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Public administration professionals work for progressive social change. They perform various management and policy implementation activities for public organizations. A master of public administration (MPA) program often includes coursework in research methods, ethics, leadership, and public policy. Public administration degrees also usually cultivate skills in public sector financial management and budgeting.
Public administration master's degrees can support various related careers. For example, degree-holders can work as administrative services and facilities managers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these professionals earned a median annual salary of $96,940 in 2019. The BLS projects jobs for these managers to grow 6% between 2019 and 2029.
Common Questions People Ask About Public Administration
What can you do with a master's in public administration?
This degree can support careers in policy analysis, public relations, compliance, and fundraising. Graduates often work for governmental or nonprofit organizations.
How long does it take to get a master's in public administration?
Master's programs usually require about two years to complete. However, enrollees' prior coursework, program requirements, and pacing can impact this timeframe.
What are the major subjects in public administration?
Foundational public administration topics include policy, organizational leadership, personnel management, and ethics.
What is an MPA degree salary?
PayScale salary data from March 2021 indicates that MPA graduates average $68,599 annually. However, salaries vary widely by position, experience level, employer, and sector.
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Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Why Get a Degree in Public Administration?
Earning a master's in public administration brings many professional benefits. Graduate-level study affords valuable networking opportunities with other accomplished students, public administration professors, and administrators who oversee student internships at real-world sites. MPA programs also cultivate advanced leadership skills and provide specialized knowledge.
Many working professionals seeking career advancement pursue an MPA to meet minimum degree requirements for upper-level, high-paying administrative roles. For example, public relations and fundraising managers earned a median annual salary of $116,180 in 2019, according to the BLS.
Earning this degree online often allows enrollees to advance their education while continuing their career. See below for more information about an online MPA in financing.
How Much Does a Public Administration Degree Cost?
The cost of earning an MPA varies widely based on institution type and location. The College Board's 2020 Trends in College Pricing report indicates that in-state tuition averages $10,560 annually at public, four-year schools. Averaging $27,020 annually, out-of-state tuition at the same schools costs nearly three times as much. Private nonprofit school tuition averages $37,650. However, high academic merit and financial need sometimes qualify students for large scholarships at these schools.
MPA students typically pay the lowest tuition at public institutions. Enrollees can also save money by pursuing their degree online. Many programs feature discounted tuition rates for online learners, and some schools permit out-of-state students to pay in-state tuition rates. Online students also typically avoid expenses associated with relocating, campus residency, and commuting.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
Public administration master's graduates usually earn above-average salaries. According to March 2021 PayScale salary data, professionals with an MPA earned an average annual salary of $68,599. Salaries depend heavily on sector, position, credentials, and employer.
Federal or local government jobs often pay quite well. According to PayScale data from March 2021, policy analysts average nearly $60,000 annually and city managers average nearly $92,000 annually. Some MPAs work as training and development managers, who earn an median annual salary of $115,640, according to the BLS.
Courses in Public Administration
Public administration master's degrees usually require 30-45 credits, depending on prior coursework. MPA programs typically include capstone internships and projects that develop advanced research, analysis, writing, and leadership skills.
Core coursework usually includes research methods, public policy, and ethics. Most programs feature various specialized curriculum concentrations or electives in areas such as education, policy analysis, governmental administration, or nonprofit administration. See below for three common public administration courses.
Public Administration Research Methods
This core course helps learners develop skills in quantitative analysis, statistics, and data analysis. Students learn about various ways that public organizations use data. This course often serves as a prerequisite for advanced courses, senior seminars, and capstone research projects.
Diversity in Public Administration
This required course covers strategies and techniques for creating and supporting diverse leadership in public organizations. Enrollees study the professional advancement barriers that women and minorities often encounter in the workplace. The course also cultivates cultural awareness; sensitivity; and competency in working with people of diverse races, sexual orientations, ages, and abilities.
Internship
During their second year, master's in public administration students typically complete an internship with a relevant local organization. Interns receive mentorship from public service leaders and apply their coursework knowledge and skills in real-world contexts. This internship may include a capstone project or thesis component.
Certifications and Licensure for Public Administration
The MPA meets or exceeds degree requirements for many public administration careers, but some jobs may require additional professional certification. The following three credentials may benefit MPA-holders with corresponding career aspirations.
The National Certified Public Manager Consortium awards this certification to graduates of 300-hour, NCPMC-certified CPM programs. CPM-holders may work in various roles, including public works director, mayor, government works director, and city administrator.
School administrators such as principals or superintendents usually need certification from their state board. Requirements vary, but most candidates need professional experience, passing exam results, and a related master's degree.
