The field of public affairs is changing rapidly. Now more than ever, ethical and globally-aware leadership is needed at the federal, state, and local levels. Prepare yourself for a leadership position with a Master of Public Affairs (MPA) from the Indiana University O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs. 

The IU Online Master of Public Affairs is one of the most versatile and valuable degrees available--a blend of a Master of Public Administration and a Master of Public Policy. You have the ability focus your coursework in one of four advanced curriculum areas, including nonprofit management, policy analysis, public financial administration, or public management.

As a student in the program, you take courses in public management, statistical analysis, public management economics, law and public affairs, and public finance and budgeting. You also complete a capstone course that allows you to synthesize what you have learned throughout the program. In addition, you gain relevant experience through an internship or research project, or you can demonstrate ways you have already gained experience through employment or volunteer service. Students can also receive credit for their prior professional experiences in addition to a waiver of the experiential component of the degree program. 

Your IU Online MPA prepares you to work in the public, private, or nonprofit sector in such careers as:

• Public policy director 
• Public policy researcher
• Community service manager
• Public relations specialist
• Civil service administrator
• Local government officer
• City manager
• Housing specialist

Degree Requirements

To graduate with the MPA, you must complete 48 credit hours.

Requirements are broken down as follows:

• MPA core courses (18 credit hours) 
• Advanced elective courses (18 credit hours) 
• Experiential component (3-6 credit hours) 
• Elective courses (6-9 credit hours)