, Emergency Management, and Nonprofit Leadership.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCC
- Credit Hours: 43
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $374 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,032 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Enrollment: 90-110 students
Other Considerations:
- Community-Engaged Learning and Partnerships: The program maintains strong relationships with the City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and regional nonprofit organizations, facilitating applied research and internship opportunities.
University of North Carolina – Greensboro
- Greensboro, NC.
- 39 Credit Hours
- Campus
Program:
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro’s Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Political Science in the College of Arts and Sciences—equips students with the skills and values necessary for effective and ethical leadership in government, nonprofit, and community organizations. Located in Greensboro, the program emphasizes a balance between theory and practice, preparing graduates to manage people, budgets, and programs with accountability and integrity. UNCG’s MPA is particularly known for its focus on community engagement and applied research that addresses local and regional policy challenges. Students gain hands-on experience through internships and client-based capstone projects, while benefiting from small class sizes and close faculty mentorship.
Unique Components:
- Community and Regional Engagement Focus: The program emphasizes partnerships with local governments and nonprofits across the Piedmont Triad region, providing students with extensive applied learning opportunities.
- Professional and Pre-Service Student Pathways: Designed for both experienced public service professionals and recent graduates, the program offers flexible scheduling for full-time or part-time study.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCC
- Credit Hours: 39
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $303 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $990 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Enrollment: 60-80 students
Other Considerations:
- Applied Research and Capstone Experience: Students complete a capstone project that engages them in solving real-world management or policy challenges for public and nonprofit organizations.
- Concentrations in Public Management and Nonprofit Management: Students can specialize in either track to align their studies with career interests in local government, human services, or nonprofit leadership.
University of North Carolina – Wilmington
- Wilmington, NC.
- 42 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
The University of North Carolina Wilmington’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Public and International Affairs in the College of Humanities, Social Sciences, and the Arts—prepares students for administrative and leadership positions in government, nonprofit, and public service organizations. Located in a growing coastal city, UNCW’s MPA program combines academic rigor with applied learning focused on the challenges of coastal, urban, and regional governance. Students benefit from close faculty mentorship, small class sizes, and opportunities to engage with local governments, nonprofits, and regional agencies throughout southeastern North Carolina.
Unique Components:
- Coastal and Regional Policy Focus: UNCW’s coastal location provides a natural emphasis on regional governance, sustainability, and coastal policy management—issues central to North Carolina’s eastern communities.
- Applied Internship and Capstone Experiences: Students apply their skills through internships and a final capstone project that address real-world organizational and policy challenges in partnership with public and nonprofit agencies.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online, on-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCC
- Credit Hours: 42
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $303 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $988 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Enrollment: 80-100 students
Other Considerations:
- Concentrations for Professional Specialization: The program offers concentrations in Public Management, Nonprofit Management, Environmental Policy, and Public Policy Analysis, allowing students to tailor their education to their career interests.
Western Carolina University
- Cullowhee, NC.
- 39 Credit Hours
- Campus
Program:
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Western Carolina University’s Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program—offered through the Department of Political Science and Public Affairs in the College of Arts and Sciences—prepares students to become effective, ethical, and innovative leaders in government, nonprofit, and community-based organizations. Located in Cullowhee, North Carolina, with a regional site in Asheville, the program emphasizes leadership in rural and small-town governance, as well as applied administrative skills relevant to communities throughout western North Carolina and the Appalachian region. The WCU MPA integrates academic theory with real-world experience through internships, applied research, and partnerships with local and regional agencies. Designed for both pre-service and mid-career professionals, the program’s small class sizes, flexible evening and hybrid formats, and strong public service focus make it a practical, affordable, and community-oriented option for students seeking to advance in public administration careers.
Unique Components:
- Focus on Rural and Regional Governance: WCU’s MPA program specializes in preparing public administrators to lead effectively in rural and small-town settings, emphasizing regional collaboration and community-based leadership.
