波尔州立大学

If you already have a bachelor’s degree and want to prepare for a career in public management at a government agency or nonprofit organization, then a master of public administration (MPA) is the right choice for you. Our program blends the study of politics and administration with the techniques of modern management.

Three interdisciplinary options allow you to design a course of study targeted to your career goals:

• criminal justice concentration
• information and communication technology concentration
• customized course of study

What You Will Learn

Learning outcomes include:

• a theoretical understanding and practical awareness of public policy
• a grasp of the principles of management and administration in the public sector
• an understanding of the techniques of modern management
• an understanding of how public service values such as integrity and accountability should guide decision making
• an ability to gather data, correctly analyze it, and apply the analysis to produce policy and program recommendations
• writing, speaking, and listening skills appropriate for intra-organizational and inter-organizational communication

Program Benefits

• Flexible Curriculum
• Practical Experience
• Outstanding Faculty
• The Bowen Center for Public Affairs

Program Requirements

Our three options, offered in collaboration with other departments on campus, allow you to gain substantive training in a specific policy area to complement your learning about public and nonprofit administration and policy.

Other coursework depends on which interdisciplinary option you choose.

Criminal Justice Concentration

The Criminal Justice concentration will prepare you for a leadership role in criminal justice or law enforcement.

If you currently work in a criminal justice profession and would like to further develop your skills and knowledge to advance in your field or if you are currently an undergraduate wishing to pursue graduate study in criminal justice and public administration this program is a perfect fit for you.

Information Technology and Communication Concentration

The Information Technology and Communication concentration prepares students for IT careers in the public sector or with organizations concerned with technology policy. By blending a strong understanding of technology with practical management and problem-solving skills, this track will empower students to master challenges in information networking, wireless communication, and other advanced technologies.

Customized Course of Study

This option lets students design a custom course of study by earning a graduate certificate that complements the MPA required courses or by selecting elective courses in political science or other fields. This option is ideal for students whose needs are not met by the other concentrations, as well as those who are still in the process of figuring out what career path they would like to pursue.

Social Issues and Policy Concentration

The Social Issues and Policy concentration will prepare you for a leadership role in public or nonprofit agencies that address social problems such as opioid abuse, aging, and poverty.