The MPA degree program requires 39 graduate credits (3 credits per course): 21 credits in core courses, 12 credits in electives, 3 credits for a capstone course and a 3-credit, 150-hour internship. Internship is required of students who do not have relevant work experience, which consists of supervisory, managerial, or professional administrative work relevant to serving the public. The internship is waived for students with this experience before they enter the program or who gain it by working full-time or part-time during their enrollment in the program. If this occurs, students must apply for the internship waiver.
Transfer Credits and Course Substitutions
A student can transfer up to 15 nondegree PADM credits and up to 10 credits from an external institution. Students should read the Graduate School Policy GCAC-309 on Credit Transfer before submitting request. Credit Transfer request (rationale on why this request satisfies the Policy GCAC-309, transcripts, and corresponding course syllabi) should be submitted to the Administrative Support Assistant, the student’s academic advisor, and the Professor-in-Charge. Approval to any credits transfer toward the MPA degree must be granted by the student's academic adviser, the Professor-in-Charge, and the Graduate School.
Grade-Point Average and Time Limit
The program, including an internship in a public agency or nonprofit organization, requires 18 to 24 months of full-time study, or three to five years on a part-time basis. Students must have a 3.00 grade-point average to graduate. All course work and requirements must be completed within an five-year period from the time of first enrollment in the program.
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