The Master of Public Administration is designed to serve the educational and practical interests of individuals who are currently working in or plan to work in administrative or leadership positions in public organizations, including non-profit organizations. In particular the program seeks to prepare individuals for leadership positions in public and non-private institutions. The focus of the program is on core concepts and skills needed by public administrators to effectively carry out their leadership functions. The program promotes the view that effective public organizations foster a learning community environment and organizational members should be reflective practitioners who have the skills to act ethically and effectively. Eight courses are required, of which one is the capstone course.
Students elect four additional courses based on their interest.
Two elective courses must be taken from SOC 602, SOC 605, PS 650. Students whose previous education warrants may be exempt from one or more of the required courses. Their course of study will include additional elective courses to make up the 36 hours. The capstone is the functional equivalent of the comprehensive examination and completion of this culminating course will result in a professional project based on the student's interests. The project will integrate the students program of study.