Introduction
South Carolina offers a compelling environment for students pursuing a Master of Public Administration (MPA), blending academic quality with rich opportunities for public service. With programs located in the state capital and along the historic Lowcountry coast, MPA students gain firsthand access to government institutions, nonprofit organizations, and vibrant local communities. Whether studying in Columbia or Charleston, students benefit from small class sizes, practitioner-focused faculty, and applied learning experiences that prepare them for leadership roles across the public, nonprofit, and private sectors.
Key State Takeaways:
- Total MPA Programs Statewide: 3
- NASPAA-Accredited Programs: 2
- Annual Resident Tuition Average: $12,500 (PYR)
- Annual Non-Resident Tuition Average: $18,000 (PYR)
- Program Formats Offered: On-campus, hybrid, evening, and online
- Average Starting Salary: $58,000
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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:
NASPAA-Accredited MPA Programs in South Carolina
NASPAA accreditation can enhance the reputation of MPA programs in South Carolina, helping to attract top faculty and students and enhancing the program’s visibility and credibility. Accreditation can also provide MPA graduates with a competitive advantage in the job market, as employers may view graduates from accredited programs as being better prepared and more qualified for leadership roles in public service.
Overall, attending an MPA program in South Carolina provides not only a quality education but also the opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of the state. An overview of each NASPAA-accredited (the gold standard for MPA degrees) program can be found here:
University of South Carolina
- Columbia, SC.
- 39 Credit Hours
- Campus
Program:
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
The University of South Carolina’s Master of Public Administration cultivates strategic leaders equipped to drive innovation and accountability in public, nonprofit, and private sectors. Situated in the heart of Columbia—South Carolina’s state capital—it grants students direct access to policymaking environments and a powerful professional network. With a rigorous curriculum, a mandatory internship, and a real-world capstone, the program ensures graduates emerge as skilled analysts and effective decision-makers ready to lead in complex environments.
Unique Components:
- Concentrations: Advanced focus in Emergency Management & Planning (e.g., Environmental Hazards, GIS) allows for targeted expertise in critical public sectors.
- Dual & Joint Degrees: Earn two complementary degrees– like MPA/J.D., MPA/MSW, or MPA/MPH- through structured combinations that reduce overall credits and accelerate completion.
- Capstone Seminar: All students complete an integrated project in their final term, applying management and analytical skills to a real public administration challenge.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus (evening)
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCOC
- Credit Hours: 39
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $12,500 (PYR)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $18,000 (PYR)
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
Other Considerations:
- The USC Innovista district fosters public-private collaborations, urban redevelopment, and applied policy research that students can tap into.
- Blends scholar-practitioners with active involvement in state government, policy research, and civic leadership.
College of Charleston
- Charleston, SC.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Campus + Hybrid
Program:
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
The College of Charleston’s Master of Public Administration stands out as the premier public affairs program in the state—with a global ranking placing it within the top 30% worldwide—making it a top-tier, yet accessible, choice for future public service leaders. Its NASPAA accreditation reinforces its commitment to academic excellence and real-world relevance.
Rooted in the culturally rich and historic Lowcountry, students benefit from immersive learning opportunities through the Joseph P. Riley Jr. Center for Livable Communities, applied research projects, and partnerships with local government and nonprofits.
Unique Components:
- Riley Center partnership and applied projects: Students connect at the Joseph P. Riley Jr. Center for Livable Communities, an interdisciplinary hub that supports local governments and nonprofits through research, strategic planning, and technical assistance.
- Stackable credentials and dual-degree pathway: Two graduate certificates—Urban & Regional Planning and Arts & Cultural Management—can be earned independently or alongside the MPA, with certificate credits transferable into the degree.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus (evening), hybrid
- Accreditation: NASPAA, SACSCOC
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Not required
- Resident Tuition: $7,920 (PSR)
- Non-Resident Tuition: $10,476 (PSR)
- Acceptance Rate: 72%
- Enrollment: N/A
Other Considerations:
- A 3-credit internship anchors pre-service training (typically 300 hours), while students with substantial public/nonprofit experience may request a waiver and replace it with an elective.
- Courses are scheduled primarily in the evening (typically 5:30–8:15 p.m.), allowing working professionals to progress without disrupting full-time roles.
- Competitive assistantships—including positions with the Community Assistance Program (CAP) housed in the MPA office—provide applied experience while offsetting costs.
