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FAQ: Online Master of Public Administration Degree
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree is designed for both seasoned professionals and new bachelor's graduates who are interested in serving their community. MPA students learn business skills in financial management, human resources, communication and marketing that are required to oversee the day-to-day operations of government agencies or non-profit organizations. They also gain key experience in policy research, critical analysis and grant writing that employers value.
Current public servants seeking career advancement may benefit from an MPA as well. Whether your goal is to earn a higher salary or a management role, the degree can prepare you to seize new opportunities and move up faster. Some graduates also go into government consulting or follow their passion and start a non-profit organization.
Accelerated online MPA programs offer the same high-quality education available on campus, but with greater flexibility and often at a lower cost. They are also designed to help students earn a master's degree while working full time. Follow the links below to learn more about online MPA programs.
What Is a Master of Public Administration Degree?
A master's in public administration is a professional degree that focuses on government or non-profit management, as well as policy development and strategic planning. MPA programs provide students with advanced skills for a wide range of jobs in public administration and community nonprofit services.
Coursework and projects focus on leadership, research, personnel and program management, grant writing and fundraising, professional ethics and more. Some students also complete internships to build experience and contacts.
Arkansas State University offers two affordable MPA options. The Master of Public Administration Public Management track prepares graduates for manager, director and executive positions in government service. Individuals interested in working in non-profit leadership can choose the Master of Public Administration Non-Profit Management track . Each program offers accelerated courses delivered 100% online.
A-State consistently earns high state and national rankings for the quality and cost of its online programs. Recent accolades include:
- #1 Top Online College in Arkansas and #2 Top Online School for Public Administration (College Affordability Guide, 2021)
- #2 in the Top 50 Affordable Accelerated Online MPA Programs (Best Colleges, 2021)
- #2 in the Top 50 Great Value Public Administration Master's Online (Great Value Colleges, 2021)
- Top 10 in Best Online MPA Programs (Student Education & Training in Public Service, 2021)
What Will I Learn in an MPA Program?
You will learn how government agencies and non-profit organizations operate, and why highly qualified leaders are important to their success. In addition to administrative methods and best practices, you will study the strategy, planning and funding that underpins all aspects of the work these entities do. MPA students also learn how to think critically and act purposefully, fulfilling the mission of the agency or organization they serve while meeting goals and addressing challenges.
Can an MPA Help Me Learn How to Start a Non-Profit?
Yes. The management, financial and leadership skills you learn in an MPA program are the same ones that can help you build a non-profit organization from the ground up. Coursework covers the legal process involved in gaining tax-exempt status, as well as the state and federal standards that govern non-profit operations. Projects and assignments also offer the opportunity to research your ideas, define your mission and develop an action plan to turn your passion into a public service.
As an online MPA student, you can arrange an internship with a non-profit organization in your area of interest as well, or network with other NPO founders and learn from their experience.
What Courses Will I Take for an Online MPA?
Classes normally focus on administrative research, theory and practice as well as the financial and managerial aspects of public service. Policy development and analysis is also an emphasis. Some prerequisites may be required as well, depending on your previous courses.
Students in the online Master of Public Administration program at A-State complete 36 hours of coursework to earn the degree. Seven core classes address diverse aspects of public administration, from leadership, research techniques, budgeting and finance to grant writing, human resources and ethics. Students also take five courses in the Public Management track or Non-Profit Management track, including the final MPA capstone.
Students in both concentrations also have the option of taking POSC 660V: Internship in Public Administration to gain direct experience in the field. Mid-career professionals and others who don't feel they could benefit from an internship may take POSC 6473: Strategic Planning, Policy and Management instead.
What Is an MPA Capstone?
The MPA capstone is a culminating course with requirements that are usually unique to each program. They may include building a portfolio, completing projects or taking a comprehensive exam.
What all capstone courses have in common is their purpose. They allow students to demonstrate their mastery of program content and preparation for the professional field they will enter upon graduation. Capstones also allow students to work closely with professors as they prepare for life beyond their MPA studies.
The final course in the online MPA program at A-State is POSC 6653: MPA Capstone Experience. Students complete case studies, reflection papers, projects and other analytical exercises to demonstrate five core competencies:
- Leadership skills
- Ethical values
- Analytical skills
- Financial management skills
- Experiential learning
How Do Internships Benefit Online MPA Students?
Regardless of your experience, an internship can help prepare you for future leadership positions, even if you're already a manager. Spending time with a mentor in public or non-profit administration can give you a new perspective on employment options and benefit you at any stage of your career.
For students with little or no experience in public administration, an MPA internship is a must. This opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge you've learned can open doors to future jobs and help you make valuable contacts in your new career field.
