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Public Administration Master of Public Administration (MPA)

Accreditation Info

Fully Accredited

Marywood University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSHE). / ADDRESS / 3624 Market Street, 2nd Floor West, Philadelphia, PA 19104. | Phone: (267) 284-5000

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) follows the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA)'s accreditation guidelines.

Advance the Common Good with an MPA Degree

Public administration professionals serve communities and other public or non-profit entities to effect positive change and to advance the common good. The Master of Public Administration (MPA) at Marywood University is recognized among the best in the nation. It is an exclusive online 30-credit degree program that follows the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA)'s accreditation guidelines.

Our goal is to prepare students for challenging emergence in public administration as effective and innovative administrators, equipped with practical and real-world experiences, and to train them with the vital skills, evidence-based research, and theoretical framework needed to tackle the complex environment of public affairs.

The MPA degree program affords students with opportunities to get involved in public affairs as soon as they begin the program, focusing on civic engagement and public responsibilities on local, national, and international levels.

The curriculum combines evidence-based research, applied theory, and practical skill development to prepare students for conceptual, analytical, and ethical applications of administrative solutions to problems.

  • Completely online with full- or part-time options
  • Outstanding, experienced faculty, including Fulbright Scholars
  • Apply up to 12 MPA credits toward Marywood's Ph.D. program

Explore Dual-Degree Opportunities

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) and the Master of Social Work (MSW) at Marywood University offer a dual-degree program designed to assure the acquisition of both management and social work skills necessary for competence as a manager/administrator in the social work field.

This program is designed for those who wish to combine the development of administrative and managerial expertise with knowledge, skills, and values of the social work profession. The joint focus on public interest, policy, and management prepares students for a range of professional options and opportunities.

MPA/MSW dual-degree program opportunities

    Public Administration (GR) — David, 21 [GENERAL NON-TRADITIONAL] photo

    As an older student, I was impressed with the welcoming nature of all involved in my degree pursuit. From the guidance I received with my initial course, to the encouragement to be creative with all of my course work, I could not have had a more satisfying educational experience. If you could believe it, I was actually disappointed when I completed the program! Marywood University is an exceptional school with great atmosphere. I would encourage any prospective student to seriously consider Marywood as their school choice.

    David Bulzoni '21 Read All Testimonials

    Executive Master of Public Administration (EMPA) Option

    Fast Track to Success with Only 6 Courses (18 credits)

    Classes are completely online and asynchronous (no specific date/time for meeting). 

    Marywood University also offers an Executive Master of Public Administration degree option (EMPA). This path is specifically designed for career professionals in the public, nonprofit, and private sectors who are seeking graduate education and a degree in public policy and administration without taking time off from their careers.

    The EMPA brings together Marywood University’s expertise in professional studies with individuals and groups seeking to address challenging administrative issues in the public, nonprofit, and private sectors. The degree program, designed for working professionals with at least five years of post-bachelor’s degree experience, provides students with rigorous interdisciplinary training in management and administrative science.

    Students attend online PADM classes designed to fit their demanding professional lives while deploying their newly learned skills and knowledge in their chosen work. Engagement with practitioners in class is embedded into the curriculum and allows for practical application of skills alongside theoretical applications. Students can complete the 18 credit hours (6 courses) required by the program in two semesters (one-year) and earn the Master of Public Administration from Marywood University. 

    Fall Curriculum
    PADM 501: Principles of Public Administration
    PADM 502: Public Policy Analysis
    PADM 600: Learning, Experiencing, Applying, and Discussing (LEAD) Capstone Project

    Spring Curriculum
    PADM 503: Human Resource Management
    PADM 504: Research Methodology
    PADM 505: Public Budgeting and Finance

    Outcomes & Opportunities

    Get InvolvedCheck out Marywood's Graduate Student Council »

    Fulbright Scholars opportunities for students and research abroad »

    Top Online MPA ProgramEarned #30 on list of best online schools at master's level »

    *OnlineMastersDegrees.org (OMD)

     $98,890 median salary »

    *bls.gov

    Top Employers

    • Consulting Firms
    • Federal Government
    • Local Government
    • Hospitals

    Top Career Paths

    • Consultant
    • Foreign Service Officer
    • Civil Service Officer
    • Healthcare Service Manager
    I'm Ready To Apply!

    Dig Deeper Into the Program Details

    Applying to the MPA program at Marywood University is free and open online through the university's Office of Admissions.

    An undergraduate degree from an accredited institution of higher learning is required for admissions, in addition to the following:

    1. Online Application
    2. Official Undergraduate Degree Transcripts 
    3. Proof of English language proficiency (only for students for whom English is not their primary language and did not graduate from an English-taught university).
    4. Personal Statement: The personal statement should be no more than 500 words (or two double-spaced pages) answering the question, 'Why do you want an MPA'? You may describe your reasons for pursuing graduate studies in public administration, your career aspirations, your special interests within your field, and any features of your background that might be of an interest to the program. Commitment to public or nonprofit administration as well as ability to communicate in writing is strongly recommended.
    5. Resume or Curriculum Vitae
    6. Two Letters of Recommendation: The letters should be from individuals who know you in a professional capacity, such as professors, work supervisors, and professionals from organizations where you have served as a volunteer or in another capacity. We look for evidence of academic achievement, community involvement, and personal characteristics that suggests the capacity to foster an institutional culture that advances democratic administration and governance.    
    7. GRE scores are not required.

