14 Fully Funded MPP (Master of Public Policy) & MPA (Master of Public Administration) Programs in the US
Princeton University Programs Offered:Master in Public Affairs (MPA); Master in Public Policy (MPP) Location:Robertson Hall ⋅ Princeton University, NJ 08544-1013 Admission: Admission to the program is extremely competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
Princeton University offers a MPA program and a MPP program.
The School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) offers two distinguished graduate programs: the Master in Public Affairs (MPA) and the Master in Public Policy (MPP). These programs are designed to cultivate future leaders in public service, each catering to different career stages and professional backgrounds.
The MPA program admits approximately 70 students annually, targeting individuals with a proven dedication to public service. Applicants typically have prior full-time work experience, complemented by internships and volunteer work. The curriculum focuses on developing skills in political, economic, quantitative, and behavioral analysis. While not mandatory, previous coursework in mathematics, statistics, and economics is advantageous.
In contrast, the MPP is a one-year residential program designed for mid-career professionals with at least seven years of experience in public or nonprofit sectors. Enrolling about 20 students each year, it aims to enhance the skills of established professionals, preparing them for greater leadership roles. The MPP curriculum includes rigorous training in quantitative and policy analysis, preceded by a mandatory six-week summer program starting in July.
Admission to both programs is highly competitive and holistic. For the MPA, a genuine commitment to public service is paramount, while MPP applicants must demonstrate leadership, creativity, and the ability to thrive in a demanding academic environment. The MPP admission process equally weighs the depth of the applicant's career in public service and their leadership potential.
A distinctive feature of SPIA is its comprehensive financial support. Accepted students in both programs receive full coverage of tuition and required fees, along with a need-based living stipend. For MPA students, this support extends over two years, while MPP students receive it for their one-year program. The admissions process is need-blind, ensuring that financial considerations do not influence admission decisions.
This generous financial aid is provided through a combination of school grants, external fellowships, and institutional sponsorships. It aligns with SPIA's mission to enable students to pursue careers in public service without the burden of tuition debt, reflecting the school's commitment to investing in future public service leaders and making these advanced degrees more accessible to those dedicated to serving the public good.
Yale University Programs Offered:Master in Public Policy in Global Affairs Location:55 Hillhouse Avenue New Haven, CT 06511 Admission: Admission to the program is extremely competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
Yale University's Jackson School of Global Affairs offers a distinctive Master in Public Policy (M.P.P.) program focused on global affairs. This academically rigorous and flexible curriculum is designed to prepare students for impactful careers in global leadership and service.
The program's unique structure features a four-course interdisciplinary core, providing students with a shared foundation in critical thinking, leadership skills, and global affairs concepts. This concise core allows for substantial flexibility, enabling students to tailor their studies by accessing a wide range of courses and resources across Yale University.
With an intentionally small cohort of about 35 students per class, the M.P.P. program fosters a close-knit community of diverse individuals with varied backgrounds and career aspirations. This intimate setting facilitates dynamic interactions and networking opportunities, creating lasting connections among future global leaders.
Graduates of the program pursue careers in various sectors, including policy analysis, security, trade, economic development, foreign affairs, human rights, international finance, and environmental policy. The Jackson School also offers a one-year Master of Advanced Study (M.A.S.) in Global Affairs for mid-career professionals.
Located in New Haven, Connecticut, Yale University provides students with a rich urban experience, offering diverse cultural, culinary, and recreational opportunities. The city's proximity to major metropolitan areas like Boston and New York City further enhances its appeal.
The Jackson School is committed to making the M.P.P. program financially accessible. All incoming M.P.P. students receive fellowships covering 100% of tuition. Additionally, about half of each cohort, including students from underrepresented regions such as Africa and Latin America, are awarded living stipends to cover the full cost of attendance.
This comprehensive approach to education, combining academic rigor, flexibility, and financial support, positions Yale's Jackson School as a premier institution for those seeking to make a significant impact in the field of global affairs.
The University of Georgia Programs Offered:Master of Public Administration (MPA) Location:204 Candler Hall Athens, GA 30602 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
The University of Georgia (UGA) offers a comprehensive Master of Public Administration (MPA) program designed to cultivate skilled professionals for careers in public service. This program aims to develop leaders capable of excelling in various roles within government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and research institutions.
UGA's MPA curriculum is structured to provide a robust foundation in public sector management and policy analysis. The program welcomes both early-career professionals and those with existing public service experience seeking career advancement. While primarily serving as a terminal professional degree, some graduates have pursued doctoral studies, leading to academic careers.
