Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Online (MPA)
Online (MPA)

The Master in Public Administration is offered through an innovative curriculum that blends online coursework with skill building practicum projects that allow students to apply what they learn to real work situations. Students can enter the program at the beginning of any semester. Two courses and a practicum are offered each semester so the program can be completed in two years. Since the curriculum is fully online, there is no need to come to the Alamosa campus to complete the program.








MPA 500: Intro to Public Administration (3 hours)
An introductory survey to the field of public administration, especially historical, political, and organizational approaches to ethical and reflective professional practice.
MPA 503: Research Methods & Data Analysis (3 hours)
Introduction to research design and methods as well as the basic techniques of statistical analysis. Emphasis will be placed on critical analysis of existing research and the applications of original design and methods to decision making in public policy and administration.
MPA 512: Public Budgeting and Finance
This course provides a solid foundation in public budgeting and finance. It is designed for students currently working in public administration or those who aspire to transition into public or non-profit sectors. It provides a foundation in public budgeting and finance that can be built upon through further study and practical experience, enabling students to develop the critical skills needed for effective financial management and leadership in public administration.
MPA 514: Human Resources Management and Leadership Development
This course explores the institutionalized relationships among people at work, primarily within the public sector. These relationships are formulated within the management in the study of both organizational behavior and human resource management. This course will 1) introduce the key concepts in thinking about organizations and people; 2) Explore human resources management in the public sector through literature and key initiatives currently underway in government, and 3) encourage students to understand and articulate your experiences in order to identify institutional relationships and your own behavior, as well as co-workers and the organizations, within your workplace.