Introduction
Washington, DC, is the capital city of the United States and the heart of the federal government. Thus, a master’s in public administration (MPA) is a well-regarded postgraduate degree for anyone looking to serve in government in our vicinity. An MPA degree can be used in a variety of positions within the executive, legislative, and judiciary branches of government. MPA degree holders also work in non-governmental organizations (NGOs), other nonprofits, and the private sector.
Key State Takeaways:
- Total MPA Programs Statewide: 5
- NASPAA-Accredited Programs: 2
- Annual Resident Tuition Average: $17,600 (PYR)
- Annual Non-Resident Tuition Average: $33,750 (PYR)
- Program Formats Offered: On-campus, hybrid, online
- Average Starting Salary: $75,100
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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 Washington, D.C.
MPA programs worldwide are accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), the recognized global accreditor of master’s degrees. According to the NASPAA 2021-2022 Annual Report, 85% of those who enter an MPA program either graduate or are persisting to graduate.
There are only two NASPAA-accredited programs within the District of Columbia: The American University School of Public Affairs and the Trachtenberg School of Public Policy & Public Administration at George Washington University. An overview of these two programs can be found here:
American University
- Washington, D.C.
- 39 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
School of Public Affairs
Program Overview:
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) at American University’s School of Public Affairs (SPA) prepares students to lead with integrity and effectiveness in public service, nonprofit work, and public policy settings both in the U.S. and abroad. The program is NASPAA-accredited, combining core coursework, electives (including concentrations or customized focus areas), and a capstone in public administration to develop analytical, managerial, and leadership competencies. The curriculum also accommodates students with varying levels of professional experience via internship or non-credit/practicum options.
Unique Components:
- Custom or Mixed Concentrations: Students can design their own concentration (a “mixed concentration” from two or more areas or a self-titled concentration) with advisor approval.
- Internship Options: For students without significant work experience, internship (credit or non-credit) is required; non-credit internships require a survey if taken.
- Executive Leadership Track: The Key Executive Leadership MPA is designed for mid-career professionals, meets on selected weekends over ~20 months, so students can remain employed while completing.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: On-campus, online
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 39
- GRE: Optional
- Tuition: $56,862 (TTL)
- Acceptance Rate: 72%
- Enrollment: 510 students
Other Considerations:
- Location: Washington, D.C. offers unmatched access to federal agencies, nonprofit organizations, think tanks, policy forums, and internship/employment opportunities.
- Capstone in Public Administration: A capstone project integrates learning by applying coursework to significant public management challenges.
George Washington University
- Washington, D.C.
- 40 Credit Hours
- Online + Campus
Program:
Trachtenberg School of Public Affairs
Program Overview:
GWU’s MPA is offered through the Trachtenberg School of Public Policy & Public Administration (TSPPPA) in Washington, D.C. The program is NASPAA-accredited and designed to train public service leaders in policy, analysis, budgeting & finance, management, nonprofit work, and program evaluation. The curriculum combines required core courses, policy-field specialization, electives, and a capstone project. Students engage with real-world clients and public/nonprofit/public sector institutions in the DC region.
Unique Components:
- Pro Bono Projects: Every MPA student works with at least one real client organization; many engage in multiple projects.
- Policy Field Specializations: Students select a policy field (≥9 credits) in areas like budget & public finance, nonprofit management, education policy, environmental policy, etc.
- Flexible Study Modes: Full-time and part-time options; electives and scheduling allow for balancing with work.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online, on-campus
- Accreditation: NASPAA
- Credit Hours: 40
- GRE: Not required
- Tuition: $1,890 (PCH)
- Acceptance Rate: 60%
- Enrollment: 120 students
Other Considerations:
- Dual / Combined Degree and Graduate Certificates: GW offers options to combine the MPA with certificates such as Budget & Public Finance, Nonprofit Management, etc.
- Application deadlines: Fall deadline generally April 1, with priority fellowship consideration by February 1; Spring deadlines also exist.
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
Of the five programs offering MPA programs in Washington, D.C., Gallaudet University, the University of the District of Columbia, and Strayer University each offer MPA programs that are not NASPAA-accredited. While they lack the common MPA accreditation, these programs are unique and offer tailored degree experiences for a diverse variety of students. An overview of these programs can be found here:
| Institution | Location | Accreditation | Credit Hours | Modality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of the District of Columbia | Washington, D.C. | NEASC | 39 | Online |
| Strayer University | Washington, D.C. | NEASC | 54 | Online |
Gallaudet University
- Washington, D.C.
