Public Administration, M.P.A.

MPA Program

The MPA degree prepares students for public-service careers with local, state, and federal government agencies and non-profit organizations. Students may earn their MPA by taking courses on campus or online.

Students applying for the MPA program should have a 2.75 GPA with relevant coursework or professional experience. Applicants who do not meet minimum requirements will be required to take the GRE or GMAT and report the score to the Department. Applications require a resume.

Applicants entering the MPA program without professional experience are required to complete 36 credit hours. Each student’s program includes six core courses, four elective courses, and a 6 credit-hour internship. Applicants may request an internship waiver based upon professional experience when applying to the MPA program. Students obtaining an internship waiver must take additional elective credits for a total of 33 credit hours.

Professional Organizations

Shippensburg University’s MPA program is a member of the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA). High-achieving MPA students are eligible for membership in the Shippensburg University Chapter of Pi Alpha Alpha, the global honor society for public affairs and administration.

Master of Public Administration and Master of Social Work Dual Degree Agreement

Students wishing to pursue this option must follow the Dual Graduate Degrees policy.

The MPA program will count the following MSW courses:

• SOWK 615 - Advanced Social Welfare Policy   for POLI 603 - Public Policy Analysis and Program Evaluation   
• SOWK 625 - Advanced Research Methods   for POLI 601 - Research Methods    
• SOWK 630 - Advanced Field Practicum I   /SOWK 631 - Advanced Field Practicum II    for POLI elective