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In this article, we profile the top 50 most affordable master’s in public administration online degree programs.

Public administration can be defined as policy implementation by civil servants. A degree in public administration lays the foundation and provides the academic knowledge for individuals pursuing careers in public administration in both government and non-governmental or nonprofit organizations. An MPA degree is ideal for those interested in becoming industry experts and leaders in the public sector.

For the purpose of this list, we looked at 155 colleges and universities that offered online master’s in public administration, or closely related, degree programs. To be included on our list, the school and/or program must be regionally or nationally accredited and offer the graduate program we were reviewing. The most recent graduate tuition and fees were gathered from the National Center for Education Statistics (College Navigator). We selected schools with a graduate program cost of less than $25,000 per year. In addition to the tuition and accreditation criteria, we attempted to only select schools that had received recognition or rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report.

Below is our list of the 50 most affordable online master’s in public administration degree programs.

#50 – University of San Francisco

Online Master’s in Public Administration

San Francisco, California

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $24,260

The University of San Francisco offers a master’s in public administration online that focuses on training and educating students interested in public policy leadership positions within a variety of organizations. The program admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, two letters of recommendation, current resume, statement of purpose, and a 2.7 GPA (3.0 preferred). GRE scores are not required. The entire 39-credit curriculum is delivered online for maximum flexibility and includes courses such as economics and finances for public managers, public administration as theory and practice in the contemporary society, and public policy analysis. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of San Francisco #110 in national universities and #108 in public affairs.

#49 – Northeastern University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Boston, Massachusetts

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $23,688

Northeastern University’s online master’s in public administration is offered to prospective students considering a career in public policy and leadership. The curriculum is geared towards the development of conceptual and analytical skill sets needed to be effective leaders in today’s public organizations. The program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA). Admission requirements include personal statement, three letters of recommendation, resume, and GRE scores. Courses include institutional leadership and the public manager, principles of public administration, and public personnel administration. U.S. News and World Report ranks Northeastern #40 in national universities and #77 in public affairs.

#48 – Seton Hall University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

South Orange, New Jersey

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $22,468

While many schools offer online MPA programs geared toward generalist positions in public leadership, Seton Hall University’s online MPA program specializes in preparing graduates to assume careers within the non-profit space. The program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA). Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree, statement of purpose, 3.0 GPA, and three letters of recommendation (including one from an academic source). The program is delivered completely online and includes coursework such as the environment of public service management, financial management for non-profit organizations, non-profit HR management and volunteer management, and non-profit law. U.S. News ranks Seton Hall #124 in national universities.

#47 – Nova Southeastern University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,419

Nova Southeastern University offers affordable online MPA programs accredited by the NASPAA Commission on Peer Review and Accreditation and delivered through the Huizenga College of Business. Students can choose from a variety of concentrations including state and local administration, criminal justice, non-profit, and disaster and emergency management. Admission requirements include a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree and a 2.5 undergraduate GPA. Students with GPAs under the 2.5 threshold may be considered for admission, but must submit acceptable GMAT/GRE scores. Classes include administrative law and ethics in the public sector, managing information technology in the public sector, and public administration theory and application. U.S. News ranks Nova Southeastern #198 in national universities.

#46 – DePaul University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Chicago, Illinois

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,689

DePaul University offers online public administration degrees in specific concentration areas including emergency management, metropolitan and urban affairs, international public management, and public management. The program content is delivered entirely online and can be completed in 2.25 years assuming a course load of two classes per year. Admission requirements include a completed online application, current resume, and two-page personal statement. The degree requires completion of 52 credits (13 courses) including core classes such as applied statistics for public service, economic foundations of public service, fundamentals of human resource management, and research methods of public service. U.S. News and World Report ranks DePaul University #120 in national universities.

#45 – Norwich University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Northfield, Vermont

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,578

Norwich University offers an online master’s in public administration that can be completed in just 18 months. In an effort to maximize student/faculty interaction, student cohorts are capped at 15. Admission requirements for the MPA program include a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or a foreign equivalent for non-US based students. Students are also required to provide a current resume, letter of intent, and letter of recommendation. The 36-credit program consists of six courses delivered in 11-week semesters. Classes include foundations of public administration and policy, public administration research and analysis, and public organization resources and processes. Once core classes are complete, students can choose from a variety of concentrations depending on career trajectory and interest. U.S. News ranks Norwich University #86 in regional universities North.

