Kaplan University offers the Master of Public Administration Program to individuals who seek leadership positions in the public sector. Students can choose to pursue a General Master of Public Administration (MPA) or have a specific intensive study area either in healthcare management, criminal justice, or governmental management. The program’s Core Curriculum places emphasis on the development of public value, ethical decision-making, innovation, knowledge base, financial knowledge, diversity, and leadership. Accreditation is provided by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Students will have the opportunity to explore the fundamental concepts and practices of budgeting and financial management, interaction of political and economic forces, public policy analysis, and administrative law. Core Courses include Applied Research in Legal Studies, Public Administration and Management, Leadership in the Public Sector, Finance and the Administration of Public Funds, Human Resource Management in the Public Sector, and the Comprehensive Exam Capstone. General MPA Required Courses consist of Administrative Law, Balancing the Budget-Budgetary Process, Political and Economic Forces, Public Policy Analysis, and 500/600-Level Legal Studies Elective. Total program length is fifty-five (55) credits.

The program’s Core Curriculum trains students in evaluating, implementing, and managing policy. It includes diverse topics such as ethics and leadership, strategic planning, applied research, as well as budgeting and administration of public funds. Graduates are expected to be strong and educated leaders who are able to make decisions that can make a strong difference in the public sector.

Students can apply for approval of transfer credits to expedite completion of the program. Coursework completed more than five (5) years prior to admission is subject to evaluation on a case-to-case basis. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.

[Request information about this degree from Kaplan University]