A distinguishing feature of UGA's MPA program is its blend of academic rigor and practical application. The curriculum offers a diverse range of elective courses and specialized tracks, allowing students to tailor their education to specific career aspirations within public administration and policy. This flexibility enables students to develop expertise in areas such as government administration, nonprofit management, or international development.
The program benefits from small class sizes, fostering close interaction between students and faculty. Professors in the program are not only respected scholars but also active practitioners, providing students with valuable insights into real-world public service challenges. This combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience equips graduates to address complex issues in their future careers effectively.
Financial support is available to qualified students through various channels. The Department of Public Administration and Policy offers teaching and research assistantships that include stipends and tuition waivers for up to four semesters. Additional funding opportunities include competitive assistantships from the Graduate School and research positions on faculty-led projects. For out-of-state students, a limited number of tuition waivers are available, although these are not automatically renewed annually.
To be considered for assistantships, prospective students must complete their program applications by January 15. This early deadline ensures that qualified candidates have the best chance of securing financial support for their studies.
The University of Utah Programs Offered:Master of Public Administration Location:260 South Central Campus Drive, Suite 3050 Salt Lake City, UT 84112 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
The University of Utah offers a Master of Public Administration (MPA) program that has been empowering professionals across various sectors since 1976. This program is designed to equip students with the necessary tools and knowledge to effect positive change in their communities and beyond.
The MPA program at the University of Utah is founded on principles of ethical administration, legal foundations of public service, appreciation for the nonprofit sector, and a commitment to social equity and justice. Its accreditation by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) underscores its adherence to global standards in public service education.
The program's mission is threefold. Firstly, it aims to prepare a diverse group of experienced and aspiring administrators in applying essential administrative competencies to public and nonprofit organizations within political, legal, and ethical contexts. This preparation is designed to expand opportunities for students to participate and lead in professional work and civic affairs, emphasizing strong legal standards, ethical commitment, compassion, and appreciation for the roles of various stakeholders in modern governance.
Secondly, the program emphasizes the importance of faculty and students creating and disseminating new knowledge and developing insights that enhance the ability to govern in the public interest. Lastly, it underscores the duty of faculty, staff, and students to devote time and expertise to their profession, communities, academic field, and university.
The University of Utah MPA program offers a competitive Graduate Assistantship opportunity. This position involves working with department leadership in program management and student recruitment for 20 hours per week during the academic year. In return, the graduate assistant receives a full tuition waiver (excluding differential tuition) and an additional stipend, typically amounting to approximately $20,000 per academic year, paid biweekly.
This comprehensive program structure, combined with the practical experience offered through the assistantship, provides students with a robust foundation for careers in public administration. The program's commitment to ethical leadership, social justice, and community engagement prepares graduates to make meaningful contributions in their chosen fields.
The University of Iowa Programs Offered:Master of Public Affairs Location:347 Jessup Hall, Iowa City IA 52242-1316 Admission: Admission to the program is highly competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.
The University of Iowa offers a Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program designed to address the complex challenges facing communities, nations, and the world in the 21st century. This program aims to cultivate future leaders capable of tackling issues such as environmental change, healthcare, aging populations, inequality, and public safety through innovative and democratic approaches.
The MPA curriculum at Iowa is inherently interdisciplinary, drawing from various colleges, departments, and centers across the university. This comprehensive approach positions the University of Iowa as a leader in public affairs education both locally and nationally. Students benefit from a diverse range of courses offered not only within the School of Planning and Public Affairs but also across multiple disciplines including business, law, public health, and social sciences.
The program offers two areas of concentration: Public and Nonprofit Management, and Public Policy. The former focuses on strategic management, organizational structures, leadership, and fundraising, while the latter allows students to specialize in various policy areas such as environmental sustainability, economic development, health, and criminal justice.
Financial assistance is available to graduate students through various channels. Many receive departmental funding in the form of graduate assistantships and fellowships. Fellowships, primarily offered to new students, provide a flat sum without work requirements. Graduate assistantships, on the other hand, typically range from 1/3 to 1/2 time, requiring 13-20 hours of work per week.
For the 2024-25 academic year, a 1/3 time assistantship offers a stipend of $14,219 annually, paid in ten monthly installments. This comes with a full tuition scholarship and 50% coverage of mandatory student fees. Assistantship recipients also qualify for in-state tuition rates and receive a health insurance allowance applicable to university-sponsored plans.
To be eligible for these assistantships, students must enroll in at least 9 semester hours of public affairs courses (PBAF prefix) during their first two semesters. This requirement ensures that students are fully engaged in the program while benefiting from financial support.
