Online MPA Programs
Public administration focuses on the management and operations of public institutions, including government agencies, nonprofits, and healthcare organizations. An online master's in public administration gives students the skills and knowledge to pursue advanced management careers in this field.
All master's in public administration programs require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college. Most do not call for a specific academic background. Once enrolled, learners study topics like public policy, organizational management, and public finance.
Our guide to online master's in public administration degrees includes information on tuition rates, typical classes, and professional specialization options.
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Questions About Public Administration Degrees
How long does it take to get a public administration degree?
Degree-completion times vary among schools and programs. However, full-time learners can typically complete master's degrees in two years.
What is a public administration salary?
Public administration salaries vary widely by industry. For example, social and community services managers earn a median $74,000 annually. Public relations and fundraising managers earn $119,860.
How much does a master's degree increase your salary?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports bachelor's degree-holders earn a median weekly salary of $1,305, while master's degree-holders earn $1,545.
Featured Online Public Administration Programs
Why Get a Master's Degree in Public Administration?
An online master's in public administration builds advanced knowledge in administrative and management practices. The degree applies to a variety of fields, including government services, healthcare, and nonprofit management. Earning a master's degree can help candidates increase their career options and salary potential.
Public administration graduates can move into many different management roles that feature above-average salaries. For example, administrative services managers at government agencies earn a median $99,290 annually.
Many colleges let students earn their master's in public administration online. These programs cater to working professionals, using flexible formats that make it easier to balance work and school obligations.
The Best Online Master's in Public Administration Programs
#1 Best Online Master’s in Public Administration Programs
Northwestern University
- Evanston, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Evanston, Illinois, Northwestern University enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online public administration program. The master's in public policy and administration program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to public administration. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with a background in public administration typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Northwestern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, not-for-profit, four-year
Admission Rate: 9%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Master's in public policy and administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $56,067
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $56,067
Percent Online Enrollment
2%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Online Master’s in Public Administration Programs
University of Southern California
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Los Angeles, the University of Southern California hosts a top-rated online master of public administration program. The master's program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, candidates often advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on public administration. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants without a background in public administration may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
University of Southern California at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, not-for-profit, four-year
Admission Rate: 11%
Total Online Master's Programs: 55
Program Name: Master of public administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $46,272
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $46,272
Percent Online Enrollment
17%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#3 Best Online Master’s in Public Administration Programs
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Chapel Hill, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online MPA program, offered by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, ranks as a top public administration program. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the MPA program. With a master's degree, candidates often advance their current career or more into new career paths.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on public administration. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program recommends a background in public administration for those applying to the program.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 23%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Online MPA
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,552
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,278
Percent Online Enrollment
12%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Master’s in Public Administration Programs
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online public administration degree can enroll in the master's program at the University of Central Florida, located in Orlando. The master of public administration program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the public administration field and related industries. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends a background in public administration or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 44%
Total Online Master's Programs: 26
Program Name: Online master of public administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,916
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,759
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online Master’s in Public Administration Programs
Texas A&M University
- College Station, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Texas A&M University, located in College Station, offers a flexible online master's in public administration. The online executive master of public service and administration program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in public administration. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in public administration or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Texas A&M University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 38
Program Name: Online executive master of public service and administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,677
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,700
Percent Online Enrollment
14%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Online Master’s in Public Administration Programs
University of Miami
- Coral Gables, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Coral Gables, Florida, the University of Miami enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online public administration program. The master of public administration program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the public administration field. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants without a degree in public administration or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
University of Miami at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, not-for-profit, four-year
Admission Rate: 27%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master of Public Administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $37,800
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $37,800
Percent Online Enrollment
22%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Online Master’s in Public Administration Programs
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida International University, located in Miami, enrolls master's students in its online public administration program. The online master of public administration program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. After earning a master's degree, candidates can also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in public administration or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 31
Program Name: Online master of public administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,912
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,393
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Online Master’s in Public Administration Programs
San Diego State University
- San Diego, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in California, San Diego State University offers an online master of public administration. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the public administration program. After earning a master's degree, candidates may also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to public administration. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends a background in public administration or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
San Diego State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 34%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of public administration online
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,176
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,680
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#9 Best Online Master’s in Public Administration Programs
University of the Southwest
- Hobbs, NM
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The MBA in public administration from the University of the Southwest, located in Hobbs, uses a flexible distance learning format. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the public administration program. With a master's degree, candidates can pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in public administration before applying.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. The MBA program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
University of the Southwest at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, not-for-profit, four-year
Admission Rate: 45%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: MBA in public administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $22,500
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,500
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Best Online Master’s in Public Administration Programs
Villanova University
- Villanova, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Pennsylvania, Villanova University enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online public administration program. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master of public administration program. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to public administration. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in public administration before applying.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Villanova University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, not-for-profit, four-year
Admission Rate: 28%
Total Online Master's Programs: 17
Program Name: Master of public administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $20,506
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $20,506
Percent Online Enrollment
23%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
How Much Does a Master's in Public Administration Cost?
