UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN · UNITED STATES
Master of Public Affairs (MPA)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€26k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 24 monthsProgram Duration
- 30 credit hoursProgram Size
- Small cohortLearning Environment
- Focus on policy analysis, management, and leadershipKey Skills
- Access to electives across U-MElective Options
- Minimum 5 years of policy-relevant work experience requiredExperience Requirement
The Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program at the University of Michigan's Ford School is designed for experienced professionals seeking to advance their careers in public policy and management. This 30-credit, two-semester program combines rigorous training in applied policy analysis with the development of essential management, leadership, and communication skills. It focuses on complex domestic and international policy issues, preparing graduates for senior roles in government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in economics, statistics, ethics, politics, and policy writing, allowing for customization through electives across various University of Michigan schools.
Curriculum
The MPA curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of public policy and administration. It includes core coursework in essential analytical and managerial skills, complemented by electives to tailor the program to individual interests. Students will develop expertise in quantitative analysis, economics, political and ethical considerations, and leadership, alongside strategic communication abilities.
- Year 1
- StatisticsPubPol 529
- Microeconomics OR Budgeting & Financial PlanningPubPol 555 OR PubPol 715
- Additional Quantitative Methods Course
- Politics of Public Policy OR Values & EthicsPubPol 510 OR PubPol 580
- Negotiations OR Conflict ResolutionPubPol 583 OR PubPol 589
- Leading Organizations OR Public and Performance ManagementPubPol 582 OR PubPol 588
- Electives
Careers
MPA graduates are prepared for senior leadership roles in a variety of sectors. The program's strong analytical and management training equips alumni to tackle complex policy challenges and lead organizations effectively.
- Senior roles in government (local, state, federal, international)
- Leadership positions in nonprofit organizations
- Government affairs roles in the private sector
- Policy advisor
- Public affairs specialist
- Managerial positions in public agencies
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program?
- You need a completed undergraduate degree and a minimum of five years of policy-relevant work experience. This experience can be in government, military, private sector government affairs, or the nonprofit sector.
- How long is the MPA program and how many credits does it require?
- The MPA program is designed to be completed in 24 months and requires 30 credit hours of coursework.
- What is the tuition for international students for the 2025-26 academic year?
- Tuition for non-residents is $15,204 per term for 9+ credit hours, with mandatory fees of an additional $241.19 per term for the Fall and Winter terms.
- What kind of career opportunities can I expect after completing the MPA?
- Graduates are prepared for senior roles in government (local, state, federal, international), leadership positions in nonprofit organizations, and government affairs roles in the private sector.
- How do I apply for the MPA program?
- You must complete the online application, provide academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, a resume/CV, and obtain at least two letters of recommendation. An application fee is also required.
- When is the application deadline for the Fall 2026 intake?
- The application deadline for the Fall 2026 intake is August 1, 2026.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA completed undergraduate degree is required.
Work ExperienceA minimum of five years of policy-relevant work experience after completing an undergraduate degree is required. This experience can be in government, military, private sector government affairs, or the nonprofit sector.
The program is designed for seasoned professionals. Applicants are expected to have a strong academic record and significant professional experience.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition for non-residents is $15,204 per term for 9+ credit hours. Mandatory fees are an additional $241.19 per term. This is for the 2025-26 academic year, full term (Fall & Winter).
Tuition (home)Tuition for Michigan residents is $15,204 per term for 9+ credit hours. Mandatory fees are an additional $241.19 per term. This is for the 2025-26 academic year, full term (Fall & Winter).
Living—
Tuition is charged per credit hour or full-time status. The figures provided are for the 2025-26 academic year for the Fall and Winter terms. Spring and Summer terms have different rates. Please refer to the University of Michigan's Office of the Registrar for the most up-to-date information and additional fees that may apply.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit your application through the Ford School's admissions portal. Ensure all sections are completed accurately.
2. Provide Academic TranscriptsSubmit official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended.
3. Write a Statement of PurposeArticulate your career goals, relevant experience, and reasons for pursuing the MPA at the Ford School.
4. Submit a Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)Highlight your professional experience, skills, and accomplishments.
5. Obtain Letters of RecommendationTypically, you will need at least two, preferably from individuals who can speak to your professional capabilities and potential for graduate study.
6. Pay the Application FeeA non-refundable application fee is required for all applications.
Scholarships
Fellowship SupportVariable
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program?
+
You need a completed undergraduate degree and a minimum of five years of policy-relevant work experience. This experience can be in government, military, private sector government affairs, or the nonprofit sector.
How long is the MPA program and how many credits does it require?
+
The MPA program is designed to be completed in 24 months and requires 30 credit hours of coursework.
What is the tuition for international students for the 2025-26 academic year?
+
Tuition for non-residents is $15,204 per term for 9+ credit hours, with mandatory fees of an additional $241.19 per term for the Fall and Winter terms.
What kind of career opportunities can I expect after completing the MPA?
+
Graduates are prepared for senior roles in government (local, state, federal, international), leadership positions in nonprofit organizations, and government affairs roles in the private sector.
How do I apply for the MPA program?
+
You must complete the online application, provide academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, a resume/CV, and obtain at least two letters of recommendation. An application fee is also required.
When is the application deadline for the Fall 2026 intake?
+
The application deadline for the Fall 2026 intake is August 1, 2026.