The MPA degree (master of public administration) is designed to build the knowledge base and skills of people who are playing or intend to play a leadership role in organizations that develop or implement public policy. In addition, the program is among the first to address implications of the growing reliance of government on a wide range of third parties, including other governments, private contractors, and nonprofits, for public goals and accountability.
Transfer of Credit
Students may transfer credit into the MPA Program from graduate courses taken at other institutions or taken at Mason in nondegree status. Transfer credit is subject to university and college policies and must be approved by the MPA Program director and the dean. Students who enroll initially through nondegree studies should submit their application to the MPA Program in the first semester of study. Only 9 credits taken in nondegree status may be transferred to the degree program.
Degree Requirements (Catalog Year 2012-2013)
In addition to meeting the following requirements for this degree, students must meet the university requirements for all master's degrees.
The required courses emphasize the development of knowledge about public policy and management, as well as analytical problem-solving and communication skills, and third-party governance. Through these courses, students develop a shared knowledge base and skill set. The elective courses can be used by students to focus their knowledge and skill development within one concentration. Alternatively, the electives can be used to extend the breadth of study with courses drawn from a variety of concentrations or from other departments and schools across the university.
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Six core courses (18 credits): PUAD 502, 511, 520, 540, 700, 703
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One additional methods course (3 credits) chosen from: PUAD 612, 613, 645, 646
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One course (3 credits) in accounting, budgeting, and financial management chosen from: PUAD 660, 662, 663, 664
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Four elective courses (12 credits)
Students may take their elective courses within one of the concentrations listed to the right. As an alternative, with the approval of their advisor, students may select their elective courses from several concentrations or fields.
Total: 36 Credits
Requirements may be different for earlier catalog years. See the University Catalog archives.