Public Administration, M.A.

Public Administration, M.A.

Overview

Advance your opportunities in the public sector and become the confident and influential leader you were called to be.

PLNU’s Master of Arts in Public Administration (MPA) is designed for individuals committed to making a positive impact in their communities through public service. Our fully online asynchronous program offers a unique opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences through mentorship from faculty that are scholar-practitioners, ensuring that each graduate is equipped with the skills and knowledge to lead with integrity and effectiveness in the public and non-profit sectors.

An MPA will equip you to expand your leadership opportunities in a variety of organizations, building vital skills such as:

  • Management
  • Policymaking
  • Public communication
  • Government relations
  • Planning and development
  • And more!

All students will complete a capstone project working on active policy initiatives with highly regarded local organizations.

Program Features:

  • Dedication to Public Service: Our curriculum emphasizes collaborative and ethical leadership, preparing students to navigate complex public service environments while upholding the highest standards of integrity.
  • Integrated Management Approaches: Students will learn to combine management techniques across fiscal and human resources, policy formulation, and program administration. This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates can enhance service provision in both governmental and non-profit organizations.
  • Experienced Faculty: Learn from leaders deeply connected to San Diego organizations. All faculty for this program are both scholars and practitioners in the public, nonprofit, and social sectors, with expertise in government relations, statistics, cross-sector collaborations, and more.
  • Evidence-Based Solutions: The program equips students to deliver thorough analyses and develop corresponding solutions to pressing societal issues, with a strong focus on public policy considerations.
  • Commitment to Equity: We are dedicated to fostering cultural responsiveness and equity in all aspects of public administration. Students will engage with diverse populations and learn to implement inclusive practices in their professional endeavors.

Fully online leadership learning

Through this flexible online program, you can become a thoughtful, innovative, and effective leader in administration. You’ll gain the skills to progress your career in the public sector in a study format that fits with your schedule. Earning an online master’s can expand your opportunities without interrupting the responsibilities you’ve been called to.

This online program gives you the flexibility to learn when and where you want. You can complete coursework in the comfort of your home, favorite coffee shop, or local library while choosing a study schedule that works best for you. 

Mentorship and support

Benefit from an exceptional level of personal mentorship and support from an interdisciplinary program faculty — helping you really do it, not just know it.

You’ll work in a collaborative learning environment that will provide you the opportunity to develop a professional and personal network of people who share your goals. You will also use technology to test team building and communication skills, a dynamic that mirrors what you will experience outside the classroom in the marketplace.

Build an impactful future

Whether you’re deeply involved in the public sector or looking to shift into a career with big impacts, the Public Administration M.A. will give you the skills and confidence to be an adaptive, creative leader in a variety of sectors.

This degree can significantly enhance career prospects in public service, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) noting that positions in management and leadership roles within government and non-profit sectors often require or prefer candidates with advanced degrees. The BLS links higher earning potential to higher educational attainment. Additionally, the BLS projects growth in public administration-related fields, particularly in areas like urban planning, health services management, and social services, where the demand for skilled leaders is increasing.

Application Information

Are you ready to take the next step and apply?

We’re here to make the entire process a simple one. We’ll walk you through the application process, answer your questions, and get you one step closer to earning your degree.

Program Start Date(s):

  • Spring 2025 Quad I — January 13, 2025
  • Spring 2025 Quad II — March 17, 2025
  • Summer 2025 Quad I — May 12, 2025
  • Summer 2025 Quad II — July 7, 2025
  • Fall 2025 Quad I — September 2, 2025
  • Fall 2025 Quad II — October 27, 2025

Application Deadline(s):

  • Spring 2025 Quad I — December 11, 2024
  • Spring 2025 Quad II — February 28, 2025
  • Summer 2025 Quad I — April 25, 2025
  • Summer 2025 Quad II — June 20, 2025
  • Fall 2025 Quad I — August 15, 2025
  • Fall 2025 Quad II — October 10, 2025

All applications submitted after these dates will be reviewed based on availability of space.

Start Application

The Selection Process

The educational context at PLNU will challenge you to live a full life that integrates the pursuit of knowledge with beliefs, values, and actions. While honoring diverse perspectives and beliefs, Christian values and principles are woven into the educational experience. We understand your application is not only a reflection of you as a student; it reflects you as a person. At PLNU, we holistically evaluate your academic history, work and life experience, background, and circumstances to determine admission into a graduate program. Your undergraduate GPA is an important piece of your application. However, if you do not meet the minimum GPA requirement of 3.0, you may still be eligible for admission based on your application package and the exceptions policy.* Therefore, we strongly encourage you to contact your enrollment counselor, who will advise you regarding your qualifications and provide specific information about the admission-under-exceptions process.

To be admitted into PLNU's MPA program, you must have a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution, as evidenced by an official transcript.

If you have any questions about your qualifications or the program in general, we encourage you to contact your enrollment counselor.

*Exceptions Policy: If you have a GPA below 3.0 in your baccalaureate degree, you will need to speak with your enrollment counselor for more information on the exceptions materials needed for your particular program.

Application Checklist

Note: The application is completed entirely online with the exception of transcripts, which can be submitted electronically or directly to PLNU.

