Department of Political Science

Master of Public Administration

Become a leader and make a difference

Succeed in the public sector developing strategies that work toward the greater good. Become a culturally-competent and engaged administrator.

Invest in your future

Join our graduates who are seeing results from their time and financial investment.

Flexible courses

100% online

Get your degree on your time
Careers in Public Administration

8-14% job growth

through 2022

Made for you

Your master’s in public administration is at your fingertips. The program is available completely online wherever you are in your career.

The knowledge and skills you learn in this program will help you advance in your career or begin a new one.

The practical courses led by expert faculty focus on three main areas: public safety, local government management and public policy.

A view of Strong Hall on the Missouri State Springfield campus.
Traditional

Master's program

Move through course work at your own pace after earning your undergraduate degree.

MSU student studying outside with his laptop.
Accelerated

Accelerated master’s

Complete your undergraduate degree while you work toward your graduate degree at the same time.

Building blocks to the MPA

The political science department offers many certificates for professionals who want to expand in new directions.

When you work toward these certificates, you can also earn credits toward a Master of Public Administration degree. If you pair two of them together, you may already meet the requirements for a Master of Public Administration.

Explore certificates

Skyline view of downtown Springfield, Missouri
Certificate

Economic development

Strategize on how to grow a healthy community.

Three local leaders reviewing and discussing local development plans.
Certificate

Local government management

Gain tools to make you an effective local leader.

Certificate

Public management

Grow your budgetary, policy and critical thinking skills.

MSU students sitting at tables in Strong Hall where international flags are displayed.
Certificate

Public policy

Think big picture and help shape the greater good.

A classroom of MSU students discussing a model of a city.
Certificate

Public safety

Prepare to be a part of protecting your community.

Step into the public eye

One of the best things about the master's degree in public administration is its flexibility. You'll have many diverse career opportunities when you graduate.

Whether you want to into a new step career in public safety, government or non-profit leadership, this degree will build your skillset to propel your career forward.

Alex Jermeland

Alex Jermeland, a 2014 alum, serves as a management analyst in Dakota County, Minnesota.