Seattle University United States

Public Administration, MPA

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 Seattle University equips you to lead and innovate within public service, addressing critical challenges in government and nonprofit sectors. This postgraduate degree is designed for aspiring public administrators who seek to develop expertise in policy analysis, financial management, and organizational leadership. You will explore essential topics such as local government operations, social justice in the workplace, and strategic planning, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the public service landscape. This program is ideal for those committed to making a tangible impact through effective public administration.

You will pursue this MPA degree on campus, studying full-time over two years, with a curriculum that includes ten required courses, an area of emphasis in government or nonprofit management, and electives. Your studies will involve practical application through coursework in budgeting and financial management, research design, and data analysis for decision-making. You will have the opportunity to focus your studies in areas like policy analysis or nonprofit governance, and can further enrich your experience through an internship. Upon graduation, you will be prepared for impactful careers in public service, equipped with advanced analytical and leadership skills.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Master of Public Administration program provides a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for leadership roles in public service. Core courses cover essential areas such as politics and public administration, economic analysis, organizational behavior, policy processes, and human resource management. Students will also engage in research design and data analysis to inform decision-making. The program further allows for specialization through emphasis courses and electives, offering a wide range of topics including policy analysis, government finance, administrative law, and nonprofit management, alongside practical experiences like internships and independent study.

1 I. Required Courses (30)

Politics and public administration
Economic analysis
Understanding organizations
Policy process
Diversity and social justice in workplace
Human resource management
Budgeting and financial management
Research design
Data analysis for decision making
Capstone in the public service

2 II. Area of Emphasis Courses (9)

Policy analysis
Government finance
Administrative law
Nonprofit sector in society
Nonprofit resource development
Nonprofit governance

3 III. Program Electives (15)

Behavioral economics and public policy
Campaigns and elections
Management and human relations skills
Public budgeting
GIS for public administrators
Global health
Collaboration across sectors
Oral communication for administrators
Communication and advocacy
Social justice and social policy
Introduction to city management
Nonprofit sector in society
Special topics
Internship
Independent study

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,976.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,976.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 41,952.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,039.00 - USD 1,919.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,200.00 - USD 6,000.00
Transport USD 1,200.00 - USD 1,800.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,440.00 - USD 2,400.00
Estimated Total USD 6,840.00 - USD 10,200.00

Living cost estimates are based on Seattle Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Construction Technology & Digital SolutionsCriminal LawDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringIndustrial & Offshore ConstructionProject & Construction ManagementQuality Assurance & TestingReal Estate & Property LawReal Estate DevelopmentTax & Financial LawUrban Mobility & Smart Transport

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon

City of Seattle

Why Study Public Administration, MPA at Seattle University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Life at Seattle 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 Public Administration, MPA at Seattle University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without a separate work permit on campus. Off-campus work may be possible after the first year with university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you must meet specific English test requirements: Duolingo with an overall score of 120, TOEFL with a minimum of 86, IELTS with a minimum of 6.5, or PTE with a score of 58. Each test has specific section score requirements as well.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Public Policy Analyst, City Manager, Nonprofit Director, and Government Relations Officer.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program offers holistic education in areas such as critical thinking and public policy advocacy. You'll gain practical skills for organizational problems, complemented by management and leadership training.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Master of Public Administration program has intake months in January, March, June, and September. You can choose any of these months to start your studies.
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