Master of Public Administration
Overview
The Master of Public Administration prepares students to work in government, nonprofit organizations, and private entities that deal with governmental agencies and public entities and public policy issues. It is a 36-hour program that includes 27 hours of core courses and nine hours of electives. Classes on both public policy and public management are offered. Students also have the option to gain a Master of Public Administration degree completely online. Learn more by visiting the Online MPA page.
Core courses include studies in economics, budgeting, finance, organizational behavior, data analytics, and human resource management. Additionally, students link coursework to real-world experience through an internship. Students already working in public service will complete a practicum through their employer. Pre-service students will find and complete an internship.
Application Process
The MPA Program evaluates applicants based on the following items:
- Undergraduate academic performance
- Three letters of recommendation
- Work experience
- Activities indicating an interest in public management/public policy
- Other experiences that may indicate the ability to complete a professional program.
Each student and their portfolio will be evaluated on an individual basis.
Students may apply as either a full-time or part-time student. Applications will be accepted through the LSU Graduate School for admission in the fall semester. The deadline to apply is July 15.
Financial Assistance
The Department of Public Administration offers assistance in the form of graduate assistantships. If you would like to be considered for an appointment, notify the department and your graduate school application will be utilized as an application for a position. Appointments are merit based, and contractual hours determine stipend amounts.
Periodically, opportunities may arise in other departments. When the Department of Public Administration learns of these opportunities, they will be forwarded to students.
LSU offers the Ronald E. McNair Research Scholars program. Please visit their website for more information.
Additionally, LSU provides information about scholarships, grants, and need-based aid through the Financial Aid & Scholarships website.
Virtual Information Sessions
Information sessions are available and open to all interested prospective students.
Alternatively, individual appointments can be scheduled by contacting our office.
Monday, April 11, 10 a.m.
Wednesday, April 27, 9 a.m.
Thursday, May 12, 12 p.m.
Monday, May 23, 2 p.m.
Completion Rates (2013/2014 Matriculating Cohort)
| Initially Enrolled |
Completed within 2 years | Completed within 3 years | Completed within 4 years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 29 | 52% | 73% | 80% |
Employment Statistics 2017/2018 (21 total students)
| Sector | Percent Employed |
|---|---|
| U.S. Federal Government |
4.8% |
| State Government | 33.3% |
| Local Government | 23.8% |
| Nonprofit | 4.8% |
| Private Sector (Research/Consulting) | 9.5% |
| Private Sector (Non Research/Consulting) | 14.3% |
| Obtaining further Education | 4.8% |
| Military Services | 4.8% |
| Unknown |