Through its comprehensive curriculum and financial support structures, the University of Iowa's MPA program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to become effective public affairs leaders capable of addressing the grand challenges of our time.
Mississippi State University Programs Offered:Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA) Location:105 Bowen Hall P. O. Box PC Mississippi State, MS 39762 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The Department of Political Science and Public Administration at Mississippi State University offers a Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA) program. This program is designed to prepare students for effective public service at various levels of government, with a particular focus on state and local administration in Mississippi and surrounding regions.
The department boasts a diverse faculty of 16 members specializing in various subfields of political science and public administration. Their research is widely published and often supported by competitive grants. The MPPA program, accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), maintains a favorable faculty-to-student ratio, allowing for close interaction between students and instructors.
Graduates of the MPPA program are expected to demonstrate competencies in leadership, policy process participation, critical thinking, decision-making, public service perspective, and effective communication in diverse environments. The program typically enrolls 35-50 students from Mississippi and other states.
Financial support is available through teaching, research, and service graduate assistantships, with stipends ranging from $9,250 to $16,000. These positions also cover most university fees and all out-of-state fees, making the program more accessible to a diverse student body.
Michigan State University Programs Offered:Master of Public Policy Location:368 Farm Ln, East Lansing, MI 48824 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
Michigan State University (MSU) offers a Master of Public Policy (MPP) program designed for individuals passionate about addressing real-world societal challenges. This program, uniquely administered jointly by top economics and political science departments at a Research-1 university, provides students with a comprehensive understanding of policy design, implementation, and evaluation.
The MPP curriculum emphasizes data analytics, numerical literacy, and a deep understanding of political and economic contexts. Students develop strong quantitative and analytical skills alongside advanced written and verbal communication abilities. The program's structure allows for part-time or full-time work, with evening classes facilitating completion within two years.
A key feature of MSU's MPP program is its small cohort size (15-25 students), offering more personalized attention and a customizable approach to individual needs and interests. The program's proximity to Michigan's capital provides numerous professionalization opportunities, and its extensive alumni network supports graduates in pursuing high-level policy roles globally.
Financial support is available through competitive graduate assistantships and fellowships. These positions, offered by the MPP program and in conjunction with MSU's Institute for Public Policy and Social Research (IPPSR), require 10-20 hours of work per week on research, teaching, or administrative assignments. In return, recipients receive a stipend, tuition and fee waivers for 9 credits per semester, and health insurance coverage.
The IPPSR fellowships specifically involve applying research findings to Michigan public policy issues, compiling information for policymakers, and participating in civic education efforts. Mid-career applicants with experience in Michigan government or policymaking are particularly encouraged to apply for these fellowships.
MSU's MPP program stands out for its interdisciplinary approach, experienced faculty engaged in cutting-edge research, and commitment to fostering leaders capable of making positive impacts in their communities and the world at large. The program equips graduates with transferable skills applicable to various sectors, including public, private, and nonprofit organizations.
Augusta University Programs Offered:Master of Public Administration Location:1120 15th Street AH-N312 Augusta, GA 30912 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
Augusta University offers a Master of Public Administration (MPA) program designed to prepare leaders for careers in public and nonprofit organizations. Accredited by the Network of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), this program aims to enhance the performance of public and nonprofit entities at local, state, and national levels.
The MPA curriculum is versatile, covering various fields such as cybersecurity management, economic development, criminal justice, and emergency management. Classes are scheduled to accommodate working professionals, and the faculty includes a mix of traditional academics, "pracademics" with practical experience, and current industry professionals.
The program offers limited graduate assistantships each academic year, providing tuition waivers and stipends based on hours worked. Eligibility for these positions requires full-time enrollment (minimum 9 credit hours) and no academic restrictions. Selection criteria include academic performance, relevant skills and experience, recommendations, and program needs.
Augusta University's MPA program is committed to continuous improvement through regular assessment and evaluation, guided by a mission focused on preparing competent and ethical public service leaders. This approach ensures the program remains relevant and effective in meeting the evolving needs of the public and nonprofit sectors.
University of Wyoming Programs Offered:Masters of Public Administration Location:Arts & Sciences Building 208 Dept. 3197 1000 E. University Ave. Laramie, WY 82071 Admission: Admission to the program is more competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.
The University of Wyoming offers a Master of Public Administration (MPA) program designed to prepare both experienced professionals and pre-career students for leadership roles in public service. This professional degree equips students with the skills necessary to design and implement policies, projects, and programs that address societal issues while managing daily administrative tasks in public and non-profit organizations.
