Public Administration, M.P.A.

The MPA program develops advanced knowledge of public administration, policy, and organizational management with a focus on ethical leadership and public service. Students study areas such as public policy, budgeting, organizational behavior, and program evaluation while learning to navigate the political and social environments that shape public institutions.

The Master of Public Administration prepares students to lead and manage organizations in government, nonprofit, and public service sectors. Through applied coursework, case-based learning, and a required final project, students build skills in decision-making, communication, and evidence-based problem-solving. Flexible evening and online course options support working professionals, while faculty mentorship and community engagement opportunities prepare graduates for leadership roles or continued graduate study.

Accreditation

The MPA program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), which represents the global standard in public service education and is the recognized worldwide accreditor for universities offering degrees in public administration, public policy, public affairs, nonprofit management, and related areas.

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Program Expected Student Outcomes

The MPA curriculum offers courses that emphasize the importance of ethics and how to solve complex organizational dilemmas and implement sustainable solutions and integrates evidence-based decision-making and problem-solving approaches throughout its courses. Upon completion of the MPA program, students will be able to:

Lead and manage in public governance.
Participate in and contribute to the policy process.
Analyze, synthesize, think critically, solve problems and make decisions.
Articulate and apply a public service perspective.
Communicate and interact with a diverse and changing workforce and citizenry.

MPA Program Data and Outcomes

Career Outcomes

Graduates develop transferable skills in leadership, policy analysis, budgeting, and organizational management that apply across public, nonprofit, and private sectors.

Public Administration Manager – $98,000 (median)
City or County Manager – $95,000–$150,000
Policy Analyst – $75,000 (median)
Nonprofit Director – $80,000 (median)
Budget Analyst – $79,000 (median)
Program Manager (Public Sector) – $85,000–$110,000

What You'll Study

Our academic catalog has detailed information about what you'll study, like courses, hours needed for completion, and other requirements.

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How to Apply

You'll need certain documents and meet certain requirements in order to apply. Read about them on our admissions pages.

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Mission Statement

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree program at Governors State University's College of Arts and Sciences prepares students to serve as administrators in the nonprofit sector, all levels of government, and private organizations. The MPA program provides a high-quality education to a diverse student body while engaging in scholarly activities and community service. The program encourages students to become civically engaged and advances students' practical knowledge for career advancement in the nonprofit, public, and private sectors. The MPA curriculum is designed to offer courses that emphasize the importance of ethics, how to solve complex organizational dilemmas and implement sustainable solutions.

Building upon this strong foundation, the MPA curriculum integrates evidence-based decision-making and problem-solving approaches throughout its courses, necessary for addressing complex social challenges and implementing effective, sustainable solutions in the public sector. By mastering these methodologies, students enhance their analytical skills and practical knowledge to make meaningful contributions to the effectiveness of public services and programs. The stories of GovState MPA alumni prove that our graduates emerge as competent public administrators committed to excellence in the pursuit of public service missions and able to drive positive change within their communities.

Learn More About MPA Program Alumni at Governors State University

Governors State University offers several honor societies to showcase the excellence of our students. The MPA Program is a member of Pi Alpha Alpha (PAA), the National Honor Society for Public Affairs and Administration. This PAA honor society recognizes outstanding undergraduate and graduate students in public administration, public policy, and public affairs. Membership is by invitation only.

The advisor for the GovState chapter is Dr. Mary Bruce. She can be reached at 708.235.7627, or mclark@govst.edu.

For more information about the Honor Societies at Governors State University visit GovState Honor Societies.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Graduate students at Governors State University have access to several financial aid and scholarship options to help make advanced study more affordable. To access federal student aid, including unsubsidized loans up to annual limits, graduate students must complete the FAFSA each year using GovState's school code (009145) and be enrolled at least half-time.

GovState's Scholarship Universe platform matches graduate students to institutional and external funding opportunities based on individual profiles and responses, and sends notifications when new awards are posted. Some students may also qualify for graduate assistantships, on-campus employment, or discipline-specific awards that provide tuition assistance, stipends, or both.

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