Master of Public Administration

Program Snapshot
Salary and Careers
Program Benefits

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) at KSU in Georgia is a professional degree that prepares you for leadership and administrative positions in governmental agencies and nonprofit organizations. Our student-oriented faculty combine solid academic learning, human-capital leadership training, and concrete, practical experiences.

The MPA degree is offered by the School of Government and International Affairs within the Radow College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Kennesaw State. The program works in cooperation with the A. L. Burruss Institute of Public Service that provides community services and technical assistance to nonprofit and public organizations across Georgia.

You may choose one of the following concentrations or a combination of courses to total 12 credit hours. The concentration courses will enable you to prepare for a professional career in the public, and nonprofit sectors.

State, Local, and Regional Administration
Information Systems Administration
Nonprofit Administration

Why choose a Master of Public Administration degree?

The MPA program is an ideal option for students who aspire to hold leadership roles in public governance at the local, regional, or national levels. Its primary objectives include cultivating critical and creative thinking in graduates towards public issues, imparting administrative and leadership skills necessary for public sector positions, and providing a rigorous core curriculum that explores the theoretical foundations of public service. In addition, the program fosters a commitment to public service values and ethical behavior, while promoting a diverse and inclusive learning environment. Ultimately, an MPA degree can equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values required to create a positive impact in the public sector.

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Join us for a Virtual Information Session and discover the benefits of the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at Kennesaw State University:

Gain valuable insights: Learn about the admissions requirements, class offerings, and financial aid options available in the MPA program.
Discover unique opportunities: Understand the benefits that set our MPA program apart from others, and how it can enhance your career.
Get personalized guidance: Interact with professors and advisors who will provide expert advice tailored to your goals and aspirations.
Prepare for a successful future: Acquire the knowledge, skills, and resources to excel in public sector careers and make a positive impact in your community.

Don't miss out on this chance to explore the MPA program at KSU. Register now for our upcoming Virtual Information Sessions.

KSU public administration student in the classroom

Program Snapshot

Format: Face-to-Face, Partially Online or Hybrid

Number of Credits: 36 Total Hours

Entry Terms: Fall, Spring

Time to Complete: Two-year Program

Application Deadlines:

Fall, July 1^st
Spring, November 1^st

Curriculum Apply Now

Admissions Requirements

The following are requirements beyond the general Graduate Admissions requirements.

A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with at least 2.75 grade point average.
Submission of an application to the Office of Graduate Admissions and a non-refundable application fee; International students must also provide satisfactory TOEFL or IETLS scores.
Submit a statement of purpose essay of approximately 1,000 words addressing the following questions: “In what way do you expect the Master of Public Administration degree to affect or enhance your career goals and aspirations?

A current resume
Two letters of recommendation from faculty or work supervisors with direct knowledge of the applicant that address the applicant’s potential for graduate study and use of an MPA degree.

Students are admitted to the program based upon an overall review of all credentials including any work and community service experience that indicates potential success in graduate work and in professional public service.

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Public Administration Degree Offers Valuable Opportunities

Top 20

Schools in the U.S. that students want to attend reported by U.S. News and World Report
7,100+

Companies recruited students and alumni from KSU in 2020

Three Concentration Options: Take control of your career path by choosing from three degree concentration options that support your goals.
Public Service/Non-Profits Internships Available: Take advantage of internships that open networking opportunities, get you closer to job openings, and form the building blocks for a new career or new professional direction.
Evening Classes for Convenient for Working Adults: As a busy professional, this program works for you. This program offers online classes to best fit your needs.
NASPAA Accredited: This program meets the highest standards in public affairs education. Rest assured our rigorous curriculum and highly qualified faculty prepare you for public service success.
Complete Degree at a Pace That Suits Your Lifestyle: Your time is valuable. A short-term investment in your future pays long-term dividends for your career. Learn more.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Broaden your world view while working toward your MPA degree and experience this life-changing educational experience.

What can you do with a Public Administration degree?

'Typical MPA Occupations

Urban Planner
Human Resources Management
Federal Compliance Officer (OES)
Insurance Benefits Compliance
Administrative Services Manager

Atypical MPA Occupations

Administrators for a Medical or Dental Practice
Law Practice Managers
Securities and Investments Compliance
Territory, National, and Global Sales Managers
Architectural & Engineering Department Management

In many cases, earning a MPA brings a $20,000 wage premium vs. those who do not have an advanced degree.

Public Administration Salary and Career Information

A career in public administration offers many paths that can easily align with your current and future goals. Below are just a few jobs achievable with a master’s degree in public administration from KSU.

Consider the MPA/MSCJ Dual Degree

The Master of Public Administration/Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MPA/MSCJ) Program is a dual degree offered by the Norman J. Radow College of Humanities and Social Sciences. The objective of this program is to allow students who are interested in serving in the public administration, non-profit, and criminal justice sectors to register concurrently in both the MPA and MSCJ programs.

The demand for leaders in these career areas requires professionals well versed in how the public and non-profit sectors operate and how to administer effectively criminal justice programs. This dual degree program combines preparation in public management and criminal justice theory and practice to make graduates competitive in these growing fields.

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