UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · UNITED STATES
Master of Public Administration (MPA) Online
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 40 UnitsProgram Length
- #4Ranked Public Affairs School
- 24 months or lessCompletion Time
- TwoCertificate Options Available
- TwoOn-Campus Residencies Required
- Not RequiredGRE/GMAT
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) online program from USC Price is designed to equip students with the skills needed for leadership and management in the public sector and beyond. It integrates key disciplines relevant to the modern political environment, connecting research with practical policy and management applications. The curriculum focuses on institutional and organizational competencies, as well as analytical skills, offering flexibility for students to tailor their education to their career goals. The program is delivered online with live classes, but requires two on-campus residencies and a capstone project.
Curriculum
The MPA curriculum is structured around core courses and electives, offering a maximum of flexibility to align with individual career aspirations. Students can also pursue an optional certificate in Public Policy or City and County Management within the degree's unit structure.
- Core Curriculum
- Policy and Program Evaluation
- Public Financial Management and Budgeting
- Urban Planning and Social Policy
- Local Government and Nonprofit Management
- Electives & Certificates
- Certificate in Public Policy
- Certificate in City and County Management
Careers
Graduates of the MPA program are prepared for diverse roles in public administration and related sectors. The skills acquired enable advancement in government, nonprofit, and private sector organizations.
- Government Administration
- Education Administration
- Consulting
- Nonprofit Organizational Management
- Philanthropy
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the MPA Online program?
- GRE/GMAT scores are not required for admission to the MPA Online program. You will need to review the general graduate admissions criteria for USC and prepare application materials such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
- How long does the MPA Online program take to complete?
- The MPA Online program requires 40 units and can be completed in 24 months or less. The program includes two on-campus residencies and a capstone project.
- What are the tuition fees for the MPA Online program?
- Specific tuition and living costs are not detailed in the provided information. Students are advised to consult the university for current fee structures. Financial aid and scholarships may be available.
- When is the application deadline for the MPA Online program?
- The application deadline for Fall intake is typically June 6th. Applications open on January 2nd, and the program start date for Fall intake is August 24th.
- What are the career outcomes for MPA Online graduates?
- Graduates are prepared for roles in Government Administration, Education Administration, Consulting, Nonprofit Organizational Management, and Philanthropy. The program equips students with skills for leadership in public, nonprofit, and private sectors.
- Are there any scholarship opportunities available for the MPA Online program?
- While specific scholarships for the MPA Online program are not detailed, the university notes that financial aid and scholarships may be available. The Heather Anne Barnes Endowed Scholarship is mentioned, but it is for the USC Dornsife Psychology department.
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Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
Living—
Specific tuition and living costs are not detailed on the provided pages. Students are advised to consult the university for current fee structures. Financial aid and scholarships may be available.
How to apply
1. Review Admissions RequirementsEnsure you meet the general admissions criteria for graduate programs at USC. Note that GRE/GMAT scores are not required for this program.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, which typically include transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Specific requirements can be found on the program's admissions page.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form through the USC admissions portal.
4. Meet Application DeadlineEnsure your application and all supporting documents are submitted by the application deadline for your intended start term. For Fall admissions, the deadline is typically June 6th.
5. Attend On-Campus ResidenciesThe program includes two required on-campus residencies. Plan accordingly for these immersive learning experiences.
Scholarships
Heather Anne Barnes Endowed Scholarship—
Accreditation
NASPAA-accredited
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the MPA Online program?
+
GRE/GMAT scores are not required for admission to the MPA Online program. You will need to review the general graduate admissions criteria for USC and prepare application materials such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
How long does the MPA Online program take to complete?
+
The MPA Online program requires 40 units and can be completed in 24 months or less. The program includes two on-campus residencies and a capstone project.
What are the tuition fees for the MPA Online program?
+
Specific tuition and living costs are not detailed in the provided information. Students are advised to consult the university for current fee structures. Financial aid and scholarships may be available.
When is the application deadline for the MPA Online program?
+
The application deadline for Fall intake is typically June 6th. Applications open on January 2nd, and the program start date for Fall intake is August 24th.
What are the career outcomes for MPA Online graduates?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles in Government Administration, Education Administration, Consulting, Nonprofit Organizational Management, and Philanthropy. The program equips students with skills for leadership in public, nonprofit, and private sectors.
Are there any scholarship opportunities available for the MPA Online program?
+
While specific scholarships for the MPA Online program are not detailed, the university notes that financial aid and scholarships may be available. The Heather Anne Barnes Endowed Scholarship is mentioned, but it is for the USC Dornsife Psychology department.