Online MPA students at A-State have the option to do an internship after they have completed 18 credit hours. One is not required, however.
Where Can Online MPA Students Intern?
Online MPA students can pursue internships in any area of government or non-profit service. Your options are only limited by your interest. You might choose a municipal arts or housing program in your town, work with the development director for a national non-profit, learn about county law enforcement or criminal justice management, or even join a state legislator's office.
Pick a site and mentor based on your current career path or use the experience to explore new areas of public service. Whether your ambition is to manage programs, work in direct services, become an advocate, write grants, make policy or just balance the city budget, an MPA internship will help you clarify your goals.
What Are the Admission Requirements for Online MPA Programs?
Admission requirements can vary, but most online MPA programs require an undergraduate degree from an accredited school or program. Some prefer applicants with a bachelor's in government or business. Your GPA should also meet the program's minimum standard and you'll need to submit official transcripts from each college or university you've attended. Programs often request additional documents as well, such as an essay or statement of purpose, reference letters or a professional resume.
Basic requirements for the online Master of Public Administration program at A-State include:
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, with a 3.2 cumulative GPA
- Three letters of recommendation
- A two- to three-page statement of purpose
- Official transcripts
- Completed and signed MPA Code of Conduct and Civility (upon acceptance)
Undergraduate coursework in American national government, principles of economics and research methods — with a grade of "C" or higher — is also required. Students without courses that meet the requirement can take those prerequisites while studying online at A-State.
Applicants seeking conditional admission or those who last attended another graduate school should also review additional information available at the program pages for the MPA Public Management track and the MPA Non-Profit Management track.
Will I Have to Take the GRE for Admission to an MPA Program?
Graduate school entrance exam requirements vary by institution and sometimes by your field of study. Some MPA programs ask for GRE scores as part of the admission process, but not all. Check with the programs you're interested in to find out for sure.
A-State's online MPA program does not require GRE scores for admission.
Does It Matter if My Online MPA Program Is Accredited?
Yes, accreditation counts for a lot. MPA programs that are regularly evaluated by an independent accreditor can provide the best professional preparation for government and non-profit careers. During the rigorous accreditation process reviewers examine a range of areas, including courses and curriculum, faculty qualifications, teaching methods and graduation rates. Accreditation by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) is a sign that your MPA program meets the highest standards.
Institutional accreditation is important as well. In addition to looking at the degree programs offered across a given college or university, regional accreditors focus on a school's financial practices, student aid policies, campus resources, ADA compliance and much more.
A-State's Master of Public Administration program is NASPAA-accredited. The university is also regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
How Does Accreditation Benefit MPA Students?
Choosing an accredited MPA program ensures that you have access to the best funding while you study and the right career opportunities after graduation.
Students in unaccredited MPA programs can't receive state or federal financial aid or use their military education benefits to pay for school. Most employer-based tuition assistance or reimbursement programs also require proof of accreditation before they will pay for classes.
If you're hoping for a career in government or the chance to move up in the agency where you already serve, accreditation is a must. Most federal, state, county and local public service jobs now require an accredited degree. Non-profit leadership and management positions often do as well, and all types of employers routinely check to confirm this aspect of your application.
The bottom line is that accredited MPA programs offer students many basic advantages that unaccredited programs cannot.
What Is the Career Outlook for MPA Graduates?
Master of Public Administration graduates continue to have a broad choice of opportunities in government and non-profit service due to their diverse skill set. According to March 2021 job market analysis by Burning Glass Technologies (BGT), demand is on the rise for MPA graduates with expertise in talent acquisition, behavior analysis, crisis management, budget forecasting, digital marketing and communication. The analysis also notes that project management, strategic planning and performance appraisal skills can help you earn a top salary.
In addition, BGT predicts faster-than-average growth in the following MPA occupations through 2028. The states below are expected to see robust job gains, by the percentages indicated.
- Social science research – Tennessee (47%), California (32%)
- Human services management –Tennessee (35%), Arkansas (20%), Oklahoma (20%)
- Emergency management – Missouri (23%), Oklahoma (20%), New York (19%), Arkansas (14%)
- Regulatory affairs – Missouri (21%), Arkansas (14%), Texas (12%)
- Public administration – New York (14%), Oklahoma (13%)
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also projects that management jobs in social and community services will grow 17% nationally through 2029, much faster than the total labor market. BLS predicts especially high leadership demand in support programs for older adults and treatment programs for addiction or substance abuse.
Which Government Jobs for MPA Graduates Pay the Most?
