Master of Public Administration (MPA)

Credits 30
Format Online

Effective leadership for the public sector.

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) has been designed for those seeking to effectively lead within the public and nonprofit sectors. The program equips learners with the knowledge, skills and abilities to lead a diverse range of operations and services in the increasing complexity world of public and nonprofit service leadership.

Students will gain a deep understanding of:

  • Public administration history
  • Policy analysis
  • Administrative law and ethics
  • Public budgeting and finance
  • Human resource management
  • Program evaluation

Who is the MPA for?


The MPA is the executive leadership degree for professionals within the public and nonprofit sectors. This degree is designed for those currently serving public and nonprofit agencies who seek roles in senior leadership, or for those transitioning from other fields, and seek to align career with the greater good. Completion of this MPA degree program will increase your leadership in the effective delivery of public and nonprofit services while you stand at the forefront of many of the most pressing issues impacting our society today.

Why TESU?


Thomas Edison State University (TESU) was designed to serve the adult learner. We know the challenges inherent in balancing career and family while continuing your education. That’s why we’ve designed a learning experience that is based upon andragogy (i.e., adult learning theory), which is 100% online, asynchronous and meets the highest academic standards. The courses are facilitated by experts from the public and nonprofit fields who’ve also obtained the highest of academic qualifications, so that learning moves beyond theory and becomes immediately applicable to your current professional environment. TESU is also a state university that places the support of our public and nonprofit professionals at the forefront of our mission.

Curriculum


The MPA curriculum was designed to meet two key objectives. First, the program provides an essential set of core skills needed for effective leadership within the public and nonprofit sectors. These skills are provided through completion of the required core courses. Learners will then formally demonstrate an acquisition of each of the defined program learning outcomes by completing the capstone course. Second, there are nine (9) credits of specialization or elective courses, so that each student can align their academic experience with their professional goals and aspirations. The MPA degree requires a minimum of 30 credits for completion.
  • General Studies

    The General Studies area of study offers students the flexibility to tailor their MPA experience to their unique professional interests and career goals. This option is ideal for learners seeking a broad-based education in public administration without a specific sector focus. Students can select from a range of electives that deepen their understanding of leadership, policy, finance, and organizational management across diverse public service contexts.

    See Curriculum & Learning Outcomes
  • Nonprofit Management

    Nonprofit Management is designed to support both current and emerging leadership, ultimately leading to an increase in capacity, for those interested in working for organizations that provide a vital link in addressing the economic and social gaps in society that are not effectively addressed by either government or private industry.

    See Curriculum & Learning Outcomes

Tuition & Financial Aid


At TESU, we’ve been empowering adults toward brighter futures for more than 50 years. Learning the total cost of attending TESU is an important step in your college search. See our tuition rates and explore financial aid options to plan your future.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Admission Requirements


You must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. For most graduate programs at TESU, students with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 will be admitted without further requirements. Visit Graduate Admissions to learn more and begin your application.

Graduate Admission Requirements

Take the Next Steps


Interested in the Master of Public Administration program?

Start your application today, learn more about us or contact us for more information and we'll be in touch!

Related Programs

Master's Degrees

Master of Science (M.S.) in Management - Public Service

Advance your career in public service with TESU's MS in Management. Specialize in areas like community development, homeland security, and nonprofit management. Apply today!

Doctoral Degrees

Doctor of Business Administration

Gain business expertise with a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) at TESU. Become an executive leader, educator or consultant with our 100% online DBA.

Doctoral Degrees

Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership, Culture and Change

Advance your expertise in educational leadership with our flexible, online Doctor of Education program. Start your journey to a doctorate and make an impact in education. Enroll now!