{"id":395,"date":"2024-11-12T16:51:10","date_gmt":"2024-11-12T21:51:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.golive.clarku.edu\/programs\/public-administration-mpa\/"},"modified":"2026-01-26T16:19:59","modified_gmt":"2026-01-26T21:19:59","slug":"public-administration-mpa","status":"publish","type":"clarku_program","link":"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/masters\/public-administration-mpa\/","title":{"rendered":"Public Administration, MPA"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile is-image-fill-element hero-program has-background\" style=\"background-color:#2c5234;padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0;grid-template-columns:auto 60%\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p class=\"intro has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-c0da914e8d0d4a13c56a8f87b526baa9\" style=\"padding-top:0;padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-bottom:0;padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);font-size:1.4rem;font-style:normal;font-weight:300\"><em>Increase your impact as a change agent<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-intro has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-feb506124c8cb6eb8936c71ee5a8c0be\" style=\"padding-top:0;padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-bottom:0;padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);font-size:1.25rem;font-style:normal;font-weight:300\">Whether your goal is to bring positive change to your local community or to advance a cause you feel passionate about, our Master of Public Administration (MPA) program equips you with the leadership and analytical skills you need to realize your vision. Join us to boost your influence and effectiveness in driving meaningful change in the public sector and nonprofit arenas.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"taxonomy-degree_type wp-block-post-terms\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/?degree_type=masters\" rel=\"tag\">Master&#8217;s<\/a><\/div><\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"880\" height=\"550\" src=\"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/Graduate-Program-SPS-MPA-Banner-880x550-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2501 size-full\" style=\"object-position:50% 50%\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/Graduate-Program-SPS-MPA-Banner-880x550-2.jpg 880w, https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/Graduate-Program-SPS-MPA-Banner-880x550-2-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/Graduate-Program-SPS-MPA-Banner-880x550-2-768x480.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 880px) 100vw, 880px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-top sidebar-right is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-earn-an-in-demand-credential\">Earn an in-demand credential<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The majority of leadership positions in government and nonprofit organizations today are advertised as \u201cmaster\u2019s preferred.\u201d At the same time, an uptick in retirements in the public servant ranks since the pandemic has created opportunities at all levels and across all sectors. With the Clark MPA as a credential, you are well prepared to bring foundational skills, experiential learning, and fresh insights to local, national, and global organizations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-combine-academics-with-real-world-application\">Combine academics with real-world application<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Clark MPA provides you with solid classroom training in research methods, public management, public affairs, policy advocacy, and nonprofit leadership. And your Capstone project allows you to demonstrate your knowledge and professional competencies as you apply them to challenges faced by a \u201creal-world\u201d organization.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-container-core-column-is-layout-c53c594d wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-left-color:var(--wp--preset--color--warm-gray);border-left-width:0.17rem;padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);flex-basis:33.33%\"><div style=\"color:inherit\" class=\"eyebrow  has-text-align-left\">Explore public administration<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"arrow has-deep-red-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-661245d01e06fba7c35bc8033829e61b\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/schools\/professional-studies\/\">School of Professional Studies<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"arrow has-deep-red-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-5aad40f560228fc15ca40159b912d2f2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/schools\/professional-studies\/our-faculty\/\">Faculty<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"arrow has-deep-red-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-0fe4a77459d1ee7227fb55cdf73255eb\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/graduate-education\/graduate-admissions\/tuition-and-scholarships\/?program=public-administration-mpa\">Tuition and Scholarships<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"arrow has-deep-red-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-76b2f5b904cdc72f622a85093e220d2d\"><a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.clarku.edu\/preview_program.php?catoid=35&amp;poid=7183&amp;returnto=2879\">All Public Administration Courses<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-small-font-size\" id=\"h-request-information\">Request information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div id=\"form_8dd5ca66-da71-44c5-a7df-e6a1ab883f88\">Loading...