  1. Submit an online application for admissions (including $50 non-refundable application fee, which is waived for PLNU alums, current or former military and their dependents, and PLNU employees).
  2. Submit official transcripts with proof of earned baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution.* (If you are a PLNU alumnus, please notify your counselor to have your transcripts retrieved. You do not need to request transcripts from the PLNU Office of Records.) 

    Official transcripts must be sent to: 
    Point Loma Nazarene University 
    Office of Graduate Admissions 
    3900 Lomaland Dr. 
    San Diego, CA 92106 

    Official electronic transcripts must be emailed to: 
    gradprocessing@pointloma.edu 

    *Please note, official transcripts must be sent directly from the regionally accredited institution.
  3. Submit a statement of purpose.

    The Master of Arts in Public Administration (MPA) program at Point Loma Nazarene University is committed to cultivating leaders who are passionate about serving their communities with integrity, equity, and effectiveness. As part of your application, please submit a Statement of Purpose (500-750 words) that addresses the following:

    1. Personal and Professional Goals: What are your long-term personal and professional goals, and why is the MPA program at Point Loma Nazarene University the best fit for helping you achieve them?

    2. Dedication to Public Service: Describe your motivation for pursuing or continuing a career in public service. How have your personal and/or professional experiences shaped your desire to contribute to your community through leadership and ethical decision-making?

    3. Commitment to Equity: Discuss your understanding of equity and cultural responsiveness in public administration. How will you foster inclusivity and fairness in your professional practice?

    Your Statement of Purpose should highlight your personal and professional experiences, values, and aspirations in relation to public service.

Start Application

State Authorization

In certain states outside California, PLNU is not authorized to enroll students in online courses and/or offer internships. If a student moves to another state after admission to a program or enrollment in an online course, continuation in the program/course will depend on whether PLNU is authorized within that state. Please refer to the State Authorization map to view which states allow online courses and/or internships.

Career Opportunities

Opportunities include leadership and management positions in the following areas:

  • Accountant/Auditor
  • Chief Administrative Officer
  • Chief Development Officer
  • Chief Financial Officer
  • Chief Law Enforcement Official
  • City/County Manager
  • Community Affairs Representative
  • Emergency Management Specialist
  • Emergency Services Director
  • Environmental, Economic or Social Consultant
  • Healthcare Administrator
  • Human Resources Manager/Director
  • Manager/Director for non-profit organization
  • Political Campaign Specialist
  • Professor
  • Public Works Director
  • Researcher
  • Urban Planner

Professionals working in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, churches, community-based institutions, and businesses will further enhance their leadership competencies through this practical, industry-informed degree. Rising leaders within in-demand areas like urban planning, health services management, and social services particularly benefit from a graduate-level degree in public administration.

Financial Aid and Student Support

We take seriously the role of providing you with financial, academic, and career support so you have the tools you need to be successful at PLNU and beyond. That’s why we offer a holistic support system that focuses on your unique experiences, particular needs, and personal and professional goals — resulting from our deep concern for you, our student.

With a focus on authentic relationships and personalized attention, our goal is to help transform you so you can follow your calling in your own career and life.

Financial Aid and Student Support

Frequently Asked Questions

What is required to be admitted into this program?

To be admitted into PLNU's Public Administration, M.A. program you must have a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution, as evidenced by an official transcript that indicates the completion of an undergraduate degree. You must also have an undergraduate cumulative GPA of at least 3.0. If you don’t meet the minimum GPA requirement, please contact your enrollment counselor regarding the exceptions process.

Can I work while completing the program?

Yes! As a fully online program, the MA Public Administration program allows you to complete your classes while working, and many candidates for this program are already working in fields related to public administration.

What scholarships and financial aid are available to me?

You’ll have the option to apply for scholarships, grants, loans, and other special types of aid through PLNU’s Student Financial Services. Contact your enrollment counselor for more information.

How long does it take to complete this program?

Completion of the degree depends almost entirely upon the energy, confidence, motivation, and availability of the individual student’s schedule and life circumstances. Students take between 16-24 months. A student’s financial aid package can, at times, dictate the academic load that must be maintained.

What are the professional and personal benefits of an MPA degree?

Earning a Master in Public Administration (MPA) can significantly enhance career prospects in public service, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) noting that positions in management and leadership roles within government and non-profit sectors often require or prefer candidates with advanced degrees. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for management occupations was $122,480 as of May 2023, with higher earning potential linked to higher educational attainment. Additionally, the BLS projects growth in public administration-related fields, particularly in areas like urban planning, health services management, and social services, where the demand for skilled leaders is increasing.

How many units does the MPA degree require?

36 units

I completed my B.A. in Public Administration at PLNU. Will any of my courses apply to the M.A. program?

Absolutely! Contact the student success team to find out which courses can be credited toward your M.A. degree.

PLNU is a Christian university, but I am not a Christian. Would I feel out of place in this program?

We welcome and encourage people of all backgrounds as students in our programs. Issues that relate to faith may be discussed in some classes, and engaging in discussion with individuals with alternative points of view will be encouraged as learning opportunities. Students will work within a learning community that is supportive academically, spiritually, and emotionally.

Course List

For information about the courses required for the Public Administration, M.A. program, view the PLNU Catalog.

Course Information

Department Faculty