The Government Finance Officers Association grants CPFO certification to candidates who pass seven public finance-related exams within five years. Examination topics include debt management, procurement, risk management, and compensation and benefits. CPFOs often work as finance directors, accounting managers, or financial controllers.
Scholarships for Public Administration
Many college students qualify for scholarships based on academic merit, identity, field, and financial need. Public administration graduate students may qualify for opportunities like the three below. These awards do not require repayment, although some entail a public service commitment.
This scholarship supports graduate students attending accredited U.S. or Canadian schools and researching common interest communities or associations. Applicants submit a detailed research proposal, and recipients eventually submit their research project for publication by the FCA.
This Michigan Townships Association scholarship serves public administration program enrollees at Michigan colleges or universities. Eligible applicants plan on local government careers and submit recommendation letters and essays.
Members of the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) may apply. Launched in 2006, this fellowship program is open to graduate students and professionals who graduated within three years of applying. Applicants must submit a resume, personal statement, recommendation letter from an ASPA member in good standing, and an essay.
Online Master's In Public Administration Programs
We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
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from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 Online Master’s In Public Administration
Belhaven University
Jackson, MS
4 years
Online + Campus
Belhaven University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers from its campus in Jackson, Mississippi. Learners across the country can pursue the school's 14 online master's programs without relocating.
The institution offers an online master of public administration for busy students who want to earn their public administration degree while maintaining employment. After completing the master's degree in public administration, graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career. Support services including faculty mentorship and career counseling prepare learners to succeed academically and professionally.
Enrollees at the school access affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can qualify for federal financial aid programs. Scholarships and fellowships can also help learners reduce the overall cost of a degree.
Belhaven University Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 95%
Students Receiving Loans: 69%
Total Master's Programs: 15
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,826
Out-of-state
$25,826
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,170
Out-of-state
$10,170
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
4,574
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Master’s In Public Administration
St. Joseph's College New York
Brooklyn, NY
4 years
Campus
St. Joseph's College New York enrolls about 304 students who take at least some online courses. Graduate students can earn their online MS in human services leadership at the college. The accredited curriculum blends theoretical and practical knowledge. The degree prepares graduates for careers in public administration with advanced skills and knowledge.
The school maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 10-to-1, which gives learners one-on-one attention from faculty. The program's website provides additional information about online student services. The college offers affordable tuition rates and financial aid opportunities. This makes the program an affordable option for learners pursuing a master's degree on a budget. Students can expect a graduation rate of 62% at the school.
St. Joseph's College New York Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 340
Graduate Tuition: $19,350/year in-state and out-of-state
St. Joseph's College New York has been accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$28,590
Out-of-state
$28,590
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$19,350
Out-of-state
$19,350
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
1,185
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
29%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#3 Online Master’s In Public Administration
Park University
Parkville, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
From its campus in Parkville, Missouri, Park University offers in-person and online graduate programs. Distance learners can earn online master's degrees from the private institution. The school's flexible master of public administration program helps students earn an affordable public administration degree.
The online public administration program features core classes. The curriculum also includes upper-level coursework exploring advanced public administration topics. Faculty members provide mentorship, and graduate students can pursue internships to prepare for careers in the field.
After earning the master of public administration, graduates often qualify for leadership positions. Master's students and alumni can work with faculty advisors and career counselors.
Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. Scholarships, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs can help distance learners fund their master's studies. At the school, 93% of students obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,999
Out-of-state
$7,999
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,012
Out-of-state
$6,012
Retention Rate
66%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
11,415
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
78%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Online Master’s In Public Administration
Northern Michigan University
Marquette, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners can enroll at Northern Michigan University to pursue respected master's degrees in many fields, including public administration. The Marquette-based institution's student population includes 1,949 distance learners. The convenient, accessible format of online learning appeals to working professionals and busy adults seeking a graduate degree.
Degree-seekers complete a rigorous curriculum and gain field-specific training while fulfilling requirements for the master of public administration. Graduate students consult with faculty mentors to select courses based on their professional goals. The flexible program emphasizes industry knowledge. After earning the master's degree, graduates often secure advanced public administration roles. The institution's career services help current and former students locate and secure professional opportunities.
Learners pursuing a master's degree from the school can access support services including career advising and financial aid counseling. Graduate students at the accredited institution can take out federal loans to cover costs. Learners who need additional funding can secure private scholarships and institutional fellowships.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,758
Out-of-state
$16,380
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,072
Out-of-state
$12,528
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
7,732
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
25%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Online Master’s In Public Administration
Lindenwood University
Saint Charles, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
Lindenwood University educates graduate degree-seekers online and in person and at its Saint Charles campus. Learners throughout the country can pursue an online master of public administration from the private institution. Graduates often benefit from increased public administration career opportunities after earning their master's degree.
