The Master of Public Affairs (MPA)

Letter from the Director

Thanks for checking out our graduate programs at UNCG. Our faculty, students, and alumni connections create great learning opportunities in public service. A unique feature of our program is the mix of three-credit and one-credit courses that develop both a broader knowledge base and specific professional skills. Our 15 credit hour Nonprofit Management Certificate and an 18 credit hour Urban and Economic Development Certification are available in addition to the 43-credit MPA program..

The MPA Program is designed to give students a strong background in public administration, public policy and leadership studies to prepare them for work in government and nonprofit organizations. The following program elements are often cited by our graduates as key benefits:

• community-engaged research projects for area agencies
• paid internships that enhance the performance of local government and nonprofit organizations
• small classes held in the evening and on Saturday
• emphasis on teamwork and collaborative learning
• job preparation and career advising
• a strong and supportive network of MPA alumni

The MPA faculty and staff are dedicated to helping MPA students with their educational and career endeavors. Our degree completion rate is high, approximately 85% over the past four years.  By admitting smaller numbers of students (usually 25-28 students per year), our program can provide meaningful graduate assistantships, paid internships, and personal coaching. By assisting students in finding appropriate job placements, over 90% of our 2016 and 2017 graduates have found full-time public service positions within 6 months of graduation. I welcome the opportunity to meet with anyone interested in pursuing a career in public service. 

– Hunter Bacot