The Master of Public Administration (MPA) at the University of Alabama Birmingham is designed for aspiring public servants and nonprofit leaders seeking to develop essential skills in administrative ethics, public policymaking, and financial management. You will explore the critical challenges and opportunities within public and nonprofit sectors, preparing you for impactful careers in government and community organisations. This postgraduate degree offers a robust foundation in the scope of public administration and the quantitative methods necessary for effective governance and data-driven decision-making.
This full-time, on-campus MPA programme is completed over one year, offering two distinct pathways: a thesis option or a non-thesis option with a graduate learning portfolio. You will engage with core coursework covering administrative ethics, budgeting, and human resources, alongside opportunities to specialise through electives in areas like nonprofit management, GIS for managers, or program evaluation. You will graduate with practical experience, potentially including an internship or independent study, ready to pursue leadership roles in public service or the nonprofit sector.