Develop essential leadership skills for the public sector and learn about strategic management, public policy, government relations, budgeting, finance and more.
Why study Public Administration?
This program is designed for professionals employed in all areas of the public sector who wish to improve their management skills and knowledge. Offered online, on campus, and at various Southern California locations, CSUN’s MPA features three options:
- Public Sector Management and Leadership
- Health Administration
- Nonprofit Sector Management
Graduates will possess the sophisticated skills and knowledge to excel in top positions within the sector. Each MPA option features a unique, highly specific curriculum, designed to help professionals rapidly advance in their careers.
Why study Public Administration at CSUN?
CSUN is California's leading provider of MPA degrees and the nation's third-largest provider (behind only Harvard and Columbia universities). It ranks 1st nationally in the Top 17 MPA Programs by GraduatePrograms.com. Of the nation's top four MPA providers, only CSUN offers both online and face-to-face instruction, and has more off-campus locations than any other provider.
Working in partnership with 10 Los Angeles County agencies, eight cities and two counties outside of Los Angeles, CSUN ensures that public sector professionals possess the means to thrive in their chosen fields and to become effective agents of change at all levels of government and within their communities. Since 1985, more than 2,000 graduates have earned their MPA degrees.
This program is offered through self-support. Visit Tseng College for more information.
What You'll Learn
In each course, you’ll explore concepts and methods that are unique to the sector, giving you the context to understand and manage a variety of public sector organizations and agencies. The program improves your business instincts and critical thinking skills. It also hones your ability to make important decisions in high-pressure environments.
Through the program, you’ll also learn how to:
- Manage organizational change
- Plan and execute strategy
- Spearhead fundraising initiatives
- Implement public policy
- Increase organizational efficiency
Careers & Outcomes
This program is ideal for staff and administrators who are currently employed in the public, private or nonprofit sectors and looking to advance their careers, as well as for those seeking employment in these areas. It is also an excellent choice for professionals in other fields who are interested in transitioning to the public sector. Graduates of the program build valuable working relationships with public sector administrators, which serve them throughout their professional lives.