#44 – Rutgers University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

New Brunswick, New Jersey

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,984

Rutgers University offers online public administration degrees through its Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration and is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration. Admission requirements include GRE scores for students with a GPA less than 3.0, three letters of recommendation, personal statement, and resume. The curriculum prepares students for leadership roles within a variety of public organizations and sectors. The degree offers four concentration areas of public and non-profit performance management, healthcare administration, nonprofit management, or finance and budgeting management. U.S. News and World Report ranks Rutgers #52 in public affairs and #31 in public health.

#43 – Villanova University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Villanova, Pennsylvania

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,473

Villanova University offers public administration programs online that include two specializations and three graduate certificates. The online program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA). The two concentrations include nonprofit management and city management. The three graduate certificates include public administration, nonprofit management, and city management. Courses within the core curriculum are analysis and research, financial management, organizational theory, and public personnel management. In total, the degree consists of 36 credits that can be earned 100% online. U.S. News and World Report ranks Villanova University #46 in national universities and #87 in public affairs.

#42 – Golden Gate University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

San Francisco, California

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,355

Golden Gate University offers online MPA programs with concentrations such as general public administration, judicial administration, and law enforcement and security. Courses within the program include budgeting and financial management, public enterprise management and public sector business relations, and public policy analysis and program evaluation. To buttress the program, Golden Gate has partnered with the American Society for Public Administration, the International City/County Management Association, and the University of the Philippines National College of Public Administration and Governance. Golden Gate is an institutional member of the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration. The degree can be completed in as little as 18 months.

#41 – Lindenwood University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Saint Charles, Missouri

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,960

Lindenwood University confers a master’s in public administration online for individuals seeking a career in leadership in public and government organizations. The Lindenwood MPA is 36 total credits that are delivered completely online. Coursework includes governmental budgeting, public administration principles applications and ethics, business government environment, and economic analysis for policy makers. Graduates may qualify for careers in a variety of governmental positions at the local, regional, state, and federal levels. Lindenwood University has been continuously accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1921 and is affiliated with the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. U.S. News and World Report ranks Lindenwood University #231 in national universities.

#40 – West Chester University

Online Master’s in Public Policy and Administration

West Chester, Pennsylvania

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,121

West Chester University offers an online master’s in public administration for individuals seeking leadership careers in the public and nonprofit sectors. The program’s admission requirements include a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, goal statement, two recommendations from former or current supervisors, and a current resume. The GRE or GMAT is not required for admission. The degree consists of 36-39 credit hours, including 21 core credits, 12 concentration area credits, and a 3-credit capstone project. The MPA program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA). U.S. News and World Report ranks West Chester University #64 in regional universities North.

#39 – University of Baltimore

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Baltimore, Maryland

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,116

The University of Baltimore offers affordable online MPA programs designed to be delivered entirely online for students seeking careers in public service and leadership. The admission requirements include a 3.0 undergraduate GPA from a regionally accredited college or university or an undergraduate degree and 12 graduate credits with a “B” average. Other requirements include two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and official transcripts. Courses within the degree include bureaucracy and the political process, legal and ethical environment of public administration, public budgeting and fiscal administration, and public program evaluation. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Baltimore #146 in regional universities North.

#38 – National University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

La Jolla, California

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,976

National University offers public administration programs online for prospective students seeking public positions at all levels of government including local, state, and federal. The degree also prepares students for policy and administrative positions in the nonprofit sector. The 12-course degree consists of 54 units with the ability to transfer in 13.5 units from another institution. Some of the eight core classes are financial management and grant administration, foundations of public policy, public personnel policy, and urban planning and redevelopment. Students can choose from specializations in human resource management and organizational leadership. National University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

#37 – Marist College

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Poughkeepsie, New York

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,400

While many colleges and universities offer online public administration degrees, Marist College confers a 100% online MPA with three concentration areas including ethical leadership, healthcare administration, and public management. The Marist program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) and focuses on teaching students a blend of theory, values, and skills needed to lead today’s public entities and organizations. Admission requirements stipulate students must submit a current resume, GRE scores no older than five years, personal essay, and official transcripts. Foundational courses all students must take include human resource management in public organizations, politics and policy, and statistics for public managers. U.S. News and World Report ranks Marist College #9 in regional colleges North and #135 in public affairs.

