Master of Public Administration

Required Courses: 30 Credits

• MPA-501E Organizational Dynamics and Management (3)
  Introduces the essential theories, concepts, and skills required for professionals in public administration. Students will be presented with the theories and practices of managing public and nonprofit organizations. This course covers core theories of organizational structure, leadership styles, motivation, decision-making, and conflict resolution in public service contexts. Students will learn to navigate organizational change, foster a productive work environment, and enhance performance in public administration roles.

• MPA-502E Leadership for Social Transformation (3) 
  Provides an overview of key philosophies and theories of ethical leadership for public administrators serving diverse constituencies. By analyzing various ethical frameworks and decision-making models, students will learn about the complex moral and ethical dilemmas faced by public administrators. Students will develop inclusive leadership skills that include cultural competence, social equity, and effective cross-cultural communication. Students will learn to champion diversity, promote justice, and uphold the public trust while navigating varied stakeholder interests.
• MPA-503E Research Methods & Analysis (3)
  This course provides essential tools for evidence-based decision-making in public administration. Students will be introduced to common methods of research, formulation of hypotheses, developing analytical models, and analysis. In addition to traditional analytical tools, this course also integrates the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools for data gathering and analysis. Students will learn to responsibly and objectively consume and produce research to improve organizational performance and delivery of public services.
• MPA-504E Budgeting, Economics, and Public Finance (3)
  Provides the foundations of fiscal management in government and nonprofit sectors. This course does not require prior specialized knowledge. Students will explore fundamental economic principles relevant to public policy, including market dynamics, resource allocation, and rationale for government intervention. The course delves into public finance issues such as taxation, public debt, and intergovernmental fiscal relations. Students will learn to interpret financial statements, evaluate program costs, and make informed fiscal decisions to ensure accountability and sustainability in public service.
• MPA-505E Data & Evidence-Based Decision-Making (3)
  Builds upon the foundations established in Research Methods and Analysis. This course bridges research theory and practical applications in public administration. Students will utilize quantitative and qualitative methods to address real-world public sector challenges. Emphasis is placed on identifying and accessing relevant public and proprietary databases, teaching formal processes for data cleaning, analysis, interpretation, and visualization. Students will learn to translate data insights into actionable policy recommendations and effective managerial decisions, honing their ability to drive organizational assessment, and performance.
• MPA-506E Policy Analysis and Program Evaluation (3)
  Examines the policy-making process and program evaluation methodologies essential for effective public administration. Students learn to analyze policy alternatives, assess program effectiveness, and make evidence-based recommendations for improving public services.
• MPA-507E Social Transformation Internship (3 credits)
  The Internship in Public Administration is a credit-bearing course that bridges academic theory with professional practice within a government, nonprofit, or relevant private sector organization. Students complete a minimum of 12 hours per week at their sponsoring agency, gaining practical experience in public service management. This hands-on experience is documented through weekly short papers where students chronicle their work activities, reflect on learning outcomes, and assess their contributions to the organization and its clientele.
• MPA-601E Conflict Resolution and Negotiations (3 credits)
  Presents the essential skills to manage conflict and negotiate effectively within diverse organizational and public settings. The first half of the semester introduces foundational theories and principles of conflict dynamics, analysis, and various resolution techniques, emphasizing mediation and consensus-building in the public interest. The second half focuses on negotiation theory, strategies, and practical application. Students learn to navigate disputes, foster collaboration, and achieve sustainable outcomes for the public good.
• MPA-602E MPA Nonprofit Management (3 credits)
  Provides comprehensive training in managing nonprofit organizations, including governance, fundraising, volunteer management, and strategic planning. Students learn the unique challenges and opportunities of nonprofit leadership in the context of community service and social change.
• MPA-603E Social Transformation Capstone Project (3 credits)
  The Capstone Project in Public Administration is the culminating experience of the MPA program, requiring students to synthesize and apply knowledge gained throughout the curriculum to a real-world administrative challenge. This research project involves a case study of a government, nonprofit, or private sector entity, with a focus on analyzing the intersectionality of these sectors. Students are expected to identify weaknesses or deficiencies in current processes or outcomes, analyze, and propose evidence-based, actionable solutions. Students will demonstrate mastery of public administration competencies through this independent project.

Elective Seminars: 6 Credits

Total: 36 Credits