This employment sector offers many different career paths and salaries, depending on the level of government where you are interested in serving. Keep in mind that compensation rates are often set by the municipal council or legislative bureau overseeing the agency where you work, so salaries can vary. For instance, local and state agencies may have a different pay grade for the same job title.
Location also plays a role. According to ZipRecruiter (March 2021), while county administrators take home an average yearly salary of $86,142 nationally, they can make $94,309 in Santa Monica, California and $100,538 in New York City.
Here are some other government jobs for MPA graduates that pay well, with sample salaries by locale.
| Position | Average Annual Salary | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Director of Parks and Recreation | National $116,095 | Memphis, TN $117,437 | Houston, TX $122,394 |
| Government Affairs Director | National $105,718 | Miami Beach, FL $107,661 | Los Angeles, CA $120,036 |
| Senior Regulatory Affairs Specialist | National $100,668 | Dallas, TX $102,722 | Arlington, VA $116,279 |
| City Manager | National $93,373 | Fayetteville, AR $94,732 | Jackson, MS $98,615 |
| Senior Policy Analyst | National $84,983 | Camden, NJ $88,023 | Berkeley, CA $94,065 |
| Emergency Management Director | National $80,772 | St. Louis, MO $83,471 | Brooklyn, NY $90,759 |
Source: ZipRecruiter, March 2021
Spotlight: Non-Profit Salaries for MPA Graduates
It may not surprise you to learn that leaders of national or statewide non-profits with a large staff and scope generally earn more than those running small charities providing assistance on a shoestring budget. However, the range of NPO salaries is just as diverse as the number of careers you can choose in public service, whether you want to be the face of your organization or work behind the scenes.
City and county level non-profits with robust community support are often attractive to MPA graduates who want to earn a good living while making a difference in the lives of local citizens. Some experienced non-profit administrators also find that a move into consulting allows them to earn more while helping a variety of organizations fulfill their mission.
Here are some key leadership, management and development roles for MPA graduates, with typical salaries.
| Position | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Chief Executive Officer | $100,826 – $120,805 |
| Senior Major Gifts Officer | $99,023 – $123,531 |
| Finance Director | $83,323 – $98,944 |
| Development Manager | $79,890 – $100,089 |
| Mental Health Program Manager | $74,476 – $90,243 |
| Proposal Consultant* | $68,719 – $84,359 |
| Communications Director | $67,369 – $82,957 |
| Grant Administrator | $66,611 – $81,771 |
| Director of Volunteer Services | $65,984 – $82,668 |
| Senior Grant Writer | $61,200 – $74,338 |
Source: ZipRecruiter, March 2021 *Consultant earnings can be higher depending on your experience and the pay rate you negotiate.
If you are new to public service, working for a small organization where you can gain direct hands-on experience in program management, community outreach and grant writing can help you move up faster and earn more. Growing this fundamental skill set will also benefit your career long term.
Where Are Master of Public Administration Graduates in Demand?
According to labor market analysis from Burning Glass Technologies (March 2021), California, New York and Texas lead the country in jobs for MPA graduates. Virginia, Florida and Illinois are also among the top 10 states for MPA employment.
BGT analysis reveals that the following metro areas are experiencing high demand for MPAs as well, as employers complete for qualified candidates.
- California – Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose and Sacramento
- Florida – Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Tampa
- Illinois – Chicago
- Missouri – St. Louis
- New York – New York City
- New Jersey – Newark and Jersey City
- Texas – Dallas, Fort Worth and Houston
- Virginia – Arlington and Alexandria
Are There Professional Organizations for MPA Graduates? Can They Help Me Find a Job?
Yes and yes. Joining a professional organization in your career field is a great move for MPA graduates. Most offer networking opportunities for their members and many also have a job board. Here are just a few groups that provide access to public service job listings online.
- American Correctional Association
- International Association of Women in the Fire and Emergency Services
- American Public Works Association
- International City/County Management Association
- American Society for Public Administration
- National Association of Nonprofit Professionals
- Association of Fundraising Professionals
- National Association of State Facilities Administrators
- Center for Nonprofit Advancement
- Society for Nonprofits
- Engaging Local Government Leaders
- Government Finance Officers Association
MPA graduates who join a professional organization can also take advantage of training opportunities and attend conferences where they can share ideas with peers in public service across the nation or the globe.
How Much Does an Online Master of Public Administration Degree Cost?
Costs vary by MPA program, depending on tuition rates, credit-hour requirements and whether you qualify as an in-state or out-of-state student. Fees can also add to your final bill, so make sure you understand all charges before enrolling. And if you only plan to take one or two classes per term, note that some schools charge part-time students more.