The MPA curriculum comprises 39 credits, including 24 hours of core courses and 15 credits of electives. Core courses focus on developing comprehensive administrative, managerial, quantitative, financial, and analytical skills applicable across various sectors. Elective courses allow students to specialize in areas aligned with their career objectives. Pre-service students are required to complete an internship in the public sector, which can be waived for those with relevant experience.
The program's learning objectives are structured around five key domains: leadership and management in the public interest, participation in the policy process, critical analysis and decision-making, application of public service perspectives, and effective communication in diverse environments. These objectives aim to produce graduates who can lead ethically, understand policy influences, make evidence-informed decisions, and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Graduate assistantships are available, with priority consideration given to applications received by March 15th for the following academic year. A full-time master's level assistantship is valued at approximately $27,517, including a stipend of $15,642 and coverage for tuition, fees, and student health insurance. Graduate assistants are expected to work an average of 20 hours per week during the academic year.
The tuition and fee reduction associated with assistantships typically covers up to 12 graduate credit hours at the resident rate, though this may vary depending on the funding source. Students are advised to confirm the specifics of their coverage with their department.
The MPA program at the University of Wyoming offers a flexible structure that allows students to complete the degree in about 2 years full-time or 3-4 years part-time, catering to both traditional students and working professionals seeking to advance their careers in public service.
Boise State University Programs Offered:Master of Public Administration (MPA) Location:1910 University Drive – MS 1935 Boise, Idaho 83725 Admission: Admission to the program is competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Boise State University offers a Master of Public Administration (MPA) program through its School of Public Policy and Administration. This professional graduate degree is widely recognized for its focus on public and nonprofit management, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application.
The MPA program at Boise State prepares students for diverse career opportunities across governmental, nonprofit, and corporate sectors. Graduates have secured positions in various federal agencies, state departments, local government offices, and nonprofit organizations. Some alumni have also pursued careers in corporate governmental affairs divisions.
The curriculum equips students with a unique skill set that is highly sought after by employers in public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Faculty members work closely with students and graduates, offering support in career development. Internships are encouraged as they provide valuable networking opportunities and practical experience.
Graduate assistantships are available to a limited number of MPA students. These positions typically offer a stipend ranging from $12,000 to $15,000 for a 9-month period, along with health insurance and a waiver of tuition and fees, including out-of-state tuition. Graduate assistants are expected to enroll full-time (9 credits) and work 20 hours per week on assigned projects.
The School of Public Policy and Administration is also involved in consulting services for the public sector through its Public Policy Center. Recent projects undertaken by MPA faculty include the Idaho Public Policy Survey and the Mountain West Municipal Clerks and Treasurers Institute.
For students and graduates seeking career assistance, the program recommends contacting Dr. Monica Hubbard or utilizing the services offered by the Boise State Career Center. These resources can provide guidance and support as students navigate their career paths in public administration.
Interested candidates can find graduate assistantship applications online through the Boise State Graduate College website. A complete application packet should include a cover letter, resume, and full transcripts.
Cleveland State University Programs Offered:Master of Public Administration (MPA) Location:Urban Building, Room 205 1717 Euclid Avenue Cleveland, OH 44115 Admission: Admission to the program is competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Cleveland State University's Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs offers a highly regarded Master of Public Administration (MPA) program, consistently ranked among the nation's top public affairs colleges by U.S. News & World Report. This NASPAA-accredited program is designed to cultivate effective leaders for diverse urban environments, emphasizing leadership development, community problem-solving, and a comprehensive understanding of public policy and management in a multicultural society.
The MPA curriculum comprises 42 credit hours, blending core courses, specialization areas, electives, and a capstone project. It covers essential aspects of public service, including organizational management, political and legal processes, economic systems, financial administration, nonprofit management, analytical techniques, and human resources management. A strong focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion is integrated throughout the program.
To enhance the educational experience, the school offers various professional development opportunities. These include a mentoring program, internships, and networking events, all aimed at augmenting students' career prospects and practical skills.
Financial support is available through competitive graduate assistantships and over thirty dedicated scholarships. Full-time assistantships require 20 hours of work per week and include a stipend of $4,200 per semester, along with potential tuition support for 9 credit hours at the Ohio-resident rate. To qualify, students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and enroll in at least 9 credit hours per semester. Part-time assistantships, typically involving 10 hours of work weekly, are also available with stipend-only support.
The program's educational philosophy emphasizes engaged and interactive learning, fostering collaboration between faculty and students. This approach aims to generate, share, and extend intellectual resources for the benefit of the broader community. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, the MPA program at Cleveland State University prepares graduates to make meaningful contributions to public service and urban development.