<\/div><script async=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gradapply.clarku.edu\/register\/?id=8dd5ca66-da71-44c5-a7df-e6a1ab883f88&output=embed&div=form_8dd5ca66-da71-44c5-a7df-e6a1ab883f88\">\/**\/<\/script>\n\n\n<style>\r\n\t.form_h1,\r\n\t.form_h2 {\r\n\t\tdisplay: none;\r\n\t}\t\t\r\n<\/style>\r\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:40%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1507\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/public-management.jpg\" alt=\"Infrastructure asset manager maintaining public facilities, efficient infrastructure management\" class=\"wp-image-2503\" style=\"aspect-ratio:3\/4;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/public-management.jpg 1507w, https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/public-management-300x119.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/public-management-1024x408.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/public-management-768x306.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1507px) 100vw, 1507px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-a-lifetime-credential-that-sets-you-apart\">A lifetime credential that sets you apart<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-checkmark-list has-small-font-size\">\n<li>Receive your degree from a globally recognized and accredited university. The Clark MPA is aligned with the standards of the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPPA)&nbsp; the global standard in public service education. &nbsp;&nbsp;Our program is also built upon the principles of the American Society Public Adminstration (ASPA) Code of Ethics.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Build key competencies in leadership, policy development and analysis, nonprofit management, educational leadership, crisis communication, and research and data analytical skills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Experiential learning opportunities such as internships and service-learning projects in the MPA program allow students to apply classroom theory to real-world public and nonprofit challenges. These experiences build practical skills, expand professional networks, and enhance career readiness by bridging the gap between academic study and leadership practice.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Learn in a highly collaborative academic environment with talented peers from all over the world and scholar-practitioners who share their deep leadership experience with you<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:80px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull related-links has-gray-100-background-color has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio lifted\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"A Master&#039;s Degree is a Marathon, Not a Sprint, for Chris Rutigliano\" src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/279533878?dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-a-master-s-degree-is-a-marathon-not-a-sprint\">A Master\u2019s Degree is a Marathon, Not a Sprint<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Chris Rutigliano, MSC \u201918, a City of Worcester employee, said he would never go back to school, but as a Master of Public Administration student at Clark University he has proven himself wrong. He enjoys working with his classmates and has realized that it is easy for him to engage and do the work \u2014 one class at a time.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><div style=\"color:var(--clarku-color-deeper-red)\" class=\"eyebrow  has-text-align-left\">Student spotlight<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8220;<em><em><em>One of the neat things about going to Clark is, it is a diverse group of people and it was great working with people from different cultures. Because I enjoyed these classes so much, it made it a lot easier for me to get engaged and to do work.<\/em><\/em><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-right\"><strong>\u2014Chris Rutigliano, MSC \u201918<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns stagger-left no-gap abut-end is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover abut-end has-true-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-bf563726dc3b9ac618778c10bb7f9edf\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);min-height:40rem;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-gray-100-background-color has-background-dim-100 has-background-dim\"><\/span><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-cover-is-layout-d2702112 wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\"><div style=\"color:inherit\" class=\"eyebrow  has-text-align-left\">curriculum<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-charcoal-color has-text-color has-link-color has-small-font-size wp-elements-4bfc1f20ce54e1296dc84a2cd5672ce6\">Clark\u2019s Master of Public Administration equips students with a solid academic foundation and training in research methods, public management, public affairs, nonprofit leadership, program development and evaluation, and public budgeting .<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-charcoal-color has-text-color has-link-color has-small-font-size wp-elements-b7303aa5ef396293b44501a139d88c2e\">Start terms for the MPA program are Fall, Spring, and Summer. Each course is taught by a leading expert in their field.