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:
Non-Accredited Schools
Clemson University offers an MPA (or closely related) program that is not NASPAA-accredited but is regionally accredited by SACSCOC. These programs can still deliver strong, career-relevant training—often with advantages like lower tuition, fully online formats, and niche certificates. When comparing options, look closely at faculty experience, internship pipelines, capstone requirements, alumni outcomes, and scheduling flexibility:
| Institution | Location | Accreditation | Credit Hours | Modality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clemson University | Clemson, SC | SACSCOC | 42 | Online/On- Campus |
Career Outlook
In South Carolina, an MPA degree can lead to a variety of rewarding careers in public administration, nonprofit management, and policy analysis. The state’s unique blend of urban and rural areas, coupled with its historical and cultural significance, creates a diverse range of opportunities for MPA graduates.
- Historic Preservation Planner: Responsible for preserving and promoting South Carolina’s historical sites and landmarks, ensuring their cultural significance is maintained for future generations.
- Economic Development Specialist: Focuses on attracting businesses and promoting economic growth in South Carolina, identifying opportunities for investment and job creation.
- Environmental Policy Analyst: Develops and implements policies to protect South Carolina’s natural resources, including its coastal areas, forests, and wildlife, ensuring sustainable management practices are in place.
- Public Health Administrator: Manages public health programs and initiatives in South Carolina, addressing issues such as disease prevention, health education, and access to healthcare services.
- Criminal Justice Planner: Coordinates and implements criminal justice programs and policies in South Carolina, working to improve public safety and reduce crime rates in the state.
- Community Development Specialist: Focuses on improving the quality of life for residents in South Carolina’s communities, implementing programs and initiatives that address housing, infrastructure, and economic development needs.
Notable leaders in South Carolina with MPA degrees include Anita Zucker, CEO of The InterTech Group, showcasing the potential for MPA graduates to excel in both the public and private sectors in the state.
All MPA Programs in South Carolina
| School Name | Degree Program Name | State | City | NASPAA Accredited | Online Degree | Program Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| College of Charleston | Master Of Public Administration | South Carolina | Charleston | No | Yes | https://puba.cofc.edu/ |
| University of South Carolina | Master Of Public Administration | South Carolina | Columbia | No | Yes | https://sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/artsandsciences/political_science/study/graduate/masters/ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do South Carolina MPA programs require the GRE?
A: Most do not require the GRE. Admissions typically weigh your GPA, resume, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. Always check each program’s current policy.
Q: Which South Carolina programs are NASPAA-accredited?
A: The University of South Carolina (Columbia) and the College of Charleston hold NASPAA accreditation. Other regionally accredited programs may still be solid choices depending on cost, format, and specialization needs.
Q: How long does it take to finish?
A: Most South Carolina MPAs run 36–42 credits, which is roughly 18–24 months full-time. Part-time students typically finish in 2–3 years, depending on course load.
Q: What are typical specializations or focus areas?
A: Common tracks include nonprofit management, local/urban management, budgeting & finance, HR, and emergency management/hazards. Some programs also offer policy analytics or coastal/environmental governance electives relevant to the Lowcountry.
Q: Are internships required?
A: Many programs encourage or require internships (often 3 credits) for pre-service students. Mid-career students may qualify for waivers or alternatives (e.g., applied projects, capstones).
Q: What kinds of dual degrees or certificates can I pursue?
A: Options often include MPA/JD, MPA/MSW, MPA/MPH, and stackable graduate certificates (e.g., nonprofit leadership, emergency management, urban planning). These can accelerate completion and broaden your career lanes.
Q: What does it cost, and is financial aid available?
A: In-state public tuition commonly falls around the low-to-mid teens per year, with higher rates for out-of-state. Look for graduate assistantships, tuition scholarships, employer tuition benefits, and federal aid.
Q: What careers do SC MPA grads pursue?
A: City/county administration, budget/grants management, nonprofit leadership, emergency management, transportation/urban planning, and policy analysis across state agencies, municipalities, and regional nonprofits. Charleston’s coastal setting and Columbia’s capital location create strong pipelines in coastal/environmental policy and state-level administration.
Q: When are the start terms and deadlines?
A: Most programs offer fall and spring starts; some include summer. Deadlines vary—plan to apply 3–6 months before your intended start and watch for earlier scholarship/assistantship dates.
