A survey of public policy formulation processes. Emphasis is on the parameters of policy formulation as well as social planning and impact variables. Both policy processes and relevant content areas are stressed. To ensure an in-depth exposure to areas of special interest, students complete 9 credit hours in one of six areas of concentration . Students wishing to individually tailor an area of specialization work with the Director of Graduate Studies to design a program specific to their needs.
Students also take a three credit hour elective.
The MPA program concludes with the opportunity to gain professional experience during an internship. The program of study provides the student with exposure to and understanding of budget development and implementation, public revenue systems, the monetary system, bank relationships, financial analysis and financial information systems. Specific positions would include budget analyst, bond marketing analyst, bond rating specialist and controller. Policy Analysis - This concentration provides students the ability to analyze and interpret qualitative and quantitative data, conduct and present results of quantitative and qualitative analyses, and communicate complex ideas in a concise, straightforward manner. It equips students with knowledge of the health care system, skills for analyzing policy issues in health care and capabilities for managing public health care agencies.