Graduate students can discuss the public administration field and plan their academic track with experienced faculty advisors. The program features a rigorous curriculum that meets high academic standards. Master's students hone analytical and leadership skills while completing program coursework.
Learners pursuing their master's degree online benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. Degree-seekers can discuss funding options with financial aid counselors. The school's affordable tuition rates make graduate studies more accessible.
Lindenwood University Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 56
Total Online Programs: 11
Number of Online Students: 4,457
Average Per-Credit Price: $486
Graduate Tuition In-State: $18,000
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $18,000
Transfer Credits Counted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,000
Out-of-state
$18,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,000
Out-of-state
$18,000
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
8,392
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Online Master’s In Public Administration
Texas A&M University
College Station, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Degree-seekers can enroll in Texas A&M University graduate programs online or on campus in College Station. The public institution delivers online master's programs that are ideal for busy learners. The school's graduate options include a flexible and affordable executive master of public service and administration.
During the first year of the program, master's students take core classes in public administration. The curriculum also features advanced public administration coursework and elective options. Faculty mentorship, experiential learning opportunities, and electives help graduate students individualize the program.
After completing the public administration program, master's degree-holders can apply to leadership roles, which often pay higher salaries. During their master's studies and after graduation, individuals can access professional assistance from faculty advisors and career counselors.
Degree-seekers with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. Learners can also use scholarships and fellowships to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. According to the school, 76% of students fund their education through financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,941
Out-of-state
$34,190
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,677
Out-of-state
$18,700
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
68,726
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
14%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Online Master’s In Public Administration
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Omaha, NE
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Nebraska at Omaha educates graduate degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs. The public institution's offerings include an online master of public administration for distance learners throughout the country. The affordable, accessible program prepares working professionals to pursue leadership positions.
Master's students and faculty advisors discuss and analyze complex issues related to the field and students' professional futures. Enrollees pursuing the master's degree complete a rigorous curriculum that fosters field-specific knowledge and transferable skills. In addition to knowledge, coursework emphasizes industry-specific analytical and leadership abilities.
Learners pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. The institution's dedicated financial aid counselors work with degree-seekers as they locate and apply for educational funding. Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional awards to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree.
University of Nebraska at Omaha Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 39
Total Online Programs: 24
Number of Online Students: 7,996
Graduate Tuition In-State: $5,558
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $14,440
Applies Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,224
Out-of-state
$19,488
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,558
Out-of-state
$14,440
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
15,153
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Online Master’s In Public Administration
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Situated in Huntsville, Texas, Sam Houston State University has one of the best online course offerings in the country. In the accredited master of public administration program, graduate students learn through a rigorous curriculum taught by experts. A distance learning format can also mean savings on transportation, childcare, and other expenses. The program educates learners through video lectures, assignments, and class discussions.
The school can distribute federal financial aid, since it is an accredited institution. Applicants submit school transcripts for admission.
Sam Houston State University at a Glance:
Total Online Student Enrollment: 11,475
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Tuition for Grad Students: $5,765 in-state; $13,361 out-of-state
Amount of Aid Awarded Per Learner: $9,014
Average Price After Financial Aid: $13,055
Sam Houston State University holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, an independent accrediting agency.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,856
Out-of-state
$15,984
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,765
Out-of-state
$13,361
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
21,558
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Online Master’s In Public Administration
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, AR
4 years
Online + Campus
Arkansas State University educates distance learners through accessible, high-quality online graduate programs. Along with on-campus programs in Jonesboro, the public institution delivers 42 online programs. The school's master's programs include a respected master of public administration with a public management track. The online public administration program features flexible enrollment options, which are ideal for busy students.
In addition to fulfilling core requirements, master's-level learners gain specialized knowledge during advanced public administration classes. Students prepare for specialized careers and gain theoretical and practical knowledge during experiential learning opportunities. While most master's degree-seekers graduate in 1-2 years, part-time enrollment may extend degree completion time. The program website provides specific application details, including requirements and deadlines.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Residents of Arkansas pay an average graduate tuition rate of $4,986 at the institution, and out-of-state graduate students pay an average of $9,972. Degree-seekers at the school pay a per-credit tuition rate averaging $301. Enrollees with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. Of the school's students, 97% receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,540
Out-of-state
$13,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,986
Out-of-state
$9,972
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
13,356
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Online Master’s In Public Administration
Tarleton State University
Stephenville, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
A top-ranked school located in Stephenville, Texas, Tarleton State University offers master's programs on its campus and online. The public institution delivers an online master of public administration, which is ideal for busy learners. Public administration professionals often maintain employment while enrolled in the flexible program.