- Asheville-Based Program Option: In addition to the main Cullowhee campus, the program offers a convenient part-time MPA track at WCU’s Biltmore Park instructional site in Asheville for working professionals across western North Carolina.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCC
- Credit Hours: 39
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $318 (PCH)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $1,103 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Enrollment: 50-70 students
Other Considerations:
- Personalized Instruction and Faculty Mentorship: With small class sizes and practitioner-oriented faculty, the program provides individualized attention and close professional guidance to each student.
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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
While North Carolina is home to several NASPAA-accredited MPA programs, non-accredited options in the state can still provide strong preparation for public service careers. Many of these programs—offered by smaller regional universities—emphasize applied learning, flexible scheduling, and close connections with local governments and nonprofits. They often cater to working professionals seeking affordable and accessible graduate education without sacrificing practical skill development. For students focused on leadership roles within their communities rather than national recognition, these non-accredited MPA programs remain valuable and worthwhile choices.
| Institution | Location | Accreditation | Credit Hours | Modality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of North Carolina at Pembroke | Pembroke, NC | SACSCC | 39 | Online |
| Strayer University – North Carolina | Morrisville, NC | SACSCC | 30 | Online |
Career Outlook
Earning an MPA opens doors to leadership and managerial careers across government, nonprofits, and related sectors. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the “public policy and social services” field currently supports nearly a million workers and tends to offer solid earnings for those with advanced degrees.
- Policy Analyst — Examines public policies, programs, and legislation to evaluate their effectiveness, prepares reports, and offers recommendations to decision-makers.
- Nonprofit Manager / Executive Director — Leads nonprofit organizations by managing programs, staff, fundraising, grant writing, and organizational strategy.
- Emergency Management Director / Specialist — Plans for, responds to, and recovers from disasters or public safety crises in coordination with local, state, and federal agencies (e.g. setting up disaster response, continuity plans).
- Environmental Policy Analyst / Planner — Works at the intersection of sustainability and regulation, advising government or NGOs on environmental legislation, land use, resource management, and climate initiatives.
- Economic Development Specialist / Planner — Supports regional or municipal growth by developing and implementing strategies to attract investment, promote business growth, and revitalize communities.
All MPA Programs in North Carolina
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes studying public administration in North Carolina unique?
A: North Carolina’s strong tradition of local government management and regional collaboration gives MPA students access to hands-on experiences in both urban and rural settings. Programs often partner with cities, counties, and regional councils of government, offering students applied research and internship opportunities tied to real community issues.
Q: Can I complete an MPA online or part-time in North Carolina?
A: Yes. Many universities, including Appalachian State and NC State, offer fully online or hybrid MPA programs tailored for working professionals. Part-time formats allow students to balance coursework with full-time employment, while online programs extend access to those living outside major metro areas like Raleigh or Charlotte.
Q: How long does it take to complete an MPA in North Carolina?
A: Full-time students typically complete their degree in about two years. Part-time or online students may take three to four years, depending on course load and professional commitments. Most programs require between 36 and 42 credit hours, with internships or capstone projects integrated into the curriculum.
Q: What concentrations or specializations can students pursue?
A: Concentrations vary by institution but often include nonprofit management, local government administration, public policy, budgeting and finance, and emergency management. UNC-Chapel Hill, for instance, offers a well-known focus on local government leadership through its School of Government.
Q: What kinds of career paths do MPA graduates in North Carolina follow?
A: Graduates frequently go on to serve as city and county managers, policy analysts, nonprofit directors, and program administrators. North Carolina’s strong public sector and network of regional councils, universities, and nonprofit organizations create a wide range of opportunities in government and community development.
Q: Are dual-degree or accelerated MPA options available in North Carolina?
A: Yes. Several universities, including UNC-Chapel Hill and NC State, offer dual-degree options that pair the MPA with fields such as law, public health, or environmental management. Some schools also provide accelerated “4+1” pathways that allow undergraduates to complete both degrees in five years.
