Public administration

Master of Public Administration

Woman walking outside in business attire near business buildings

Prepare for community management

Local, state and federal governments are built on a complex structure of systems, issues, ideas, processes and policies. In this program, you will examine the Leadership in the public sector demands a broad understanding of management. The Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree is for students interested in careers in the management of local governments and communities. The skills you’ll gain can be applied to careers in non-profit, state and federal agencies.

In this program you can expect to improve your critical thinking and analytical skills, earning practical experience you need to enhance your ability to serve the public interest. On-campus MPA and online MPA degrees are offered.

This is a non-thesis program. You will be required to complete a public service internship if you have not previously worked in the public or nonprofit sectors. If you have public service experience, you’ll complete field-based research in lieu of an internship.

Program core courses include: 

  • Public Administration Theory
  • Government Budgeting
  • Public Personnel Administration
  • Local Government Law, Politics and Administration
  • Research Methods for Local Government and Community Administration
Overview
Duration:
2.5 years, 36 credits
Locations:
Moscow, Online

Related Topics

Politics

Serve with confidence

Degree fit

This program could be a good fit if you:

  • Are interested in public service.
  • Want to work for the public or nonprofit sector.
  • Enjoy working with people.
  • Have strong leadership and management skills.
Career outcomes

Current job openings

2,230 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HI

Potential careers and starting salaries

  • General and Operations Managers
    $54,141
  • Postsecondary Communications Teachers
    $48,689
  • Regulatory Affairs Managers • Compliance Managers
    $48,420
  • Public Relations Specialists
    $47,289
  • Chief Sustainability Officers
    $91,572
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Career Services

* Career data provided by Lightcast.

Financial aid and scholarship opportunities

Financial aid

Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.

To maximize aid and scholarship possibilities, be sure to complete your FAFSA. For information on FAFSA deadlines and answers to common questions, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.

Plan ahead — estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.

Scholarships

Unlock scholarship opportunities at University of Idaho! When you apply to U of I, you're automatically considered for scholarships. We also offer a variety of scholarships based on experience, background and academic programs that student can apply for to help pay for college.

Explore available scholarships on our Scholarships website.

Clubs and involvement opportunities

Internships are required as part of the degree program; a waiver is possible for relevant work experience.

Application information

Applicants for the M.P.A. in public administration must meet the admission requirements below:

  • Education level: Bachelor’s degree
  • GPA: 3.0
  • GRE: No
  • TOEFL/IELTS: 96/7.0
  • Number of references: Three
  • Other requirements: No

Visit Graduate Admissions to learn more and start your application.

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