#36 – California Baptist University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Riverside, California

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,997

California Baptist University offers public administration programs online that reflect the interdisciplinary nature of leading today’s public organizations. The CBU program includes areas of public policy, technology, leadership, and politics. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA, official transcripts, three recommendations, resume, and a 500-word essay. The 33-unit degree consists of courses such as conflict resolution and labor negotiations, history and theory of public administration, and statistical analysis for public administrators. The 100% online degree can be completed in 16 months and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

#35 – Arizona State University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Tempe, Arizona

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,938

Arizona State offers an online master’s in public administration for individuals seeking a career in the public sector. The ASU program can be completed in 19 months and includes three-day in-person sessions in Phoenix and Washington, D.C. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s or master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, a 3.0 GPA, and 5-7 years of professional experience. Students also need to submit a current resume and letters of recommendation. The degree consists of 30 credits with a total of 10 classes divided into 7.5-week terms. U.S News and World Report ranks Arizona State University #115 in national universities and #9 in graduate schools for public affairs.

#34 – University of North Carolina

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,929

University of North Carolina offers online public administration degrees with areas of specialization, all offered through the institution’s School of Government. The degree is accredited by the Network Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA, recommended score at or above the 50th percentile on the GRE, three letters of recommendation, purpose statement, and an oral interview. Courses include human resource management, law for public administration, public administration evaluation and analysis, and public financial management. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of North Carolina Chapel Hill #30 in national universities, #23 in public affairs, and #3 in local government management.

#33 – Brandman University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Irvine, California

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,880

Brandman University offers online MPA programs that prepare students for jobs in the nonprofit and public sectors. The curriculum is designed with job outcomes in mind, which means students receive an education that blends theory and praxis that focuses on the unique challenges and opportunities of leading public and nonprofit organizations and entities. Admission requirements include working at least halftime in a related field, a completed application, and meeting one of four GPA options. Courses include data analysis for decision-making, financial reporting and analysis, introduction to public administration, and labor relations and collective bargaining. The program can be completed entirely online.

#32 – Kent State University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Kent, Ohio

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,310

Kent State University offers a master’s in public administration online for working individuals seeking careers in the public sector at all levels including local, state, and federal. The degree program is also appropriate for those seeking a career in the nonprofit sector and certain areas of private industry. The program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration. The 36-credit program includes 12 three-credit courses including labor management relations in the public sector, methods in public administration, and public budgeting and financial management. Students without significant public sector experience may be required to participate in an internship. U.S. News ranks Kent State University #176 in national universities.

#31 – University of Illinois

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Springfield, Illinois

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,308

University of Illinois offers interested students the option of public administration programs online at the master’s level. The 36-credit degree can be completed entirely online with no residency or campus visit requirement. University of Illinois also offers a joint master’s program that includes a master’s in public administration and a master’s in public health–all available online. Admission requirements include proficiency in one spreadsheet application such as Excel, a minimum 2.5 undergraduate GPA or high GRE score, resume, three letters of recommendation, professional statement, writing sample, and experience working in public affairs field. Courses include issues in public administration, introduction to public service management, and leadership and management of public organizations.

#30 – Florida International University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Miami, Florida

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,097

Florida International University offers students a master’s degree in public administration. Place bound students seeking online public administration degrees may prefer the Florida International University program as it is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration on peer review and accreditation. Admission to the 42-credit program includes a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, three letters of recommendation, current resume, three-page essay, and GRE/GMAT or LSAT score if undergraduate GPA is less than 3.25 in the last 60 credits of coursework. Classes within the program include human resources management and policy, leadership and decision-making, and policy analysis and program planning. U.S. News ranks FIU #216 in national universities.

