The Master of Public Administration program is designed to prepare graduate students for careers as public managers, planning specialists and policy analysts in governmental, as well as nonprofit and labor organizations. It also provides mid-career employees an opportunity to enhance, improve and acquire new concepts and perspectives for advancement to their careers. In addition to the required core courses, students choose one of the following areas of emphasis: Public Management, or Labor Studies/Human Resources Management. Admission Requirements:
General requirements for admission are:
Candidacy Status:
Admission to graduate study in public administration is not equivalent to candidacy for the degree. The applicant who has completed the study of 18 graduate credits in which a minimum grade of "B" has been earned may become a degree candidate by filing an application with the chairperson of the Department of Management and Office Systems. Comprehensive Examination:
Some areas of emphasis require students to pass a written comprehensive examination which is normally taken during the final semester of the student's program of study. The last date for submission of application is October 15 for the examination administered in the Fall and March 15 for the examination given in the Spring. Writing Proficiency Examination:
The Graduate Write Proficiency Examination is required of all graduate students. Students must take the writing proficiency examination in the first semester of enrollment. Students must register to take the examination, which is administered only once each semester. Thesis Option:
The submission of an acceptable thesis, in lieu of six semester credits of course work, may be approved where the particular objectives make such action appropriate. Transfer Credit:
A maximum of nine semester credits may be granted for courses completed satisfactorily within the prior five years with grades of "B" or better at an accredited college or university. Transfer credits cannot be a part of a previously earned degree. Program Description:
The MPA is earned after the completion of a program consisting of 36-37 semester credits. Eighteen credits are devoted to the core, which must be taken by all students. Twelve credits are taken in the selected area of emphasis and six credits are required for thesis or electives. The course of study can be completed by full-time students in four regular semesters. Core Courses: Required of all MPA candidates
Area of Emphasis: One area of emphasis should be selected from the following list The requirements for each area appear below. Public Management:
Labor Studies/Human Resources Management:
Computer Information Systems:
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