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.
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.