the mpa degree is a professional degree designed to prepare both pre- and mid-career professionals and administrators for supervisory, analytical support and policy-making positions in public sector agencies, and non-profit organizations, at local, state and federal levels. the program stresses sound preparation in a wide range of administrative competencies. mpa coursework includes studies in public administration theory, human resource management, public budgeting, leadership, ethics, organization dynamics, and research methods for public administrators. available courses support specialization in local government, non-profit management, administration of native american affairs, education leadership, planning and other subspecialties. for early career students, practical experience is gained through a supervised internship with an agency of the student's choosing.

upon graduation, mpa students are expected to have built their capacities in the following areas: