Getting ready for your career

If you’re an undergraduate student interested in a career in the public sector, the accelerated master’s program in public administration might be right for you.

This track allows you to earn credit toward your undergraduate and graduate degrees at the same time.

Accelerated Master's

Overview of program

You’re showing great initiative. This is one of the key skills in leading organizations, executing effective policy and meeting the needs of society.

The Master of Public Administration is a great fit for you. Having this degree increases your earning potential and puts you ahead of many other competitors in the job market.

To complete this degree, you must:

  • Complete 39 hours of course work
  • Have a minimum overall GPA of 3.0
  • Earn a 3.5 GPA in the political science or public administration curriculum

You’ll complete:

  • Foundational courses in policy, fiscal management and leadership principles
  • An internship
  • A comprehensive exam
  • A research component

You’ll also select one focus area from our many certificate programs to round out your course work.

Explore concentration areas

Get started

  1. Apply for admission to the MPA program during your junior year.
  2. Request and receive a sponsorship letter from a political science faculty member recommending you for the program.
  3. You must then be accepted into the accelerated program.
  4. Get approval from the MPA graduate program director, department head and the dean of the Graduate College.