MASTER OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
LEARN HUMAN-CENTERED LEADERSHIP WITH VILLANOVA'S MPA
A Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Villanova provides you with an invaluable credential, hands-on experience and lifelong membership in our community. Develop an organizational change plan and make an iMPAct on your community with our values-based approach to public service.
Our MPA offers courses in public administration theory, government and non-profit management, leadership ethics, applied data analysis and more. With classes taught by both scholars and practitioners, our curriculum allows students to specialize in an area of interest with tailored elective courses.
Pursue your passion for public service today.
WHERE CAN AN MPA TAKE YOU?
6.11M
Unique job postings for target occupations from January 2020 to January 2025
$98.5k/yr
Graduates' median earnings
+13.3%
Change in target occupations from 2021 to 2023
*According to Lightcast data.
FAST FACTS
Three professional graduate certificates
Flexible on campus, online and hybrid learning options
39-credit program can be completed in two years
Access to our robust alumni network
Military and veteran benefits
Scholarships and financial aid available
WHY AN MPA AT VILLANOVA?
Ethical Leadership
At Villanova, we believe leadership is a service to others. Our MPA program prepares you to lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose—values inspired by our Augustinian Catholic tradition. Our graduates work to address social and economic issues that affect the public, such as poverty and lack of access to quality healthcare and education.
As a graduate of our NASPAA-accredited program, you'll be equipped to drive ethical, inclusive, and lasting impact in the public sphere.
Professional Certificates
Enhance your credentials with one of our three professional graduate certificates in City Management, Nonprofit Management or Public Administration.
Our graduate certificates offer deep insight into high-demand areas that align with the evolving needs of the public service landscape. Whether pursued independently or as a stepping stone to the full MPA, our graduate certificates are designed to help you serve and lead with confidence in a rapidly changing world.
Flexible Learning
Earn your MPA your way in as little as 18 months with flexibility tailored to your needs.
Whether you choose to study on campus, online or a mix of both, with weekly synchronous classes, you’ll experience a curriculum grounded in real-world application—covering essential topics like ethics, financial management, and strategic planning. Our service-oriented MPA program offers a hands-on learning approach that allows students to gain practical experience and develop the skills necessary to become influential leaders.
ATTEND AN INFO SESSION
Join us for a virtual information session! Learn more about the Villanova Graduate Human Resource Development program and the application process. We will discuss curriculum, ways to specialize the degree, flexibility in scheduling, and the opportunities for growing your career through development and the Villanova HRD Network. We save plenty of time for Q&A. All attendees will receive an application fee waiver code. Space is limited for these events, so register now and we'll send you a web link to participate and reminder messages.
READY TO LEVEL UP?
Application Due: December 1
Term Starts: January 12