Master’s Degree in 
Public Administration (Online)

Public service organizations take many forms, working on behalf of many causes; but they all share one thing in common. They all require capable, ethical leaders who know how to guide them through a future that’s always changing. With a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Monroe’s King Graduate School, you can develop the skills you need to be that kind of leader. 

Whether you’re a pre-service or career professional, a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree can enhance your expertise, preparing you for the growing challenges in both the government and nonprofit sectors. From emergency services to environmental regulation, or from international policy issues to community health: whatever your public service goals may be, we’ll be there to help you meet them. 

And thanks to our innovative remote learning technology, we can be there on a schedule — and in a location — that works with the life you have now. Our online MPA program offers unparalleled flexibility, so you can keep moving forward without leaving your responsibilities behind. 

Find Out About Our Hybrid MPA Degree

Public service is about building a better future for everyone. To do that, you need to invest in your own future, too. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, specialized public service occupations are growing faster — sometimes much faster — than the average rate for all occupations. Nonprofit fundraising; social and community service management, and urban and regional planning are just a few of the career pathways that will continue to expand in the coming years. They’re public administration jobs that require a high level of skill — the kind for which we designed our online MPA program. 

The opportunities are there. The more prepared you are, the better you’ll be able to seize them. 

Candidates for the online Master’s Degree in Public Administration must fulfill the following requirements: 

• Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year institution of higher education.
• Candidates must submit:
  •  A completed application for admission.
  •  A 500-word essay describing your career goals and why you want to pursue a master’s degree.
  • A current résumé.
  • Transcripts from all prior educational institutions attended. 
  • Two (2) professional letters of recommendation. 
• MPA candidates must also participate in a pre-admission interview.

Learn more about how to apply to Monroe University.

How Much Does an MPA Degree Cost? 

You’re dedicated to serving the public. We’re dedicated to serving you. That’s why, on top of competitive tuition and fees and manageable payment plans, we offer financial aid services that are second to none. It’s also why U.S. News & World Report has named us one of the Best Value Schools in Regional Universities North for years.

Our mission is to make great education affordable. Every Monroe student works with a dedicated financial aid counselor to secure the maximum possible aid package in the form of grants, scholarships, and loans. And if you work for one of our more than 400 partner organizations, you could be eligible for a Corporate Partnership Grant covering up to 20% of your tuition.

Our MPA students have gone on to leadership positions in public, nonprofit, and private organizations, with public administration jobs that include: 

• Executive director
• Development director
• Finance manager/director
• Urban and regional planner
• Budget analyst
• Financial analyst
• Policy analyst
• Human resources manager/director
• Public relations manager 
• Market research analyst

Whether your goal is to work on the local, national, or even international scale, you’ll be ready to take the next step in your public service career. 

View factsheet.