For example, one prominent online MPA program in Texas charges in-state students taking a single three-hour course $1,529.30 per credit. Students taking three courses (nine hours) pay less, at $1,105.30 per credit. If both of those rates sound high, one reason may be that all online MPA students at the school are assessed a graduate program fee of $1,588 per semester on top of tuition. Details such as this are important to research, especially if you're on a budget.
Most online MPA programs are considerably more affordable and in some of them, all students pay the same rate regardless of their location or enrollment status. The table below demonstrates how costs can differ by university, featuring programs in Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas.
| Institution | Credit Hours Required | Tuition & Fees Per Credit Hour | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stephen F. Austin State University* | 36 | In-State $497 Out-of-State $906 | In State $17,892 Out-of-State $32,616 |
| University of Central Oklahoma | 36 | In-State $449.35 Out-of-State $866.35 | In-State $16,176.60 Out-of-State $31,188.60 |
| University of Texas Rio Grande Valley | 36 | $444.44 | $16,000 |
| Southern Arkansas University | 36 | In-State $371.66 Out-of-State $533.33 | In-State $13,379.76 Out-of-State $19,199.88 |
| Arkansas State University | 36 | $331 | $11,916 |
Source: University websites, published tuition rates for 2020-2021 *Based on typical part-time enrollment of six hours.
Is Financial Aid Available to Online Graduate Students?
The U.S. Department of Education offers loans, grants and other support to qualified master's students who are studying online. Financial aid eligibility is primarily based on income and the cost of your degree. It is limited to students attending an accredited school or program. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online to find out how much financial aid is available to you.
Location also plays a role. According to ZipRecruiter (March 2021), while county administrators take home an average yearly salary of $86,142 nationally, they can make $94,309 in Santa Monica, California and $100,538 in New York City.
Here are some other government jobs for MPA graduates that pay well, with sample salaries by locale.
Can I Use My Military Education Benefits for an Online MPA Program?
Yes, as long as the college or university you attend is accredited. Visit the U.S Department of Veterans Affairs website to learn more about available funding programs and application processes. You can also find out how to transfer education benefits to your spouse or children.
VIQTORY media has consistently recognized Arkansas State University as a Military Friendly School for its commitment to supporting service members and their families. A-State earned this honor once again for 2021-2022. The Veterans Affairs Representative in the registrar's office provides assistance with certifying Post-9/11 G.I. Bill and Montgomery G.I. Bill benefits, and processing funding requests for those programs.
The A-State Military Scholarship also provides supplemental tuition assistance for active-duty personnel as well as reservists receiving VA 1606/1607 benefits. Spouses qualify as well. Tuition for scholarship recipients is capped at $250 per credit hour.
Can MPA Graduates Qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness?
The Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program is for college graduates working full time for a qualifying government agency or non-profit organization. Only federal direct loans and consolidation loans are eligible for forgiveness, and they must be current – you can't apply while in default.
Eligibility is also based on your employer, rather than the job title you have. Working for a city, county, state, federal, tribal or non-profit entity could qualify you for PSLF. Here are a few examples:
- Government agencies, offices and programs
- City or county fire departments, police departments, jails, court systems and hospitals
- Charitable or service organizations that hold IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status
- Federal service programs such as AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps
There are some notable exceptions. You can't qualify for PSLF by working as a contractor for a government agency or by working at a for-profit business that's a government contractor. Any organization affiliated with a political party is also excluded from the program.
How Fast Can I Complete a Master of Public Administration Degree Online?
Online master's courses are often accelerated, lasting eight weeks or less. If your MPA program is 100% online, classes can usually be completed in half the time you would spend in a traditional 16-week course on campus. Online MPA programs also offer more start dates each year, so you can begin working toward your degree sooner and graduate faster.
The online MPA program at A-State has six start dates per year. Courses are seven weeks in length, with weekly modules that can help you master content quickly. Motivated students can graduate in as few as 18 months by taking two classes each term. If you prefer a slower pace or need to pause your MPA studies, it's easy to pick up where you left off and finish your degree when the time is right.
Can I Earn My MPA While Working Full Time?
Yes. In fact, many students already employed in the government or non-profit sector find the flexibility of online learning makes it possible to earn an MPA. You don't need to sacrifice a steady paycheck and benefits to advance your career with an online master's degree, because you have the freedom to schedule classes and study when it is most convenient.
If you are new to public service and want to complete an MPA internship as part of your degree, that can also be arranged around your life and current job. You can achieve your goals secure in the knowledge that you won't have to spend time commuting to campus or sitting in a classroom to get a great education..
How Many Hours Will I Need to Study Each Week?
Online courses and on-campus courses usually offer the same basic assignments and content, so the workload will be comparable. Time management is important, however, since some classes require more work and effort than others.
