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Master of Public Administration (MPA)

Master of Public Administration

Succeed in your career while making a difference in the world with a Master of Public Administration from Kutztown University.

An MPA degree from KU prepares you to be an in-demand leader in a range of roles and sectors. You will learn the goals, challenges, and processes of administering public services, with a special emphasis on the politics of public sector management. Students graduate with this specialized knowledge as well as technical skills in budgeting, planning, human resources, administration, research, and other essential management techniques.

Degree at a glance:

  • 36 credits with optional thesis
  • Hybrid coursework: a 50/50 mix of in-person and online learning
  • Flexibility for working adults: Most courses are evening classes
  • Students in the Professional Seminar get hands-on experience producing a final project for a state agency
  • Can be completed in as little as two years

What can you do with an MPA degree?

An MPA degree prepares you to manage and lead across multiple industries, including government, nonprofit, human services, education, the private sector and more.

Our alumni work at all levels of local, state, and federal government, as well as in higher education and the nonprofit sector. Just a few examples are:

  • Social Security Administration
  • City of Allentown
  • Berks and Lehigh county governments
  • Lehigh University
  • Lafayette College
  • Lehigh Valley Health Network
  • Delaware Realtors Association

Kutztown University’s faculty and alumni have built strong relationships in the eastern Pennsylvania region, which has led to hands-on internship opportunities for students. Our graduate students have had internships with offices like:

  • Cities of Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton
  • Lehigh County Domestic Relations Office
  • Exeter Township
  • Borough of Kutztown
  • PA Department of Transportation
  • State Sen. Judy Schwank
  • S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick
  • Admissions Requirements and Deadlines
    • Application
    • Official transcripts from all previous colleges or universities
    • Resume
    • Three letters of recommendation

      Deadlines

      Fall semester: August 1st

      Spring semester: December 1st

      Summer sessions: May 1st

    Student Learning Outcomes

    • Public Administration (MPA)
      1. Students will be able to apply leadership theories and techniques in managing and governing a political organization.
      2. Students will be able to analyze and disseminate data and information.
      3. Students will be able to apply financial concepts, data and assumptions to develop an accurate, flexible and professional quality budget for a public or not-for-profit organization.
      4. Students will be able to demonstrate proficiency in the management of people and resources.
      5. Students will be able to demonstrate the ability to communicate professionally.

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