Faculty advisors help graduate students understand complex issues in the public administration field. The program's rigorous curriculum provides foundational knowledge through core classes. Coursework emphasizes industry-specific analytical and leadership skills.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Degree-seekers can discuss funding options with financial aid counselors.
Tarleton State University Numbers:
Online Master's Programs: 27
Total Online Programs: 18
Number of Online Students: 7,073
Graduate Tuition In-State: $4,137
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $11,733
Transfer Credits Counted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,526
Out-of-state
$14,296
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,137
Out-of-state
$11,733
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
13,166
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#11 Online Master’s In Public Administration
University of Idaho
Moscow, ID
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Idaho educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers online and at its Moscow campus. The school offers four bachelor's programs and seven master's programs in an online format that is ideal for busy learners.
Degree-seekers at the institution can pursue an online master of public administration. Learners who are new to the field and those with established public administration careers can benefit from the graduate program. Student support services, including faculty mentorship and career counseling, help learners succeed academically and professionally.
Online enrollees at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can submit the FAFSA to receive federal grants and loans. Additional financial aid options include private scholarships and fellowships.
University of Idaho Numbers:
Students Receiving Aid: 96%
Students Receiving Loans: 38%
Total Master's Programs: 77
Total Online Master's Programs: 77
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,182
Out-of-state
$25,418
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,754
Out-of-state
$26,990
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
11,926
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
32%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#12 Online Master’s In Public Administration
California State University, Dominguez Hills
Carson, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners throughout the country can pursue high-quality online graduate programs from California State University, Dominguez Hills. The public institution delivers eight online programs, including six master's programs for distance students. Graduate degree-seekers can enroll in the master of public administration program. Students with personal or professional obligations often benefit from the online public administration program's flexible scheduling options.
The master's program features core coursework, which helps learners prepare for high-level public administration classes. Experiential learning opportunities allow students to apply theoretical industry knowledge in practical contexts. While most master's programs require 1-2 years, part-time degree-seekers may take longer to graduate. An admissions advisor can provide specific application details, including requirements and deadlines.
Students pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. The institution's graduate tuition rates average $7,176 for in-state students, while students who do not reside in California pay an average of $16,680 for graduate tuition. Enrollees with financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Of the school's students, 92% obtain financial aid to fund their education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
17,977
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#13 Online Master’s In Public Administration
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill delivers graduate-level programs for online learners throughout the country. The public institution's academic offerings include 14 online master's programs. Degree-seekers can enroll in a variety of master's programs, including a master of public administration. Busy students balancing work and school can benefit from the online public administration program's scheduling flexibility.
The graduate-level curriculum comprises core coursework and advanced public administration classes. The rigorous curriculum blends theoretical and practical knowledge, with an emphasis on industry-specific skills. Master's degree-seekers usually earn their degree in public administration after 1-2 years of full-time study. Prospective learners can contact the institution for details about application deadlines and requirements.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates and offers institutional funding for eligible applicants. Graduate tuition rates at the institution average $10,552 for North Carolina residents and $28,278 for out-of-state students. The school's online graduate programs cost an average per-credit rate of $1,767. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can submit the FAFSA to receive federal grants and loans. Of the school's students, 65% obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,019
Out-of-state
$34,198
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,552
Out-of-state
$28,278
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
23%
Students Enrolled
29,877
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
12%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#14 Online Master’s In Public Administration
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
With a main campus in California, San Diego State University delivers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. The school offers two bachelor's programs and six master's programs in an online format that is ideal for busy learners.
The institution's online master of public administration program benefits distance degree-seekers seeking career advancement in public administration. After earning the master's degree in public administration, graduates can launch a new career in the field. The school delivers services including academic advising, experiential learning programs, and career counseling.
The online program makes affordability a priority. At the accredited institution, students who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. Learners pursuing a master's degree can research additional financial aid options, including private scholarships and fellowships.
San Diego State University Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 60%
Students Receiving Loans: 27%
Total Master's Programs: 82
Total Online Master's Programs: 82
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
34%
Students Enrolled
35,544
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#15 Online Master’s In Public Administration
Texas A&M International University
Laredo, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Texas A&M International University is a leader in online learning. The master of public administration uses a rigorous curriculum taught by experts in the field. Like on-campus students, online learners work with advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff. The curriculum includes video lectures, assignments, and class discussions.
Learners may receive federal financial aid while attending the accredited institution. Prospective students submit school transcripts for admission.
