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Master of Public Administration

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program is intended for those with career interests in public management, health and human services, government, and other public service and nonprofit organizations. The curriculum blends theoretical and applied concepts and assures “real-world” experiences for the novice administrator. In addition, it requires that students devote attention to general professional development. The MPA program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration.

Students may begin the program in any semester. Three courses (or 9 credits) per semester are considered a normal course load for full-time students. Part-time students typically take one or two 3-credit courses each semester and one or two courses during the summer session to maintain steady progress toward the degree. As of the Fall semester of 2016, there were 325 students enrolled in the MPA program (56 on campus, 269 online).

Program Mission and Goal

Mission: The Master of Public Administration program prepares individuals to assume leadership positions in public service careers and strengthens their professional skills to successfully work in government and non-profit organizations.

Goal: The MPA develops ethical and skilled leaders and professionals able to work effectively in an increasingly globalized and diverse world, who are competent as managers and analysts skilled in oral and written communications, and who share a commitment to public service values and democratic processes.

Employment of Graduates

Graduates of our resident MPA program most often find employment within local or regional government, domestic-oriented nonprofits, and the private sector (non-research). Graduates of the online program are most often employed in national and local/regional government, the private sector, and domestic-oriented nonprofits.

Master of Public Administration

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See Also

  • Brochure (PDF)
  • MPA Student Club at Penn State Harrisburg
  • Honor Society
  • Master of Public Administration (MPA) Program Guide
  • Request Information

Program Contacts

Administrative Support and Student Success Assistant
Autumn Wise
[email protected]

Professor-in-Charge
Bing Ran, Ph.D.

W159, Olmsted

Apply now
How to Apply

Graduate Program Virtual Visits

Lion Shrine and fountain on the quad at Penn State Harrisburg

Every Monday and Wednesday

Get Connected

This program is also available via World Campus.

For more information see the World Campus program listing

ACCREDITATION

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Public Administration Programs

Master of Public Administration
Doctor of Philosophy in Public Administration
Juris Doctor and Master of Public Administration
Certificate Program in Non-Profit Administration
Certificate Program in Public Budgeting and Financial Management
Certificate Program in Public Sector Human Resource Management
Certificate Program in Policy Analysis and Evaluation
Public Administration Overview

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