There's a simple formula you can use as you begin learning online that will help you budget your time: multiply the number of credit hours you're taking by three. If you're enrolled in one three-credit class, set aside nine study hours per week. If you have big projects, papers or exams coming up, add an hour here and there as needed.
While 10-12 hours per week is average for part-time enrollment, consider your learning habits and preferences too. Keep tabs on your coursework and deadlines just as you do work and personal commitments to help ensure that study time becomes a part of your regular routine.
How Do Online Courses Work?
Just like courses on campus, for the most part. Professors will provide you with a syllabus for each class that outlines all assignments, discussions, exams and deadlines. The most obvious difference is that you'll meet with classmates and professors online, watch lectures on video and upload your work when you turn it in. Group discussions and collaborations also take place in virtual forums instead of in a physical classroom.
The best part is that you'll have access to your course and all of your learning materials any time you're ready to study.
Will I Have the Same Professors Online as On Campus?
It depends on the program you choose. At some universities, MPA professors teach either face-to-face or online courses exclusively. At others, faculty members teach both types of classes. What matters most is that you learn from online faculty with the right qualifications and experience to help you achieve your goals, both as a student and after you graduate.
A-State MPA professors teach both online and on campus. Faculty members hold a master's or doctoral degree and have direct experience in government or non-profit management. Students can receive a rigorous, high-quality MPA education as they enjoy the flexibility that online learning offers.
Will I Be Able to Study or Network With Classmates Online?
Yes. You will be able to interact with your classmates through message boards, research projects, video chats and other activities. Many online MPA students develop friendships and form networks with their academic colleagues, even when they live in different states.
Whether you are a current civic leader or just entering public service, your MPA cohort can be a valuable resource. You'll learn with students from a variety of professional fields and backgrounds including many who bring considerable experience in public or non-profit management to class discussions.
What Technology Will I Need for Online MPA Courses?
The technology you'll need for online courses may differ depending on the learning management system your university uses, but there are a few standard requirements. Make sure your computer has reliable, high-speed internet connectivity and software you can use for word processing, spreadsheets and presentations. You should also be able to upload and download files and stream online videos, and have enough memory to store larger files. If your computer is older, a system or software upgrade can help and cloud storage is also an option.
You will also need a webcam and microphone to participate in live discussions or video chat sessions. If your computer doesn't have these features, you can add an external camera and microphone or use a tablet for that purpose.
The learning management systems that most universities use are mobile-friendly too. You may be able to post to discussion boards on your smartphone, check grades or chat with classmates and professors. This ability to study on the go is a great perk for master's students, since you can get assignments done wherever and whenever it's most convenient.
Is Tech Support Available to Online Students?
Yes, most colleges and universities provide tech support for students who are learning online. When choosing your MPA program, however, make sure you understand how and when you can access this service, since some schools only offer support on a limited schedule. If you're a working professional who needs to study at night or on the weekends, look for a program that offers tech support after business hours, or at any time you may be online.
A-State provides tech support to all students 24 hours a day, seven days per week. The IT Help Desk offers general technology assistance and troubleshooting, as well as self-help tools that address a variety of common issues. For help with online courses, contact [email protected].
Are Other Student Services Available Online?
Online students often have access to the same support services that are available to students on campus. Many schools offer remote library access and even career services online.
At Arkansas State University's Dean B. Ellis Library, online students can access academic journals and databases, view video tutorials and get 24/7 research assistance via live chat. MPA students may find the library's online tutorial for finding state and federal documents helpful as well. You can even use the interlibrary loan service to check out books and materials housed at other universities.
A-State's Online Writing Center offers consultations via email or a live meeting with a tutor. Master's students can get help at all stages of the writing process, from planning a project to checking grammar and citations or reviewing a completed paper.
Career Services at A-State are tailored to the needs of online students and alumni. MPA students can get assistance with a resume, practice interview skills, attend virtual job fairs and more. The university's Handshake portal also connects online students directly with employers and job opportunities across the country.
Sources
American Correctional AssociationAmerican Public Works Association
American Society for Public Administration
Association of Fundraising Professionals
Burning Glass Technologies
Center for Nonprofit Advancement
Engaging Local Government Leaders
Government Finance Officers Association
International Association of Women in the Fire and Emergency Services
International City/County Management Association
National Association of Nonprofit Professionals
National Association of State Facilities Administrators
Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA)
Society for Nonprofits
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook – Social and Community Service Managers
U.S. Department of Education:
HomeFederal Student Aid: Complete the FAFSA Form
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Education and Training Benefits
VIQTORY: Arkansas State University
ZipRecruiter:
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