Texas A&M International University Fast Facts:
Number of Online Master's Degrees: 8
Graduate School Tuition: $3,350 in-state; $10,946 out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,806
Average Net Price With Aid: $3,323
The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,818
Out-of-state
$13,946
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,350
Out-of-state
$10,946
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
8,305
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#16 Online Master’s In Public Administration
National University
La Jolla, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in La Jolla, California, National University educates graduate degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs. Distance learners can earn an online master of public administration from the private institution. Professionals currently employed in the public administration field often qualify for career advancement after graduation.
Graduate students can discuss the public administration field and plan their academic track with experienced faculty advisors. While completing the master's program, enrollees take core and specialized courses to gain a solid foundation in the field. Master's students hone analytical and leadership skills while completing program coursework.
Learners at the school access affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. The institution's dedicated financial aid counselors work with degree-seekers as they locate and apply for educational funding. Graduate learners can also qualify for federal student loan programs.
National University at a Glance:
Online Master's Programs: 54
Total Online Programs: 98
Number of Online Students: 8,769
Graduate Tuition In-State: $15,480
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $15,480
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,480
Out-of-state
$15,480
Retention Rate
50%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
16,670
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#17 Online Master’s In Public Administration
Georgia College & State University
Milledgeville, GA
4 years
Online + Campus
Georgia College & State University ranks among the top online master's programs for public administration. With 2,007 distance students, the public institution also delivers programs on campus in Milledgeville. Learners balancing academics with personal or professional obligations can take advantage of online MPA programs' flexible scheduling options.
While enrolled in the master of public administration program, degree-seekers complete a rigorous curriculum comprising core and specialized coursework. The master's program features electives, allowing students to tailor the curriculum to their professional goals. Learners in the online program develop specialized industry skills and knowledge. After earning the master's degree in public administration, graduates often qualify for promotions or raises. Master's students can benefit from the institution's career services as they prepare to enter the workforce.
The school delivers career advising and financial aid counseling to help graduate learners plan their academic and professional futures. Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree. Additional funding options for graduate-level learners include private scholarships and institutional fellowships.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,508
Out-of-state
$26,688
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,292
Out-of-state
$18,846
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
7,031
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#18 Online Master’s In Public Administration
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Orlando, the University of Central Florida educates degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs. Learners with personal or professional responsibilities often enroll in one of the school's 19 online bachelor's programs or 26 online master's programs.
Degree-seekers at the institution can pursue an online master of public administration. After earning the master's degree in public administration, graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career. Faculty advising, career counseling, and experiential learning programs prepare graduates for the workforce.
The school charges online enrollees affordable tuition rates. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can qualify for federal financial aid programs. Additional financial aid options include private scholarships and fellowships.
University of Central Florida Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 92%
Students Receiving Loans: 35%
Total Master's Programs: 75
Total Online Master's Programs: 75
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,916
Out-of-state
$25,759
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
69,402
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#19 Online Master’s In Public Administration
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Nebraska, Bellevue University offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Online learners can pursue the school's distance education programs. Students interested in public administration careers benefit from the accessibility of the master of public administration.
The rigorous graduate-level curriculum prepares enrollees to succeed in public administration careers. Learners can pursue the online public administration program to access flexible enrollment options that make earning a degree easier. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate in 1-2 years, unless enrolled part time.
At the accredited institution, graduate students qualify for federal aid programs and other forms of financial aid. Of enrollees, 37% fund their degree through student loans, according to the school's data. In addition, 84% of students receive some form of financial aid to cover degree costs.
Bellevue University Numbers:
Total Programs: 84
Number of Online Programs: 79
Online Master's Programs: 25
Number of Online Students: 11,008
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Allowed: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$7,176
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,530
Out-of-state
$10,530
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
11,637
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#20 Online Master’s In Public Administration
Delaware State University
Dover, DE
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Dover, Delaware State University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online. Learners throughout the country can pursue online master's programs from the public institution. The flexible MPA program allows students to continue working while earning their public administration degree.
During the first year of the online public administration program, master's students take core courses. The program also includes advanced public administration classes and electives, which allow degree-seekers to tailor the curriculum to their interests. Faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities allow graduate students to customize learning outcomes based on their career goals.
After earning the master of public administration, graduates often qualify for raises and promotions. The institution's career resources include faculty advisors and career counselors, who help students locate job placements.
Degree-seekers with financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Learners can apply for grants and fellowships, along with tuition reimbursement programs through their employer. Of the school's graduate students, 98% obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,361
Out-of-state
$16,397
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,160
Out-of-state
$11,376
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
53%
Students Enrolled
4,768
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
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