- 39 Credit Hours
- Online + Hybrid
Program:
Masters of Public Administration (MPA)
Program Overview:
Gallaudet offers a unique bilingual MPA program in both American Sign Language (ASL) and English for deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing students looking for a career in the public sector. Students must demonstrate ASL competency before the end of their final semester. A capstone is taken in the final semester of study.
Unique Components:
- Bilingual Instruction: Courses are offered in ASL and English, using ASL‐English bilingual pedagogy.
- Two- or Three-Year Pace: Sample plans allow for completion over two years (full-time pace) or three years (if part-time or spreading out courses) depending on student schedule.
- Focus on Social Equity & Deaf Community: Included in mission and teaching philosophy are emphases on social equity, inclusion, preparing leaders who can serve intersectional communities and particularly the Deaf/hard of hearing.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online, hybrid
- Accreditation: NEASC
- Credit Hours: 39
- GRE: Not required
- Tuition: $10,377 (PSR)
- Acceptance Rate: 60%
- Enrollment: 451 students
Other Considerations:
- Flexible Track Options: Students may choose a fully online track (synchronous every two weeks via Zoom) or a hybrid track (with on-campus meetings every two weeks) to balance other commitments.
Career Outlook
Washington, D.C. offers one of the nation’s richest landscapes for public administration careers, thanks to its role as the federal capital and its concentration of nonprofit, international, and advocacy organizations. MPA graduates can find opportunities across federal agencies, local D.C. government, policy think tanks, and global NGOs.
- Federal Government Roles: Graduates can pursue positions like Management and Program Analyst with agencies such as the U.S. Department of State, where analysts evaluate programs and provide guidance on efficiency and performance.
- Local Government Administration: The District government hires roles such as Budget Analyst with the Office of the Chief Financial Officer, overseeing financial planning and resource allocation.
- Nonprofit and NGO Management: Organizations headquartered in D.C., such as the Urban Institute, recruit Policy Analysts to evaluate and design programs in areas like housing, health, and social policy.
- International Policy & Development: Agencies like USAID offer careers as Foreign Service Officers and Program Officers, designing and implementing development programs worldwide.
- Advocacy & Government Relations: National associations and advocacy groups in D.C. hire Government Affairs Specialists to manage relationships with legislators and influence public policy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes pursuing an MPA in Washington, D.C. unique compared to other locations?
A: Students in D.C. are immersed in the heart of U.S. public service. Opportunities to intern or work at federal agencies, national nonprofits, think tanks, and international organizations are unmatched. Networking and professional development are deeply integrated into D.C.-based programs.
Q: Are online or hybrid MPA options available in D.C.?
A: Yes. American University offers a fully online MPA program, designed for professionals nationwide. Other universities provide hybrid or executive formats, combining online coursework with in-person intensives in Washington, D.C.
Q: Do these MPA programs have international or global components?
A: Absolutely. Many D.C. programs emphasize international governance, diplomacy, and global policy given the city’s concentration of embassies, NGOs, and international organizations. Georgetown, for example, integrates global affairs perspectives, while GWU offers strong ties to international development policy.
Q: How long does it typically take to complete an MPA in Washington, D.C.?
A: Most programs are designed for completion in two years of full-time study. However, many students in D.C. pursue their degree part-time while working in government or nonprofits, stretching the timeline to three or four years. Executive and accelerated tracks are also available.
Q: What career opportunities are available for MPA graduates in D.C.?
A: Career options are broad and diverse: policy analyst roles in federal agencies, nonprofit management positions in advocacy organizations, research roles in think tanks, program management with international NGOs, and leadership positions in local D.C. government. The city’s role as the nation’s capital makes it one of the strongest job markets for public service professionals.
Q: Do D.C.-based MPA programs offer dual degrees or interdisciplinary pathways?
A: Yes. Many universities in D.C. allow students to pursue joint degrees that combine the MPA with fields such as law (JD), business (MBA), international relations, or public health. These options prepare graduates for leadership roles that cross disciplinary boundaries.