#29 – CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

Online Master’s in Public Administration

New York, New York

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,810

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College provides affordable online MPA programs that educate and train students for careers in the public and nonprofit sectors. The CUNY Bernard M Baruch program admits students with or without public sector experience. Students with a minimum of one year work experience are required to complete 42 credits, while students with less than one year experience must finish 42 credits and an additional 3-credit internship. Concentrations include health care policy, nonprofit administration, policy analysis and evaluation, public management, and urban development and sustainability. U.S. News and World Report ranks CUNY Bernard M Baruch College #20 in regional universities North.

#28 – Bellevue University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Bellevue, Nebraska

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,770

Bellevue University offers an online master’s in public administration for students seeking education and training as preparation for a career in the public sector. The accelerated online MPA program provides an in-depth look at economic, social, political, and cultural drivers that shape public organizations and how employees can best operate within these frameworks. Courses within the program include communication in the public sector, foundation in public administration, human resources and organizational effectiveness, and strategic planning and policy development. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a 2.5 GPA, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. U.S. News and World Report ranks Bellevue College #120 in best online graduate business programs.

#27 – Indiana University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Bloomington, Indiana

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,279

Indiana University offers public administration programs online for students seeking a master’s level degree in public administration. The 48-credit program can be completed entirely online and takes an interdisciplinary approach to teaching and training students. The Indiana MPA program is a conflation of two former programs–public administration and public policy, and has an emphasis on preparing individuals for careers in public affairs. Courses within the curriculum include law and public affairs, public finance and budgeting, public management, and public management economics. U.S. News and World Report ranks Indiana University #90 in national universities and #1 in public affairs.

#26 – Eastern Kentucky University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Richmond, Kentucky

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,270

While several institutions offer online public administration degrees, Eastern Kentucky University’s program provides students with the opportunity to choose a specialization that best suits their interests and career path. The concentrations include community development, emergency management, fire and emergency services, general public administration, homeland security, and occupational safety. Students are also able to create their own specialization, giving them innumerable options on an area of specialization. The programs is accredited by NASPAA and meets the standards set by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration. U.S. News and World Report ranks Eastern Kentucky University #73 in regional universities South.

#25 – Clemson University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Clemson, South Carolina

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,144

Clemson University offers public administration programs online that provide students with knowledge and skills that prepare them for a career in the public and nonprofit sectors. Unlike most online MPA degrees, the Clemson degree is delivered via synchronous online channels where students are able to sit in on a live class once per week from 6:30 – 9:10 PM. The delivery method provides students with a more traditional classroom experience with lectures and lively discourse between all parties. The program is geared towards working professionals with full-time jobs and various outside commitments. The average student is 33 years of age with six years of work experience. The program can be completed in approximately three years and offers an emergency management specialization. U.S. News ranks Clemson #67 in national universities.

#24 – Southern University and A & M College

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,980

Southern University and A&M College offers a master’s in public administration online for professionals seeking career advancement in the public sector. The program is designed for individuals with experience in the public sector looking for an advanced degree that may lead to professional growth opportunities. Admitted students should have a minimum of five years of middle to upper level management experience with at least three years in the public sector. Students should also have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.7 along with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. GRE scores in the 40th percentile and a resume are also required for admissions.

#23 – University of Missouri

Online Master’s in Public Affairs

Columbia, Missouri

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,828

University of Missouri offers an online master’s in public administration through its Harry S. Truman School of Public Affairs. The 33-credit program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration with institutional accreditation conferred by the Higher Learning Commission. Courses are nine weeks long with students typically finishing the program in two years with a one-course class load each nine-week term. The program’s curriculum was created specifically for professionals seeking career advancement in the public and nonprofit sectors at all levels including, local, state, regional, and federal. U.S. News ranks University of Missouri #120 in national universities.

#22 – University of North Dakota

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Grand Forks, North Dakota

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,189

Several institutions offer online MPA programs, but University of North Dakota is one of the only institutions to allow students to participate in live classes via its online platform. Classes meet one evening per week, allowing students to keep their personal and professional obligations while attending graduate school. The entire degree is completed online with no residency requirements and can be finished in approximately two years. Students can choose from a general MPA career or a healthcare concentration. All iterations of the degree prepare students for leadership positions at all levels of government, healthcare, and nonprofit sectors. U.S. News ranks UND #192 in national universities.