    Submit an admission essay (350-word minimum) addressing the four points outlined below:

    • Describe your professional work background.
    • What attracted you to pursuing an MPA program?
    • What do you expect to receive in management training?
    • How do you expect to use the management training and the MPA degree as a credential in pursuing your career objectives?

    Visit Graduate Admissions 

    Advanced Placement in the Ph.D. Program 

    Receiving an MPA degree from Marywood University is rewarding. Not only it will provide you with knowledge and skills for career development in the job market, but it will also provide you with an opportunity to continue with your higher education by applying to a Ph.D. program in Public Administration (or any related field). An ideal place for you to apply and continue your education is Marywood University's Ph.D. Program in Strategic Leadership and Administrative Studies (SLAS).

    Total credit hours required to complete the Ph.D. Program in SLAS is 60 credits (15 courses, 2 seminars and 9 dissertation credits). However, students with an MPA degree from Marywood University can apply to the Ph.D. Program in SLAS and upon acceptance apply 12 MPA credits (of a grade of B or better) toward the Ph.D. Program as an advanced placement. The following 4 MPA courses are eligible for advanced placement:

    The Core Course of PADM 501: Principles of Public Administration: This course can be applied toward the doctoral Foundation Course of SLAS 6001- Administrative and Leadership Theories.

    The Core Course of PADM 502: Public Policy Analysis: This course can be applied toward the doctoral Foundation Course of  SLAS 6003- Policy Analysis and Organizational Dynamics.

    The Core Course of PADM 504: Research Methodology: This course can be applied toward the doctoral Research Course of SLAS 6008- Qualitative Research Design.

    The Core Course of PADM 505: Public Budgeting and Finance eligible: This course can be applied toward the doctoral Foundation Course of SLAS 6005- Organizational Budget and Finance.

    In the McGowan Center for Professional Studies, you'll find specialized computerized programs, including CAI (computer-assisted instruction) and interactive video capability. General word processing and statistical software is available in the lab as well.

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    McGowan Center for Graduate and Professional Studies

    1201 University Avenue
    Map & Directions

    The McGowan Center for Graduate and Professional Studies, located on the corner of University and North Washington Avenues, contains classrooms and related clinical/professional space for Communication Sciences and Disorders, Psychology and Counseling, Education, and Business students. Market Marywood is also located here.

    Learn More  |  Take a Virtual Tour
    The McGowan computer lab with alternating black and green desks

    McGowan Center Computer Labs


    Map & Directions

    McGowan Center Computer Labs are located in Rooms 1052, 1056, and 1057. Color printers are available. You can also find Assistive Technology such as Inspiration, Kurzweil, and WriteOutLoud.

    Learn More

    Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship

    The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation's scholarship programs are designed to encourage and support outstanding students who work hard, demonstrate a strong will to succeed, and have financial need. Our scholarships provide financial assistance and academic support to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students.

    View Scholarships

    View Tuition Rates
    80+ opportunities for you to find the right fit with 50+ undergraduate degrees and 30+ graduate and certificate courses.

    MPA Internship 

    The MPA program does not require an internship, but encourages internships for pre-career and career-changing students. The program assists students in locating internship opportunities on local, state, regional, national, and international levels. The internship may begin as early as the second semester, but it is usually taken during the latter half of one's program. Your advisor will provide you with placement assistance, once you declare your interest and your registration for the Internship course (PADM 596) is approved. Approximately 400 hours of job experience is to be attained and evaluated (approximately 32 hours per week in a semester or 16 hours per week in two semesters).

    Each intern is responsible for negotiating a set of learning and performance objectives with the work supervisor and the program's advisor within the seven areas of POSDCoRB (Planning, Organizing, Staffing, Directing, Coordinating, Reporting, and Budgeting). The statement of objectives, once completed and signed by all parties becomes a contract that the employer agrees to help the intern achieve learning objectives, the intern promises to attain the performance objectives of the agency, and the MPA program agrees that completion of the objectives requires 3 credits for the work portion of the internship. When possible the advisor visits or communicates with the supervisor to coordinate the internship. At the end of the internship, the intern is evaluated by both the supervisor and by his/ her advisor.   

    1. Federal Government Internships

    Pathways Program

    The Pathways Program includes a federal government-wide internship program for students from high school to PhD. Positions are located across the country, either part-time or full-time.

    Feds Hire Vets

    Veterans interested in continuing their public service can look into the many opportunities provided by this program.

    U.S. State Department

    The State Department manages several internship programs that enable students to get experience in a foreign affairs environment.

    U.S. Department of Transportation

    The U.S. DOT offers internship in several areas, including planning, economics, public administration and criminal justice. 

    2. Nonprofit Internship

    Idealist

    Search by name, location, or mission for volunteer and internship opportunities at nonprofit worldwide.

    3. NASPAA

    Internship Program

    The Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA) has internship opportunities for students of public administration.

    PublicServiceCareers.org

    Good source for finding jobs or internships. 

    Peer-Reviewed Journal

    Journal of Applied Professional Studies

    Resources

    Marywood Institutional Review Board (IRB)

    Marywood Exempt Review Committee (ERC)

    Request Information

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    Fully Accredited

    Marywood University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSHE). / ADDRESS / 3624 Market Street, 2nd Floor West, Philadelphia, PA 19104. | Phone: (267) 284-5000

    The Master of Public Administration (MPA) follows the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA)'s accreditation guidelines.