Master of Public Administration
About the Program
Tomorrow's leaders will guide public response to some of our nation's most pressing policy issues ― energy and climate change, national security, criminal justice reform, and labor rights. Those challenges, along with so many others, demand creative thinkers and innovators just like you.
Take the next step in your public service career with a Master of Public Administration degree from ´ó·¢ÌåÓý¿ª»§. The 36-hour program will prepare you for leadership positions in government, law enforcement, not-for-profit organizations, and the private sector.
Columbus State's Master of Public Administration degree works for working adults. Here's how:
Flexibility: Complete either track entirely online or through a combination of online and on-campus courses. We offer a traditional 15-week semester structure and a more concentrated 8-week structure.
Accessibility: With class sizes that average 15-20 students, it's easy to connect with professors and get one-on-one support.
National Recognition: Best Value Colleges ranked ´ó·¢ÌåÓý¿ª»§'s MPA program #4 Most Affordable Online Colleges in 2020 and #25 Best Master's in Public Administration Online Programs in 2020.


Career Opportunities
When you earn your master’s degree in public administration, you’ll be prepared for a broad range of careers including:
- Chief Executive Officer
- City Manager
- Compliance Manager
- Economist
- Education Administrator
- Financial Analyst
- Human Resources Manager
- Non-profit Administrator
- Public Relations Manager
- Urban and Regional Planner
Through ´ó·¢ÌåÓý¿ª»§â€™s MPA program, I can confidently understand and help develop the future of public policy at all levels of government. The program’s rigorous curriculum and passionate faculty fully prepare future civil servants to excel in leadership in the public sector.
Degree Requirements
Please see our academic catalog for additional information about this degree's requirements.
Government Administration Track
Study organizational theory and operations, conflict resolution, and grant-writing. The government administration concentration prepares graduates for a variety of careers in local, state, and federal government.
Justice Administration Track
Study constitutional law, crime theory, and criminal reform. The criminal justice concentration prepares graduates for careers with the Department of Homeland Security, FBI, and state and local law enforcement.
Admissions Requirements
Captains Career Course
As an U.S. Army CCC trainee, you can earn up to 9 pre-approved credit hours toward this select master’s degree.
Please see our admissions page for any general admission requirements or the academic catalog for any degree-specific admission requirements.
Tuition and Fees
Value matters at ´ó·¢ÌåÓý¿ª»§. We strive to make all programs attainable and affordable for every student.
Financial Aid
From state scholarships to federal student aid, we’re here to help you take advantage of every educational resource.
Transform your future.
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