#21 – Texas A & M University

Online Master’s in Public Service and Administration

College Station, Texas

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,065

Texas A&M University has affordable online MPA programs for prospective students seeking career opportunities within the public sector. Students can choose from a variety of specialty tracks such as homeland security, nonprofit management, and public management. Offered through the Bush School of Government and Public Service, the degree consists of 39 credits and requires students to make two 1-week visits to the campus. The degree can be completed in 2-3 years depending on enrollment level and possible transfer credits. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree, resume, statement of purpose, GRE/GMAT scores, and official transcripts. U.S. News and World Report ranks Texas A&M University #69 in national universities.

#20 – University of West Florida

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Pensacola, Florida

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,062

University of West Florida offers public administration programs online for students seeking a master’s degree geared towards a career in public administration and service. Graduates may qualify for positions at all levels of government as well as the nonprofit sector. The West Florida program is similar to an online business degree with curriculum designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities found within governmental organizations and institutions. The program is well suited for mid-career professionals with managerial experience in the public sector seeking additional education and training for upward career advancement. Admission requirements include resume, GRE/GMAT/MAT scores, undergraduate GPA, letters of recommendation, and personal statement. U.S. News ranks UWF #231 in national universities.

#19 – Touro University Worldwide

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Los Alamitos, California

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,000

Touro University Worldwide offers public administration programs online for individuals seeking an advanced degree in public administration. The degree’s curriculum is designed to teach students skills and knowledge to help them navigate leadership and administrative positions in public organizations. Touro’s 12-class program can be completed in one year with full-time enrollment. Topics within the curriculum cover the spectrum of public administration, including governmental administration and management, human resource management, policy analysis, and nonprofit governance. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.5 GPA, or for a graduate student from another institution, a 2.75 minimum GPA.

#18 – Florida Gulf Coast University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Fort Myers, Florida

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,961

Florida Gulf Coast University offers public administration programs online for students seeking upward career trajectories in public organizations and nonprofit entities. The Florida Gulf Coast program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration. Students can choose from two concentration areas, including public leadership and management or environmental policy and planning. Courses include introduction to public administration, program planning and evaluation, and research methods and analysis. Total credits to earn the degree range from 36-39. U.S. News and World Report ranks Florida Gulf Coast University #73 in regional universities South and is recognized in the cohort of best graduate school rankings in public affairs.

#17 – San Diego State University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

San Diego, California

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,894

While many institutions offer online public administration degrees, San Diego State University’s master’s in public administration degree provides students with a unique online format where students complete coursework as part of a two-month module working as part of a small cohort. Once the module is complete, students are given a two-week break. The entire online program can be finished in 16 months and culminates with a capstone project presented to a panel of faculty as part of an on-campus experience. Coursework includes administrative theory, public financial management, public personnel administration, and quantitative approaches. Admission requirements include a 2.85-3.0 undergraduate GPA, 294 minimum GRE score, two letters of recommendation, resume, and statement of purpose. Individuals working full-time may request an internship waiver excusing them from this requirement. U.S. News ranks SDSU #140 in national universities.

#16 – University of Central Florida

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Orlando, Florida

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,872

University of Central Florida offers public administration programs online for individuals seeking an administrative or leadership level position within a public or nonprofit agency. UCF’s master’s degree in public administration consists of 42-credit hours broken down into nine core courses, four elective courses, and a 3-credit capstone course. The degree is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA). Graduates of the program may qualify for positions in all levels of government from local, regional, state, and federal. Additionally, students often take positions in the nonprofit sector as well. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Central Florida #171 in national universities and #44 in best graduate schools public policy.

#15 – University of South Dakota

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Vermillion, South Dakota

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,818

University of South Dakota offers a master’s in public administration online for seasoned public and nonprofit organizational professionals looking to leverage the knowledge and skill sets provided by a master’s degree. The program is ideally suited for individuals with five years of experience working in a public or nonprofit organization including at least three years of mid to upper level management. Admission requirements include an undergraduate degree with a 3.0 minimum GPA, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and five years of professional experience along with three years management experience as documented in a professional resume. Test scores are not required. U.S. News ranks USD #223 in national universities.

