Master of Public Administration
Elevate your career with the skills and knowledge essential for leadership in government and nonprofit sectors. Our Master of Public Administration (MPA) program prepares you for success in areas such as planning, policy analysis, program development, administration, and more.
Specialize Your Expertise
Choose from two focused tracks to align with your career goals:
- Nonprofit Leadership
- Criminal Justice Leadership
Or you can choose to customize your own concentration.
Flexible and Comprehensive
Designed for recent graduates and mid-career professionals alike, our program combines a flexible curriculum with hands-on learning experiences. Through unique internship opportunities, you’ll collaborate with government agencies or nonprofit organizations, gaining real-world expertise and a competitive advantage in the job market.
Lead with Impact
Whether you’re launching your career or advancing to the next level, our MPA program equips you to become a leader in public service—making a meaningful difference in the communities you serve.
Take the Next Step. Become a Leader in Public Service.
At a glance
- 36 Credit Graduate Program
- Flexible Schedule Options
- Tracks in: Nonprofit Leadership and Criminal Justice Leadership
CONTACT
- Dana Caponong | Assistant Director, Graduate Admissions | dcaponon@stac.edu | 845-398-4220
Ignite the Leader Within.
Why Choose our MPA Program?
Our program offers more than just a degree—it’s your pathway to impactful leadership in public service. Here, you’ll experience a personalized, hands-on education in a supportive, close-knit environment where faculty are dedicated to your success. Unlike larger programs, we prioritize your personal growth and career aspirations, providing a learning experience that is as unique as your goals.
Our innovative curriculum emphasizes leadership, policy development, and problem-solving, positioning our program as the premier choice for aspiring leaders in the public and nonprofit sectors. With internships that provide direct connections to government agencies and nonprofit organizations, you’ll gain invaluable hands-on experience. By addressing emerging trends and challenges in public administration, we prepare you to graduate with the skills and expertise to lead confidently in an ever-evolving world.
A Growing Field with Endless Opportunities
The demand for professionals in government and nonprofit sectors is steadily growing, driven by increasing public interest in addressing complex societal challenges. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in government positions is projected to grow from 2021 to 2031. Similarly, nonprofit organizations continue to thrive, employing over 10% of the U.S. workforce and offering various career opportunities. This growth reflects a growing emphasis on community impact, sustainability, and social justice, making public administration a dynamic and rewarding career path for those looking to make a difference.
What Success Looks Like
Career Options
MPA graduates excel in diverse fields such as government, nonprofits, and the private sector. They lead as policy analysts, city planners, and program managers in government, or as directors and community coordinators in nonprofits addressing public health, education, and social issues. Opportunities also abound in consulting firms, think tanks, and international organizations, where their expertise in management and policy drives solutions to complex challenges.
Key Industries for MPA Graduates:
- Nonprofit management
- Government (local, state, federal)
- Public health and education policy
- Economic development
- Consulting and think tanks
- Foundations and philanthropy
Notable MPA Roles:
- Director of Communications/Public Relations
- Executive Director of a Nonprofit
- Budget Director for a Government Agency
- City Commissioner for Economic Development
- Director of Human Resources
- County Executive
- Clinical Manager for an Agency
- Senior Vice President/Chief Operating Officer (COO) of a Housing Authority
- Director of Development Director of Legislative Affairs
- Director of Public Affairs for a Government Department
- Director of Financial Services for Public Clients
- Policy Analyst for a Government Agency
Featured Courses
Discover how organizational culture drives success in mission-driven nonprofits. This course covers strategies for fostering innovation, collaboration, and impact through DEIB initiatives, effective partnerships, and funder relations. With a focus on global nonprofits, explore how culture shapes mission, performance, and organizational effectiveness, equipping you with the tools to lead a thriving, values-driven organization.
Develop the skills to drive meaningful change locally and nationally through community organizing and advocacy. This course explores key organizing principles, effective strategies, and tools for marketing, evaluation, and engagement. You’ll also examine how shifts in civic involvement influence how Americans mobilize for social impact, equipping you to champion the causes you care about.
Master the communication skills essential for leading government and nonprofit organizations. This course focuses on crafting strategic messages for diverse stakeholders, promoting policies and initiatives, and navigating media and special interest groups. Emphasizing ethical and socially responsible communication, you’ll explore branding, messaging, and best practices in today’s dynamic media landscape. Through applied learning and case studies, you’ll develop impactful, results-driven communication strategies tailored to the public sector.
READY TO APPLY?
The following information must be submitted to the Office of Admissions for consideration of an application for the Masters of Public Administration.
- Complete the free Graduate Application
- Official transcripts from each previously attended college or university must be sent to the Office of Admissions directly from the issuing institution
- GRE General Test scores are required for applicants with a grade point average below 2.8
- Submit the contact information for three professional recommenders on your application
- Statement of Professional Goals
- A current Resume
For students with an undergraduate degree outside the United States, applicants must have a transcript evaluation completed by a current member of NACES. St. Thomas Aquinas partners with SpanTran to help you select the right evaluation at a discounted rate. Access the application here: SpanTran Application – St. Thomas Aquinas College. TOEFL Scores may be required for some international applicants.