<\/p>\n\n\n<div style=\"color:inherit\" class=\"eyebrow  has-text-align-left\">requirements<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">10 course units<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">7 core courses, including a Capstone project<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-small-font-size\">3 electives<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"arrow\"><a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.clarku.edu\/preview_program.php?catoid=35&amp;poid=7183&amp;returnto=2879#requirements\"><strong>View Requirements<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover abut-end has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-339c5d077ae4a10fa307749f05592ea7\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);min-height:27.97rem;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-gray-600-background-color has-background-dim-100 has-background-dim\"><\/span><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-cover-is-layout-d2702112 wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\"><div style=\"color:var(--clarku-color-white)\" class=\"eyebrow has-drop-shadow has-text-align-left\">Career communities<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-drop-shadow has-heading-font-family has-medium-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:300\">The job market for skilled public administrators and civil servants in the United States is expanding, creating many opportunities for a new generation of skilled professionals. Through Clark\u2019s MPA program, you learn strategies to address the complex issues in public administration or non profit management , and successfully implementing solutions at your current job, as an intern, or as a student-consultant for a company.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover abut-end has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-80d9aa638ca95186b43f99fc8b147d73\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);min-height:40rem;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-deeper-red-background-color has-background-dim-100 has-background-dim\"><\/span><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-cover-is-layout-d2702112 wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\"><div style=\"color:var(--clarku-color-white)\" class=\"eyebrow has-drop-shadow has-text-align-left\">In the news<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-drop-shadow is-style-intro\">&#8216;Pride in my community&#8217;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/senior-center-volunteering.jpg\" alt=\"Student volunteers at Worcester senior center\" class=\"wp-image-8730\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/senior-center-volunteering.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/senior-center-volunteering-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/senior-center-volunteering-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Clarkies learn about nonprofit management by volunteering in Worcester<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"arrow-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/news\/2025\/09\/08\/pride-in-my-community\/\">Read the story<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover abut-end has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color has-medium-font-size wp-elements-1eff846d349ed705ed0b41712b5bcddf\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);min-height:32rem;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-blue-background-color has-background-dim-100 has-background-dim\"><\/span><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-cover-is-layout-3f8c44ea wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\"><div style=\"color:inherit\" class=\"eyebrow has-drop-shadow has-text-align-left\">sample courses<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-drop-shadow\">Leadership<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-drop-shadow\">Policy Analysis<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-drop-shadow\">Program Development and Evaluation<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-drop-shadow\">Crisis Management<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-drop-shadow\">Arbitration, Collective Bargaining and Labor Relations<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"arrow\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.clarku.edu\/preview_program.php?catoid=35&amp;poid=7183&amp;returnto=2879\">View All Courses<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover abut-end has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color has-medium-font-size wp-elements-536e7fd11dab73cd5aea4d435b85aa2a\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);min-height:28rem;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-light-blue-background-color has-background-dim-100 has-background-dim\"><\/span><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-cover-is-layout-3f8c44ea wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\"><div style=\"color:inherit\" class=\"eyebrow  has-text-align-left\">careers<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Disaster Risk Management<\/strong><br><em>World Bank<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Director of Public Works<br><\/strong><em>Town of Hopkinton, MA<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Executive