The Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree is designed to prepare students for productive and rewarding careers in public service. The format of the program accommodates students currently employed in the public sector as well as students seeking entry-level positions. The MPA program is designed to complement any undergraduate program of study. Applications for admission will be accepted from any qualified candidates regardless of their undergraduate degree. The MPA program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA).
Students pursuing the MPA degree in residence at one of Valdosta State University’s centers must complete 36 semester hours of coursework, including 24 hours of required core courses and 12 hours in a concentration area approved by the MPA Coordinator. The Human Resource Management track is offered at Moody AFB; the Public Sector Management and the Public Policy tracks are offered exclusively via the Internet.
Selected Educational Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the MPA program students will demonstrate the ability to:
- Lead and manage public governance.
- Participate in and contribute to the policy process.
- Analyze, synthesize, think critically, solve problems, and make decisions.
- Articulate and apply a public service perspective.
- Communicate and interact productively with a diverse and changing workforce and citizenry.
Outcome Assessments
- The comprehensive understanding of basic technical skills essential for successful public or not-for-profit management will be demonstrated by successful completion course work and PADM 7900.
- Students will demonstrate an understanding of ethical management in a multicultural context through course papers, portfolio assessment, and employer surveys.
- Students will demonstrate effective communication skills through written and oral presentations in program course work.
- Students will demonstrate familiarity with up-to-date information management systems through course examinations, portfolio analysis, exit and alumni questionnaires, and employer surveys.
Prior to admission to any graduate program at Valdosta State University, applicants must first submit a completed application packet to the Graduate School. A completed application packet includes official transcripts from all institutions previously attended, completed application form, fee, and any additional program requirements submitted by the admission deadline. To be considered for the preferred term, all required materials must be received by the Graduate School no later than the close of business on the deadline. It is the responsibility of the applicant to allow adequate time for document submission and to ensure receipt of documents.
Admission Deadlines
- Fall Deadline: July 15
- Spring Deadline: November 15
- Summer Deadline: April 15
Go to the Graduate School website for information on:
- Specific MPA Program Admission Requirements
- MPA Program Retention, Dismissal, and Readmission Policies
- MPA Program Graduation Requirements
To Apply Online, click here.
Requirements for the Master of Public Administration Degree
(Including On-line Tracks)
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Core (Required) Courses | 24 | |
| PADM 7300 | Foundations Seminar in Public Administration 1 | 3 |
| PADM 7060 | Quantitative Methods for Public Administration | 3 |
| PADM 7410 | Performance Analysis for Government and Non-Government Organizations | 3 |
| PADM 7000 | Human Resource Management | 3 |
| PADM 7110 | Information Management | 3 |
| PADM 7140 | Governmental Budgeting and Finance | 3 |
| PADM 7170 | Organizational Theory and Behavior | 3 |
| PADM 7900 | Capstone in Public Administration | 3 |
| Concentration Area | 12 | |
| All courses for a concentration must be approved by advisor. | ||
| Total Required for the Degree | 36 | |
- 1
Must be taken during first semester.
Requirements for the Master of Public Administration Degree for Students who completed the Accelerated Undergraduate-to-Graduate Track (B.A. in Organizational Leadership or B.A. in Political Science) at VSU
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Students in the Accelerated Track may take 9 graduate credit hours as undergraduates. PADM 7300 is required plus any two of the following: PADM 7000, PADM 7040, PADM 7140, PADM 7170, PADM 7350, PADM 7600. | ||
| Required Core | 15-21 | |
| PADM 7000 | Human Resource Management | 3 |
| PADM 7060 | Quantitative Methods for Public Administration | 3 |
| PADM 7110 | Information Management | 3 |
| PADM 7140 | Governmental Budgeting and Finance | 3 |
| PADM 7170 | Organizational Theory and Behavior | 3 |
| PADM 7300 | Foundations Seminar in Public Administration | 3 |
| PADM 7410 | Performance Analysis for Government and Non-Government Organizations | 3 |
| PADM 7900 | Capstone in Public Administration | 3 |
| Concentration Area | 6-12 | |
| All courses for a concentration must be approved by the student's advisor | ||
| Total Hours Required for the Degree | 27 | |
