Online Master of Public Administration
PROGRAM AT A GLANCE
Why earn a master’s in public administration from Strayer?
Our online Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree is designed for professionals who want to begin or enhance a career in public service or nonprofit management. You’ll learn how to manage all aspects of nonprofits, government organizations and publicly engaged organizations – from people and assets to funding and public relations.
Gain the expertise to pursue leadership in nonprofits and government
Serving in government or nonprofits allows you to help make a positive impact on communities. Strayer’s Master of Public Administration examines the principles of public administration, public policy management and implementation. You’ll learn about all aspects of managing these organizations. You’ll also gain an understanding of how to manage local, state and federal funds for efficiency and effectiveness.
Skills you’ll learn in a Strayer Master of Public Administration program
A Strayer degree can help prepare you for career opportunities in public administration while offering support, flexible learning options and career planning every step of the way.Develop qualitative and quantitative analytical skills.
- Develop qualitative and quantitative analytical skills.
- Acquire knowledge of policy analysis and evaluation.
- Develop citizenship skills and an understanding of public administrators in prescribed roles.
- Advance skills critical to success in all aspects of public administration.
Earn your degree from an accredited university
Strayer University is an accredited institution and a member of the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE or the Commission) www.msche.org. Strayer University’s accreditation status is Accreditation Reaffirmed. The Commission’s most recent action on the institution’s accreditation status on June 22, 2017 was to reaffirm accreditation. MSCHE is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education to conduct accreditation and pre-accreditation (candidate status) activities for institutions of higher education including distance, correspondence education, and direct assessment programs offered at those institutions. The Commission’s geographic area of accrediting activities is throughout the United States.
Estimate the cost of your degree
How much does a master's in public administration cost?
*Additional Fees Apply. Eligibility rules and restrictions apply. Connect with us for details.
Estimate the cost of your degree
How much does a master's in public administration cost?
*Additional Fees Apply. Eligibility rules and restrictions apply. Connect with us for details.
Expected Graduation
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*Student is required to take two courses per quarter during disbursement period
PREPARING YOUR RESULTS
Time commitment
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Cost analysis
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Program cost breakdown
The MPA program consists of 10 courses, with the price of $2,000 per course. There are additional fees for textbooks and supplies, a $65 technology fee each term and a one-time $150 degree conferral fee.
Transfer credits
Courses from another institution may be eligible for transfer credits to Strayer, which can help reduce the number of courses you need to graduate and your overall tuition. You can transfer up to four classes toward your master’s degree. The Strayer transfer credit page has more information as well as a tool to estimate how many transfer credits you may be able to apply to your Strayer degree program.
Students enrolled in the Master of Business Administration in North Carolina or Pennsylvania may transfer up to four classes
Scholarships and financial aid
There are a number of financial aid options worth exploring on our financial aid page. To apply for federal aid, prospective students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Stafford loans are available for graduate study. These are direct unsubsidized loans, not based on financial need. Unlike subsidized loans, Stafford loan interest will accrue while in the program. Making interest payments while in school will help reduce the amount of principal that would otherwise build up, reducing your end cost.
There are also scholarships and private loans available for Strayer students.
More than 500 organizations invest in their employees by partnering with Strayer University to offer access to tuition savings and other educational benefits. If your employer is a corporate partner, you may qualify for programs that can help you discover career pathways in your field.
Private loans
Non-federal loans may pay the difference between the cost of attendance and the total of loans and grants received from other tuition assistance programs. The terms and conditions of federal loans are often more favorable than private loans and should be considered before exploring private loans.
Military tuition assistance
Scholarships are offered to eligible students currently serving in the military, as well as military spouses. Strayer is also approved by Veterans Affairs to accept and process veteran education benefits. Learn more about the Strayer University active military assistance program here.
Veteran benefits
In addition to participating fully in the Yellow Ribbon Program, Strayer is approved by Veterans Affairs to accept and process veteran education benefits. Student veterans can receive transfer credit for military training and life experiences.
What coursework do you need to specialize in public administration?
Your MPA coursework includes guidance on how to manage all aspects of nonprofits, government organizations and publicly engaged organizations. You’ll learn about the issues and limitations faced by those organizations, public budgeting and finance, and policy analysis and program evaluation. View all courses.
Sample courses
Public Administration is primarily involved with public service and policy which may involve managing and securing funds ...Read more
Examine key financial institutions, processes and techniques relating to public budgeting, revenue and expenditure. Cover...Read more
Examine models of leadership and the societal and personal assumptions about them. Discuss elements, factors and processe...Read more
Examine the historical developments of community planning. Evaluate aspects of urban planning, including housing, communi...Read more
Examine public administration as described within the U.S. constitution and U.S. legal system. Study this foundation for ...Read more
Analyze basic principles and functions of personnel administration in public service; review personnel functions includin...Read more
What can you do with a Master of Public Administration degree?
Your education can help you pursue your professional and personal goals. While Strayer cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific career outcome, such as a job title, promotion or salary increase, we encourage you to explore the potential impact you can have in the education field.
Versatile skills for your future
The Master of Public Administration program can help you understand the principles of public administration, public policy management and implementation so you can ensure that public resources are used efficiently.
In addition, students who complete this concentration will be prepared to:
- Develop government plans that impact land use, zoning, community spaces, housing, transportation and more.
- Obtain and process key information from various sources and share information with the public.
- Create and manage procedures to help achieve objectives set by members of a board or management.
- Contribute to the development of organizational policies around participant eligibility, and program requirements and benefits.
- Manage policy and procedures in public service to ensure they follow all appropriate laws and regulations.
- Meet with civic, community and education groups to plan community programs and events.
- Oversee communication strategies and information programs.
- Build and maintain relationships with clients, government officials and members of the media.
- Prepare budgets and financial reports.
86
of Strayer master's alumni agree that Strayer was the right choice for earning their degree.
Strayer Alumni Survey, 2023
A completed application and enrollment agreement, as applicable
Proof of a completed baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of 2.50 out of 4.0
Official copies of transcripts from all other colleges or universities attended
A valid, current and legible government-issued photo identification
Learn more about the admission process at Strayer.
Students applying to Washington, D.C., or New Jersey campuses must provide proof of proper immunization.
Transferring to Strayer from another university?
Some or all of the credits you’ve earned may be transferable.
International master’s students
We welcome international students.
MPA admission requirements
Before you can pursue your master’s degree, you’ll need to enroll at Strayer. Here’s what you’ll need to get started for admission to the university.
Campus locations
Come to a campus near you for guidance and support. You’ll have access to helpful resources, a supportive community and plenty of spaces to learn and grow.
Ready to take the next step?
Your admissions officer is here to guide you through every step of the process, from completing your application to choosing your concentration.