Public Administration: The UDC Edge

Located in the heart of the nation’s capitol, the University of the District of Columbia is an affordable and high quality educational option, attentive to your needs and committed to your success. You will find many opportunities to apply your MPA education right here in Washington, D.C.

As a land-grant institution, UDC’s mission of service to the District of Columbia community infuses all aspects of campus life, which makes for a rich and fulfilling academic experience.

Master’s Degree (MPA) in Public Administration

We’ve all had some exposure to how government works. But maybe you think it could be better. Maybe you see an opportunity for improved customer service, more efficient operations, more accessible officials or more easily understood processes. If you have the will and commitment to effect change, we can give you the tools and insights to implement it.

The master of public administration degree program at the University of the District of Columbia prepares you for a management career in both government and nonprofit organizations. Whether you’re early career or mid-career, this program gives you the education and perspectives necessary to advance and make a difference in the public sector.

Student Learning Objectives

Unpon completion of this program, students will be able to:

  1. Students will be able to evaluate the value of diverse environments and public service
  2. Students will be able to prepare scholarly papers
  3. Students will be able to present their work in front of groups
  4. Students will be able to identify ethical issues and problems in an organizations to enable the organization to function in an ethical manner

Related Links

Curriculum and Requirements in the Public Administration Graduate Program

The MPA is earned after the completion of a program consisting of 39 semester credits. Twenty one 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 one capstone project or thesis or 2 electives. The course of study can be completed by full-time students in four regular semesters.

Program of Study – Master of Public Administration

Student Organizations and Activities in the Public Administration Graduate Program

Nonprofit Leadership Alliance (NLA) Student Association

Faculty Spotlight: UDC Public Administration Graduate Program

Career Pathways and Prospects

Graduates from our master’s of public administration program are in demand for government jobs in the area, both at the District and federal level. UDC’s MPA program prepares you for a career as a public manager, planning specialist, or policy analyst in governmental, nonprofit and labor organizations. For instance, 2007 graduate Kenneth Ellerbe is now fire and EMS chief for the District of Columbia. The MPA degree also gives mid-career employees an opportunity to learn new skills and advance their careers.

Contact info:

E: sbpa@udc.edu | T: 202.274.7000 | F: 202.274.7105