Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.)

This is an archived copy of the 2020-2021 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.shsu.edu.

The Master of Public Administration program is an online degree program designed to empower those seeking a career in public service as well as those already employed who desire to enhance their current career trajectory. The program prepares professionals for work in government at the local, state, or national level as well as nonprofit organizations. Those in the private sector may also find the curriculum valuable.

The MPA degree requires a total of 36 hours of coursework:

  • 24 hours of core coursework taken by all students
  • 12 hours of coursework in a concentration selected by the student in consultation with a graduate advisor

Prior to graduation, all students must complete and pass comprehensive exams, which encompass key learning objectives from the core coursework. Students are expected to complete all their core coursework prior to taking comprehensive exams. Students with one core course remaining may take comprehensive exams, with the approval of the graduate director. Comprehensive exams are administered during the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Students must be enrolled in the university the semester or summer session in which the comprehensive exams are administered.