Master of Public Administration

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) at Southern Illinois University is designed for aspiring leaders and managers seeking to enhance their expertise in public service, nonprofit management, and aviation administration. This postgraduate degree equips you with the essential knowledge and skills to navigate complex organizational challenges and drive positive change within public, private, and non-profit sectors. You will explore core competencies in public administration, including research methods, budgeting, and leadership, preparing you for impactful careers in a dynamic field.

This MPA program is studied full-time on campus over two years, offering a comprehensive curriculum that includes eight required courses, 12 credit hours of electives, and a capstone seminar. You will have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as Aviation Administration or pursue a joint MPA/JD degree, tailoring your education to your specific career aspirations. Graduates will be prepared to assume roles in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and aviation management, armed with advanced analytical and leadership capabilities.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Master of Public Administration program equips students with essential skills for leadership and management in public service. Core coursework covers research methods, administrative foundations, program analysis, budgeting, human resources, organizational behavior, and leadership. Specializations, such as Aviation Administration, offer focused study in areas like aviation policy, airport administration, and international aviation. The program also includes practical experience through an internship requirement.

1 Core Requirements - 24 credit hours

Research Methods for Public Administrators
Foundations of Public Administration
Program Analysis and Evaluation
Public Budgeting and Fiscal Management
Human Resource Management
Organization Theory and Behavior
Leadership in Public Administration
Capstone Seminar in Public Administration

2 Aviation Administration Concentration Core Requirements - 25 credit hours

Research Methods for Public Administrators
Ethical Foundations of Public Service
Seminar in Public Management
Public Budgeting and Fiscal Management
Human Resource Management
Organization Theory and Behavior
Leadership in Public Administration
Public Financial Administration
Preprofessional Seminar in Public Administration

3 Aviation Requirements - 12 credit hours

Aviation Policy, Law and Regulation
Advanced Airport Administration
Advanced Airport Safety Administration
Aviation Planning
International Aviation

4 Internship Requirement - 3 credit hours

Internship in Public Affairs

5 Master of Public Administration/J.D. Concurrent Degrees - Core Requirements - 22 credit hours

Research Methods for Public Administrators
Program Analysis and Evaluation
Seminar in Public Management
Public Budgeting and Fiscal Management
Human Resource Management
Organization Theory and Behavior
Leadership in Public Administration
Preprofessional Seminar in Public Administration

6 Master of Public Administration/J.D. Concurrent Degrees - Law Requirements - 15 credit hours

7 Master of Public Administration/J.D. Concurrent Degrees - Internship Requirement - 3 credit hours

Internship in Public Affairs

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,170.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,170.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 56,340.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,950.00 - USD 2,250.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Carbondale campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

53%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Aerospace ManufacturingAerospace Research & AcademiaAirport Infrastructure & Aviation SecurityAviation & Air TransportFleet Management & OperationsMaritime & ShippingRail & Mass TransitSpace Exploration & Satellite TechnologyUnmanned Aerial Vehicles (Drones)Urban Mobility & Smart Transport

Top Employers Hiring for this course

United State Army

United States Air Force

Why Study Master of Public Administration at Southern Illinois University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Southern Illinois University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Southern Illinois University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Master of Public Administration at Southern Illinois University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require separate approvals.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English proficiency is required for the MPA program. Accepted tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, with specific score thresholds for each test.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as Public Administrator, Nonprofit Manager, Aviation Manager, Policy Analyst, or Government Consultant.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) at Southern Illinois University focuses on public service, nonprofit management, and aviation administration. The program includes core competencies such as research methods and budgeting to prepare students for leadership roles.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Master of Public Administration program at Southern Illinois University has two intake months: January and August. Students can start their journey towards a career in public service during these times.
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