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Public Administration and Policy, M.S.

Now more than ever, we need leaders who can help our governments, nonprofits, and other public organizations navigate increasingly complex times. McDaniel’s Master’s in Public Administration and Policy program prepares you to guide the way.

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Degree Types
Master's
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Program Cost
$647 per credit
Key
Format
Online
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Total credits
33

About the Program

This fully online degree program equips you to be a thoughtful and insightful leader within your community by educating you in the various facets of public administration and policy planning and governing. You’ll learn how to be an effective and skilled director in any public organization by learning from well-versed practitioners. 

Key Outcomes

Throughout the program, you will:

• Learn how to manage financial and human resources in public and non-profit organizations

• Form and articulate your personal leadership identity and values as they relate to the role of a public administrator

• Participate in and contribute to the policy process through development, implementation, and evaluation of public policy and programs

Why McDaniel for Public Administration and Policy

We’ve designed our program to make sure it meets the needs of today’s aspiring leaders.

  • Convenience. The program is 100% online and can be completed in just two years
  • Affordability. Our competitive tuition puts a degree within your reach
  • Structure. Courses are offered in eight-week segments with two courses offered per semester

What You Need to Know About the M.S. in Public Administration and Policy

Admissions Requirements

Candidates must submit:

  • Completed application for graduate study
  • Official transcript verifying completion of an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 3.00 (Students with a GPA between 2.75 and 2.99 will be admitted provisionally which requires a student to maintain a 3.0 GPA in the first 9 to 12 credit hours. Students with less than a 2.75 GPA can be considered for provisional admission on a case-by-case basis but may be required to provide additional documents or participate in an interview. Admission may also require additional conditions.)
  • Professional resume highlighting related work experience
  • Goal statement detailing personal and professional goals relative to the program of study

Degree Requirements

  • Successful completion of 33 credits hours outlined in the curriculum
  • Minimum 3.0 G.P.A.
  • Successful completion of professional portfolio, presentation, and public service internship

Special Opportunities

An employer talks to students at a job and internship fair.

Culminating Experience

All students in the M.S. in Public Administration and Policy program have the option of choosing a 3 credit internship or a 3 credit capstone project.

Advancing Your Career

Students who graduate with an M.S. in Public Administration and Policy have pursued careers in:

  • Local, State, and Federal Government
  • Nonprofit Management
  • Higher Education
  • Human Resource Management
  • Public Safety
  • Research