Director<br><\/strong><em>Worcester Community Action Council<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Program Manager<br><\/strong><em>Massachusetts Attorney General Office<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover abut-end has-white-color has-text-color has-link-color has-medium-font-size wp-elements-f663f5606b5618d0d2bae6925b643f13\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);min-height:36rem;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-dark-teal-background-color has-background-dim-100 has-background-dim\"><\/span><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-cover-is-layout-3f8c44ea wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-pullquote has-drop-shadow has-small-font-size\"><blockquote><p>\u201cI was interested in public policy and making an impact on my community, and Clark helped me do that. Everyone at Clark is committed to making a difference in the lives of those around them \u2013 locally, nationally, and globally.\u201d<\/p><cite><em><strong>\u2014 Bongani T. Jeranyama, B.A. \u201815, MPA \u201816<\/strong><\/em><\/cite><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-style-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What are the program requirements and structure of the MPA at Clark?<\/summary>\n<p>The MPA requires 10 course units: 7 core courses (including a Capstone project) plus 3 electives.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-style-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What skills and competencies will I gain from the program?<\/summary>\n<p>You\u2019ll develop decision\u2011making and problem\u2011solving skills; policy and program development, implementation, and evaluation; conflict management; finance, fundraising, project management; ethics and social responsibility; and communication and leadership capabilities in public and nonprofit sectors.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-style-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Are there flexible scheduling options (online, part\u2011time, etc.)?<\/summary>\n<p>Yes. Clark\u2019s MPA is delivered in multiple formats: on campus, online, or hybrid. Also, terms begin in Fall, Spring, and Summer, allowing you flexibility in timing and pacing your studies.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-style-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can my prior work or professional experience count toward the degree?<\/summary>\n<p>Yes. If you have three or more years of professional experience or hold an industry\u2011standard certification, you may apply for Assessment of Prior Learning (APL) credit. Up to two graduate courses may be granted via APL (with applicable administrative fee), but this is only for the Worcester campus location.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-style-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What are the outcomes and career opportunities after finishing the MPA?<\/summary>\n<p>Graduates are well prepared for leadership roles in government, nonprofit, healthcare, education, public policy, public works, and community services. Career examples include Program Manager, Executive Director, Program Director, Director of Public Works, roles in disaster risk management, or municipal and state attorney positions among others.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull closer is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained has-background\" style=\"min-height:40vh;background-image:url(&apos;https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/11\/graduate-student2.jpg&apos;);background-position:67% 72%;background-size:cover;background-attachment:scroll;\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-content-justification-left is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-fc9f69e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group color has-white-color has-deep-red-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-2c4fff1baf6bbc94eb624d312ffb35c3 is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-c399be0d wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-x-large-font-size\">Academic Excellence. Global Reach. Career Success.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Join our supportive community of scholars. Ready to take the next step?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-icon__location\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"\/graduate-education\/admissions\/visit-and-connect\/\"><span class=\"wp-block-button__link-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 30 30\">\n  <path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M15,26.54h0c-1.68-1.3-3.27-2.72-4.75-4.25-1.23-1.24-2.32-2.61-3.27-4.09-.88-1.27-1.39-2.76-1.48-4.31-.13-5.38,4.12-9.85,9.5-10,5.38.15,9.63,4.62,9.5,10-.09,1.54-.61,3.03-1.48,4.31-.94,1.47-2.04,2.84-3.27,4.09-1.48,1.53-3.07,2.95-4.75,4.25ZM15,9.89c-1.93,0-3.5,1.57-3.5,3.5s1.57,3.5,3.5,3.5,3.5-1.57,3.5-3.5-1.57-3.5-3.5-3.5Z\"\/>\n<\/svg><\/span>Visit<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-icon__apply\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-white-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/gradapply.clarku.edu\/apply\/\"><span class=\"wp-block-button__link-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 30 30\">\n  <path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M7.51,21.22v-12c0-.55.45-1,1-1h10c.55,0,1,.45,1,1v7.21l2.83-2.83c.05-.05.11-.09.17-.14v-6.24c0-1.1-.9-2-2-2h-4.06c-.41-1.26-1.62-2.08-2.94-2-1.32-.08-2.53.74-2.94,2h-4.06c-1.1,0-2,.9-2,2v16c0,1.1.9,2,2,2h7.3l.33-2.95s.02-.03.02-.05h-5.65c-.55,0-1-.45-1-1Z\"\/>\n  <g>\n    <path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M10.51,10.22h6c.55,0,1,.45,1,1h0c0,.55-.45,1-1,1h-6c-.55,0-1-.45-1-1h0c0-.55.45-1,1-1Z\"\/>\n    <path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M10.51,14.22h6c.55,0,1,.45,1,1h0c0,.55-.45,1-1,1h-6c-.55,0-1-.45-1-1h0c0-.55.45-1,1-1Z\"\/>\n    <path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M10.51,18.22h4c.55,0,1,.45,1,1h0c0,.55-.45,1-1,1h-4c-.55,0-1-.45-1-1h0c0-.55.45-1,1-1Z\"\/>\n  <\/g>\n  <path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M19.72,25.1l7.07-7.07c.78-.78.78-2.05,0-2.83l-.55-.55c-.78-.78-2.05-.78-2.83,0l-7.07,7.07,3.38,3.38Z\"\/>\n  <polygon fill=\"currentColor\" points=\"15.2 26.24 19.02 25.81 15.63 22.43 15.2 26.24\"\/>\n<\/svg><\/span>Apply<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-icon__info\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-white-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-element-button\" href=\"\/graduate-education\/request-info\/\"><span class=\"wp-block-button__link-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 30 30\">\n  <path fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M15,4.5c-5.58,0-10.11,4.7-10.11,10.5s4.53,10.5,10.11,10.5,10.11-4.7,10.11-10.5-4.53-10.5-10.11-10.5ZM13.6,10.48c0-.45.22-.7.73-.7h1.71c.51,0,.73.25.73.7v.79c0,.45-.25.7-.73.7h-1.71c-.48,0-.73-.25-.73-.7v-.79ZM18.9,19.85c0,.22-.15.37-.37.37h-6.29c-.21,0-.36-.15-.36-.37v-1.37c0-.21.15-.36.36-.36h1.62v-3.47h-1.58c-.21,0-.36-.15-.36-.36v-1.37c0-.22.15-.37.36-.37h3.84c.52,0,.79.24.79.79v4.78h1.61c.22,0,.37.15.37.36v1.37Z\"\/>\n<\/svg><\/span>Inquire<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Earn an in-demand credential The majority of leadership positions in government and nonprofit organizations today are advertised as \u201cmaster\u2019s preferred.\u201d At the same time, an uptick in retirements in the public servant ranks since the pandemic has created opportunities at all levels and across all sectors. With the Clark MPA as a credential, you are [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":203,"parent":0,"template":"single-clarku_program","meta":{"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"tags":[145],"interest_area":[14,15],"degree_type":[18],"class_list":["post-395","clarku_program","type-clarku_program","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-graduate","interest_area-government-law-and-international-affairs","interest_area-non-profit-human-services-and-education","degree_type-masters"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.4 (Yoast SEO v27.5) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Public Administration, MPA | Programs | Clark University<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/masters\/public-administration-mpa\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Public Administration, MPA\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Earn an in-demand credential The majority of leadership positions in government and nonprofit organizations today are advertised as \u201cmaster\u2019s preferred.\u201d At the same time, an uptick in retirements in the public servant ranks since the pandemic has created opportunities at all levels and across all sectors. 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course units: 7 core courses (including a Capstone project) plus 3 electives.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/masters\/public-administration-mpa\/#faq-2","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/masters\/public-administration-mpa\/#faq-2","name":"What skills and competencies will I gain from the program?","answerCount":"1","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You\u2019ll develop decision\u2011making and problem\u2011solving skills; policy and program development, implementation, and evaluation; conflict management; finance, fundraising, project management; ethics and social responsibility; and communication and leadership capabilities in public and nonprofit 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Clark\u2019s MPA is delivered in multiple formats: on campus, online, or hybrid. Also, terms begin in Fall, Spring, and Summer, allowing you flexibility in timing and pacing your studies.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/masters\/public-administration-mpa\/#faq-4","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/masters\/public-administration-mpa\/#faq-4","name":"Can my prior work or professional experience count toward the degree?","answerCount":"1","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. If you have three or more years of professional experience or hold an industry\u2011standard certification, you may apply for Assessment of Prior Learning (APL) credit. Up to two graduate courses may be granted via APL (with applicable administrative fee), but this is only for the Worcester campus location.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/masters\/public-administration-mpa\/#faq-5","position":5,"url":"https:\/\/www.clarku.edu\/programs\/masters\/public-administration-mpa\/#faq-5","name":"What are the outcomes and career opportunities after finishing the MPA?","answerCount":"1","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Graduates are well prepared for leadership roles in government, nonprofit, healthcare, education, public policy, public works, and community services. 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