UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · UNITED STATES
International Master of Public Administration (I-MPA)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€71k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 12 monthsProgram Duration
- 10 coursesCurriculum
- 12 c.u.Course Units
- Leadership Task GroupsCollaborative Learning
- Capstone ProjectApplied Research
The International Master of Public Administration (I-MPA) program at the University of Pennsylvania is an intensive, one-year graduate program designed for leaders aiming to enhance their skills in governance, collaboration, and public service. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary approaches, and practical problem-solving through a blend of individual coursework, small-group learning within Leadership Task Groups (LTGs), and collaborative projects. Students engage with complex global issues and develop strategies for effective leadership in public, private, and non-profit sectors. The program structure consists of ten courses, totaling 12 course units (c.u.), completed over two semesters. Students have the option to extend their studies with a full-semester capstone project course, building directly on coursework from the previous year, which results in an individual research paper. This capstone allows for deep dives into specific global challenges, guided by expert faculty and relevant case studies.
Curriculum
The I-MPA curriculum is structured around three core areas: Intellectual Frameworks, Interdisciplinary Foundations, and Curricular Capstones. Each course unit (c.u.) represents a measure of academic work typically completed over a semester.
- First Semester (Fall)
- Critical Issues in Governance—Strategic ManagementI-MPA 6010
- Quantitative Reasoning for Real-Time Problem-SolvingI-MPA 6030 or 6031
- Collaboration across Sectors: Boundary-Spanning LeadershipI-MPA 6040
- Global Issues in Child Residential and Foster Care OR Global Leadership and Transnational Religious OrganizationsI-MPA 6045 or 6046
- Economic Reasoning for Strategic Decision-MakingI-MPA 6055
- Second Semester (Spring)
- Curricular Capstone Project (Global Aging OR Creation, Enforcement, and Implementation Challenges)I-MPA 6095 or 6096
- Leadership, Theory, and Biographical Analysis OR Critical Issues in Leadership Theory and Innovation ManagementI-MPA 6100 or 6101
- Third Semester (Optional Extension)
- Study Extension Course (Capstone Paper)
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the International Master of Public Administration (I-MPA) program?
- The I-MPA program is an intensive, one-year graduate program. It consists of ten courses totaling 12 course units, typically completed over two semesters.
- What are the estimated tuition fees for the I-MPA program?
- Estimated tuition for Fall 2026-Spring 2027 is $41,652 per semester, totaling $83,304 for the degree. This total includes tuition, a general fee, and a clinical fee.
- How do I apply to the I-MPA program?
- Applicants must apply directly to the I-MPA program at the University of Pennsylvania. Do not use a central graduate admissions office; contact the program directly for all inquiries and application procedures.
- What are the entry requirements for the I-MPA program?
- A completed undergraduate degree is required for admission. Applicants are directed to contact the program directly for specific admission requirements and application procedures.
- What career paths can I pursue after completing the I-MPA program?
- The I-MPA program is designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles in government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector, focusing on governance, cross-sector collaboration, and strategic decision-making.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA completed undergraduate degree is required. Specific GPA requirements are not detailed but good academic standing is expected.
Applicants are directed to contact the program directly for specific admission requirements and application procedures.
Fees
Tuition (international)Estimated tuition for Fall 2026-Spring 2027 is $41,652 per semester, totaling $83,304 for the degree. This includes tuition, a general fee ($2,134 per semester), and a clinical fee ($385 per semester).
Tuition (home)Tuition rates are the same for all students, including international and domestic applicants.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided.
Tuition and fees are estimates and subject to change. Rates are based on registering for 6 course units (c.u.) per semester. Accurate fees for Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 will be updated in Spring 2026.
How to apply
1. Direct Application to ProgramApplicants must apply directly to the I-MPA program at the University of Pennsylvania. Do not use a central graduate admissions office.
2. Contact Program for DetailsAll questions regarding the admissions process, specific requirements, and application procedures should be directed to the I-MPA program at Penn-IMPA@sas.upenn.edu or by calling (215) 746-6905.
Scholarships
LPS Scholarship Fund—
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the International Master of Public Administration (I-MPA) program?
+
The I-MPA program is an intensive, one-year graduate program. It consists of ten courses totaling 12 course units, typically completed over two semesters.
What are the estimated tuition fees for the I-MPA program?
+
Estimated tuition for Fall 2026-Spring 2027 is $41,652 per semester, totaling $83,304 for the degree. This total includes tuition, a general fee, and a clinical fee.
How do I apply to the I-MPA program?
+
Applicants must apply directly to the I-MPA program at the University of Pennsylvania. Do not use a central graduate admissions office; contact the program directly for all inquiries and application procedures.
What are the entry requirements for the I-MPA program?
+
A completed undergraduate degree is required for admission. Applicants are directed to contact the program directly for specific admission requirements and application procedures.
What career paths can I pursue after completing the I-MPA program?
+
The I-MPA program is designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles in government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector, focusing on governance, cross-sector collaboration, and strategic decision-making.