Master's degrees cost an average of $66,340, according to EducationData.org. However, tuition rates for online master's in public administration programs vary by factors like enrollment format, program length, and school type. Public colleges generally charge lower tuition than private colleges. Accelerated programs may cost less overall since they require fewer semesters to complete.
Learners who enroll in online master's in public administration programs do not pay for campus housing or meal plans. An online format also lets them choose the most affordable program in any location.
Additional Online Student Fees
Online learners should budget for additional fees that cover technology costs, tech support, and other online resources. They may also need to pay for standard education expenses, like books, class supplies, and graduation fees.
Some master's in public administration online programs use a hybrid format that combines campus and online classes. In these programs, students typically cover transportation and lodging costs. Graduates may need to pay fees to obtain professional licenses or certifications.
How Much Do Public Administration Majors Make?
Earning a public administration master's degree online prepares graduates for many careers with high salary potential. Many graduates pursue administrative and management positions in government agencies and nonprofits. Some public administration graduates work as urban and regional planners. These professionals earn a median $78,500 annually.
While some careers in public administration only require a bachelor's degree, earning a master's can help candidates pursue higher-paying careers. Public administrators can also increase their career options and salary potential by earning specialized professional certifications.
Courses in Public Administration
An online master's in public administration program builds specialized knowledge in the operation and management of public institutions and organizations. Degree-seekers study topics like organizational behavior, public policy, and finance. Many programs emphasize the role of research in shaping public policy and administration.
The following list features three classes commonly found in public administration programs. Keep in mind that not every school offers every class listed here. Specific content and class titles vary among programs. However, this list offers a general idea of what to expect when pursuing a public administration master's degree online.
Fundamentals of Public Administration
Most programs include a class that introduces the fundamental practices and theories of public administration. Students receive a broad overview of the field, including its relationship to legal and political structures. This class may also introduce major conceptual frameworks for understanding public institutes and their relationships to communities and individuals.Organizational Theory and Behavior
Public administration centers on the operation of large, complex institutions. This class examines the organizational dynamics at play in various forms of bureaucracy. Students explore topics like organizational behavior styles, managerial processes, and organizational contexts. The class may also highlight the factors that affect interpersonal and group behavior.Public Financial Management
This class focuses on the role of finance and budgeting in public organizations. Students explore financial practices in government agencies and nonprofits, including how budgets determine organizational priorities and affect public policy. Other common class topics may include tax administration, cost-benefit analysis, and debt financing.
Specializations for Public Administration
Public administration intersects with many types of public organizations. Accordingly, programs commonly offer specializations that build advanced knowledge in specific areas of public administration. Also known as concentrations or tracks, specializations help students customize their education to fit their professional interests and career goals.
Programs with specialization options usually offer a core curriculum along with a selection of specialization classes. If programs do not offer specific concentrations, students can often choose elective classes that relate to their field of interest.
This list highlights three specialization options commonly found in online master's in public administration programs.
Nonprofit Management
This concentration focuses on public administration concepts in relation to nonprofit work. Students may explore the history and development of the nonprofit sector and its economic, social, and legislative impact. Other common course topics may include philanthropy, fundraising, and the effects of public policy on nonprofit organizations.Public Policy
Candidates specializing in public policy focus on the role of policy and legislation in shaping public life and institutions. This concentration explores the major factors that affect policy formulation and decision-making. Classes may focus on topics like the legislative process, administrative law, and environmental and climate policy.Global Health
Public administration plays a major role in healthcare access across the world. This specialization highlights the application of public policy to global healthcare systems, working toward more equitable outcomes for global populations. Common classes may include global health initiatives, demography and global health, and grant writing and fundraising.
How to Become an Administrative Manager
Most careers in public administration and administrative management require at least a bachelor's degree. More advanced positions may require a master's degree, particularly for jobs with significant management responsibilities.
Professionals in this field typically hold degrees in business or public administration. At the master's level, candidates often perform specialized internships or practicum experiences that build hands-on skills.
Typical duties for administrative managers vary among industries. In general, these professionals oversee operations for organizations of all types. Their common daily responsibilities may include supervising other staff members and assessing organizational policies and procedures. They may also set departmental goals and deadlines.
Featured image credit: Sam Edwards, Getty Images
Featured Public Administration Programs
