Villanova University United States

Master of Public Administration with Certificate in City Management

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 with Certificate in City Management at Villanova University is designed for aspiring public service leaders seeking to enhance their expertise in local governance and urban development. You will explore critical areas such as effective city management, urban politics, financial administration, and strategic planning, gaining the knowledge to address complex challenges in public administration. This postgraduate program equips you with the analytical and leadership skills necessary to make a significant impact in municipal and regional government sectors.

This full-time, on-campus Master's degree is studied over two years, offering a comprehensive curriculum that includes core courses like MPA 8500: Effective City Management and MPA 8550: Urban Politics and Government, alongside electives allowing you to specialise in areas such as economic development strategies or land-use policy. You will engage in practical learning experiences, potentially including individual research projects (MPA 8012 and MPA 8013), preparing you for advanced roles in city management, public policy analysis, and urban planning upon graduation.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program equips students with the essential skills for effective city management through required courses in effective city management, urban politics and government, and financial management. Elective courses allow for specialization in areas such as strategic planning, managing public networks, land-use and zoning, performance measurement, economic development, labor relations, program evaluation, and public affairs, with opportunities for individual research.

1 Required courses: (3 courses)

Effective City Management Compulsory
Urban Politics and Government Compulsory
Financial Management Compulsory

2 Elective courses

Strategic Planning
Managing Public Networks
Land-Use and Zoning
Performance Measurement
Economic Development Strategies
Labor Relations
Program Evaluation
Effective Public Affairs
Individual Research I and II

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,190.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,190.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 34,380.00

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

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Montgomery Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationAerospace Supply Chain & LogisticsArtificial Intelligence & Machine LearningAviation Safety & RegulationCurriculum & Instructional DesignCybersecurityEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationProduct Management & UXRegulatory & Government Affairs

Top Employers Hiring for this course

United State Army

United States Air Force

United States Department of State

Urban Company

Why Study Master of Public Administration with Certificate in City Management at Villanova University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

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

Life at Villanova 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 with Certificate in City Management at Villanova 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 a separate permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, you can use Duolingo with a minimum overall score of 120, TOEFL with an overall score of 80, or IELTS with an overall score of 6.5. Ensure you meet the specific sub-score requirements as well.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include City Manager, Urban Planner, Policy Analyst, Public Affairs Specialist, and Community Development Director.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Graduate Certificate in City Management consists of 15 credits and is based on 17 Practices for effective local government management. This program includes five courses focusing on key areas such as governance and community engagement.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Master of Public Administration program has three intake months: January, May, and August. You can apply for admission during any of these months.
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