Master of Public Administration Degree

MPA Program Overview

Master of Public Administration

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The division between the public and private sectors is blurred. Laws, regulations, tax policies, contracts, grants and loans require an interaction between the two so that even in the private sector, an understanding of public administration and government is accessible to all. Those with a Master of Public Administration degree are equipped with the skills and tools to think critically and communicate effectively to fill this important role in society.  

The master’s degree in public administration program at Cleveland State has built its mission on a commitment to nationally recognized excellence in public administration education and research. Through its activities, the MPA program supports the educational, research and public service missions of the Levin School and Cleveland State University.
 

Why choose cleveland state's mpa degree?

  • Flexible scheduling: The program’s curriculum accommodates part-time, mid-career students, as well as full-time students. Courses occur primarily during the evenings, with a few on weekends, and students can apply for Fall, Spring or Summer semesters.
  • Comprehensive coursework: Public administration is a unifying field of study that effectively merges the specialties of others, all while having its own unique set of competencies and areas of expertise. The program draws on a wide variety of academic disciplines, such as political science, economics, business administration and law.
  • Preparation for leadership: The MPA program prepares graduates to lead in diverse and dynamic urban environments. By applying engaged and interactive learning, faculty and students work together to discover, generate, share and extend intellectual resources for the benefit of the community.
  • Legacy of excellence: U.S. News & World Report consistently recognizes the Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University as one of the best public affairs colleges in the nation.
  • Accreditation: The Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs Master of Public Administration is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA).

curriculum

Coursework provides a foundation in public service, administration and management with specialized skills grounded in one of the program's areas of expertise. The MPA core curriculum covers the following areas:

  • Political and legal institutions and processes
  • Economic and social systems
  • Organizational and managerial skills and practices
  • Concepts and techniques of financial administration
  • Techniques of analysis, including quantitative, economic and statistical methods and computer systems
  • Human resources management in the public sector

These core elements constitute the building blocks for a diverse field of study. The choices range from city management and international affairs to personnel administration and strategic planning.

Our Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at the Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University is committed to the development of leadership in the search for solutions to urban problems and an enhanced understanding of public policy and public affairs in a global and diverse society.

To advance intellectual and administrative leadership in public administration, the MPA program:

  • Prepares a diverse student body to assume the challenges of public service by providing them with a foundation in general public administration and specialized skills grounded in one of the program's areas of expertise;
  • Discovers, constructs, interprets and disseminates knowledge and understanding about the practice of public affairs and
  • Serves the region, including the professional community, by extending intellectual resources and applying knowledge.

what is a master of public administration degree?

A Master of Public Administration degree is a professional educational program designed to train individuals for government service and related fields.

Cleveland State University’s MPA program core curriculum is designed to teach the skills required for effective public management planning, decision-making, nonprofit management and other related policies.

Graduates of public affairs programs have a wide range of skills. Although prepared for many different jobs, they all have something in common: they understand the challenge, anticipate the excitement and accept the responsibility that comes with managing in the public sector.
 

career opportunities

The MPA program prepares students for leadership and management in government, nonprofit and public service organizations such as:

  • Federal, state, county and local governments
  • Regional authorities and special districts
  • Nonprofit and volunteer organizations
  • Economic and community development
  • Health and human service organizations
  • Criminal justice agencies

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects careers in social and community service to grow by 10 percent between 2021 and 2031, much faster than the national average of 5 percent for all occupations. With the increasing demand for professionals who can navigate the constantly changing world of policy, social service and community development, a Master of Public Administration degree is a valuable asset to bring to a job.
 

admissions requirements

Ready to enroll in a program where your determination for communication and problem-solving can shine? Get started on the next steps by learning more about CSU admission requirements.

GRE and Test Scores

Currently, Cleveland State waives the application fee and GRE test score requirement, simplifying your application process.

GRE Waiver Information

Questions? Please email us at urbanprograms@csuohio.edu.
 

LEARN MORE ABOUT CLEVELAND STATE'S MPA DEGREE PROGRAM

Our nationally recognized Master of Public Administration program advances your intellectual and administrative leadership skills so that you can thrive in your career. With opportunities for hands-on engagement, funding options and faculty support, our program enables you to take your profession to the next level.

Learn more about the master’s in public administration by requesting information or contacting a program staff member directly.
 

Contact US

MPA Program Director: Dr. Clayton Wukich
Email: r.wukich@csuohio.edu

Dave Arrighi, Graduate Programs Coordinator
Public Affairs Student Services Center
Telephone: 216-523-7522 / E-mail: urbanprograms@csuohio.edu