#14 – Liberty University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Lynchburg, Virginia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,723

Several postsecondary institutions offer online MPA programs, but Liberty University’s program is one of the few that offers the graduate degree designed specifically for leadership and administrative jobs within the criminal justice system. The program is ideally suited for individuals seeking career advancement in their current criminal justice position through the obtainment of a master’s degree. Featured classes include communication and conflict, fundamentals of public administration, and public policy analysis. The 36-credit degree is delivered fully online via 8-week classes. U.S. News and World Report ranks Liberty University #231 in national universities and #42 in online graduate criminal justice programs.

#13 – University of Oklahoma

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Norman, Oklahoma

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,577

The University of Oklahoma provides students with affordable online MPA programs designed to prepare graduates with a career in public service. Oklahoma is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Delivered through the institution’s Department of Political Science, the online MPA program is 36 credits and includes classes such as foundations of nonprofit management, problems in public management, public financial management, and public policy implementation. Students can choose from multiple concentrations, including nonprofit management, public policy, or a self-created individualized area of their choosing. U.S. News ranks University of Oklahoma #97 in national universities and #87 in graduate school public affairs.

#12 – Wilmington University

Online Master’s in Public Administration Management

New Castle, Delaware

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,438

Wilmington University offers an online master’s in public administration as part of its online master of science in management program. The fully online program offers several concentration areas including public administration, which prepares students for leadership positions within a variety of public sector occupations at various levels of government. To be considered for admission to the program, students must submit an undergraduate transcript and participate in a program-planning meeting with a director or department chairperson. The program’s pedagogical underpinnings include a blend of theory and skills required to adeptly lead today’s public organizations in the areas of human capital, finance, leadership, and public policy. Wilmington University is recognized in U.S. News and World Report’s ranking of best national universities.

#11 – Troy University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Troy, Alabama

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,362

Few affordable online MPA programs offer such a diverse public administration program as Troy University. The Troy program offers seven concentration areas for students to choose from, including government contracting, justice administration, national security affairs, nonprofit management, public health administration, public human resource management, and public management. The program is offered completely online and includes 12 courses that can be finished in as few as 15 months. Students with less than one year of professional experience working in public administration may be required to complete an internship or an extra course. U.S. News and World Report ranks Troy University #389 in regional universities South.

#10 – Texas State University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

San Marcos, Texas

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,229

Texas State University offers online public administration degrees for individuals seeking a blended educational experience leading to a master’s degree. Core and elective classes are typically taught online, and half of the degree can be completed via the internet. Concentration areas include environmental policy and management, nonprofit sector management, public finance, public management, and state and local government management. Admission policies require students to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with a minimum 3.0 GPA on the last 60 credits of coursework. Students must also submit official transcripts, personal statement, two reference letters, and test scores (GMAT/GRE/LAST). Students taking a full-time course load can complete the 39-credit degree in 18 months. U.S. News ranks TSU #231 in national universities.

#9 – Southern Utah University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Cedar City, Utah

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,220

Southern Utah University offers online MPA programs to students seeking leadership positions within public and nonprofit organizations. Students are able to design their own program depending on their own unique educational and career needs. The program can be completed partially or completely online. The 36-credit program provides an interdisciplinary approach by integrating history, political, social, economic, and cultural contexts to its curriculum, giving students a broad-based look at issues involving public and nonprofit organizations and how best to manage them. The program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA). U.S. News and World Report ranks Southern Utah University #76 in regional universities West and is recognized in the cohort of best public affairs graduate programs.

#8 – University of Colorado

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Denver, Colorado

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,839

University of Colorado offers online MPA programs with a variety of concentrations, such as nonprofit management and homeland defense. Students who can take elective courses on campus can choose from additional concentrations including environmental policy, domestic violence, local government, and emergency management. Students can also choose from a capstone project or a thesis option to finish out the degree. The 36-credit program consists of six core classes, five elective courses, and the final capstone/thesis. Classes include economics and public finance, ethics and leadership, introduction to public administration, and organizational management and behavior. The program is ranked #34 in public affairs and #29 in public management and leadership by U.S. News and World Report.

#7 – East Carolina University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Greenville, North Carolina

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,270

East Carolina University offers affordable online MPA programs for individuals seeking career advancement in government positions. Graduates may qualify for positions in local, state, and federal government as well as the nonprofit sector and publicly minded private businesses. The core curriculum focuses on administrative and leadership skills and knowledge needed to manage public entities. Students engage in a variety of applied research activities and take elective courses geared towards a career concentration. Core classes include analytics for the public sector, leadership and ethics in the public sector, management of public information technology, and quantitative methods for public administration. U.S. News ranks ECU #207 in national universities.

#6 – Georgia College & State University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Milledgeville, Georgia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,206

Georgia College offers a master’s in public administration online for students interested in a graduate level degree that teaches the skills and knowledge needed to manage public and nonprofit organizations. The program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration. Admission to the program requires students to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75. Students who have a GPA less than 3.0 should submit GRE scores and have a combined verbal and quantitative score of 294 GRE, 450 GMAT, or 395 MAT. Students with a GPA of 3.0 and above receive a test waiver. The 36-credit degree can be completed entirely online in four semesters of full-time enrollment. U.S. News and World Report ranks Georgia College & State University #31 in regional universities South.

#5 – University of Texas

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Edinburg, Texas

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,719

The University of Texas provides online MPA programs to working professionals seeking a master’s degree in public administration and management. The degree is well suited for those with public sector experience, but it is not a requirement for admission. Students are introduced to coursework that builds a strong foundation in public policy and leadership that translates across all levels of government, the nonprofit sector, and even private business. Classes teach public organizational functions and topics, including organizational leadership, finance, personnel management, and administrative law. Classes include formulation of public policy, management of governmental information systems, public budgeting and finance, and public policy scope and methods. U.S. News ranks UTRGV #231 in national universities.

#4 – Valdosta State University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Valdosta, Georgia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,628

Valdosta State University has affordable online MPA programs designed for individuals who seek careers in public service. The 36-credit program includes 24 units of core classes and 12 units in a concentration area. Concentration areas include public sector management, public sector human resource management, and public policy. Classes include governmental budgeting and finance, organizational theory and behavior, human resource management, and performance analysis. In addition to university admission requirements, students must submit a GMAT score of 450 or a combined GRE score of 285 or 146 on the verbal and 3.5 on the analytical writing. Students must also submit a resume, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. U.S. News and World Report ranks Valdosta State University #231 in national universities.

#3 – University of Nebraska

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Omaha, Nebraska

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,458

The University of Nebraska confers an online master’s in public administration that trains students to have the knowledge and skills needed to effectively lead and manage public sector organizations and entities. The broad-based curriculum focuses on finance, human capital management, communications, ethics, leadership, and law – all within the context of government and nonprofit organizations. The program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration, which requires institutions and departments to pass a rigorous evaluation. Students matriculating in the fall semester can complete the degree in two years plus one course at an enrollment level of just two classes per term. U.S. News ranks University of Nebraska #231 in national universities.

#2 – Arkansas State University

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Jonesboro, Arkansas

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,121

Arkansas State University confers a master’s in public administration online consisting of 36 credits that can be completed in as little as 18 months from the time of matriculation. Students will develop the necessary theoretical framework to adeptly manage all aspects of a public organization. Students with no experience in the public sector are provided internship opportunities to build upon their classroom experiences. Admission requirements may differentiate between conditional and unconditional acceptance. Students with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above, three reference letters, and a personal statement may receive unconditional acceptance provided they have taken introductory U.S Government and Economics courses. U.S. News ranks Arkansas State #68 in regional universities South.

#1 – University of West Georgia

Online Master’s in Public Administration

Carrolton, Georgia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,048

The University of West Georgia offers a master’s in public administration online consisting of 36 credits that require no on-campus visitations or residencies. A total of six credits can be transferred in towards the degree. The UWG program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration. UWG is accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Classes include administrative law and procedures, public budgeting and financial management, public policy analysis and program evaluation, and research methods for public administration. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of West Georgia #231 among national universities.

BCO Staff
May 2018

This concludes our list of the top 50 most affordable master’s in public administration online (MPA) degrees.

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