Kansas State University Programs Offered:Master of Public Administration (MPA) Location:101D Calvin Hall 802 Mid Campus Dr. South, Manhattan, KS 66506 Admission: Admission to the program is competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Kansas State University's Master of Public Administration (MPA) program is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the public sector. This versatile degree equips graduates with the skills necessary to excel in various administrative positions within government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private corporations that interact with government entities.
The program caters to both pre-service and in-service students. Those without prior administrative experience benefit from valuable internship opportunities during their studies, which often lead to challenging employment upon graduation. For professionals already working in the field, the MPA program offers a chance to enhance their skillsets and advance their careers.
Financial support is available to graduate students through two primary channels: graduate assistantships and scholarships/fellowships. Graduate assistantships involve a 20-hour per week commitment, supporting faculty in teaching, research, or a combination of both. These positions offer financial benefits including a stipend, tuition waiver, and fee reductions.
Selection for assistantships is based on several criteria, including academic performance, the department's teaching and research needs, and the applicant's financial situation. To be eligible, students must maintain full-time enrollment (minimum 6 credit hours) and make reasonable progress towards their degree. Assistants are typically assigned to one or two faculty members but may be asked to support other department members as needed.
The department also offers various scholarships and fellowships specifically for public administration graduate students. These financial aid opportunities vary in terms of award amounts and specific requirements.
The MPA program at Kansas State University is structured to provide a comprehensive education in public administration, preparing students for the complexities of modern governance. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience, the program aims to produce well-rounded professionals capable of navigating the challenges of public sector management.
Graduates of the program find employment opportunities at all levels of government, as well as in regional organizations, nonprofit entities, and private sector firms engaged in government-related work. The flexibility of the program allows students to tailor their education to their specific career goals, whether they are entering the field for the first time or seeking to advance within their current roles.
Missouri State University Programs Offered:Master of Public Administration Location:Political Science and Philosophy Department School of Humanities and Social Sciences 901 S. National Ave. Springfield, MO 65897 Admission: Admission to the program is competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Missouri State University offers a fully online Master of Public Administration (MPA) program designed to enhance career prospects in public service. The curriculum, developed by expert faculty, focuses on public safety, local government management, and public policy. Students complete 36 credit hours, including 21 hours of core requirements covering fiscal management, public policy, and leadership principles.
The program includes an internship, a comprehensive exam, and a research component, providing a well-rounded educational experience. Graduates are prepared to address complex societal issues, design effective solutions, and lead financial and policy discussions.
Alumni have secured positions such as city manager, executive director, program director, and transportation planning specialist.
The political science department offers up to 10 graduate assistantships annually for MPA and Master of International Affairs students, providing a stipend and tuition waiver. Assistantships require nine hours of coursework per semester and may involve administrative or research responsibilities.
Non-teaching assistantships are also available across the university, offering opportunities in various academic and administrative areas. The program encourages MPA students to apply for these positions, enhancing their practical experience while pursuing their degree.
Illinois State University Programs Offered:Master of Public Service Location:Department of Politics & Government Illinois State University 403 W. College Ave. Admission: Admission to the program is competitive. Funding: Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.
Illinois State University's Department of Political Science offers a Master of Public Service program, designed as a 32-credit hour sequence within the Political Science master's degree. This program caters to students aspiring to work in the public sector, with a particular focus on state and local government.
Recognizing that financial constraints can impede graduate education, the department provides various options for financial assistance. A key component of this support is the Graduate Assistantship program. Graduate Assistants play a vital role in the department's teaching and research activities, often engaging in instructional support for large classes, student counseling, grading, and faculty research assistance.
Full-time Graduate Assistants work 20 hours per week, while half-time positions require 10 hours. These positions offer a monthly stipend and a full tuition waiver. While the department aims to provide a full year of assistantship support, with potential extensions, this is subject to available funding and student performance.
Eligibility for assistantships requires a minimum 3.0 GPA for the last 60 hours of undergraduate work or specified GRE scores for new graduate students. Current ISU graduate students must maintain a 3.0 GPA. Assistantships are awarded on a semester basis, with applications for fall positions due by March 15.
The department also offers tuition waivers without work responsibilities. These include general waivers and specific awards for minority students through the Graduate School. Applications for waiver-only awards follow the same deadline as assistantship applications.
This comprehensive support system demonstrates the department's commitment to making graduate education accessible and fostering a diverse, skilled cohort of future public service professionals. By combining financial assistance with practical experience, the program prepares students for successful careers in public administration at various levels of government.
Admission to the program is extremely competitive. 
Admission to the program is highly competitive.
Admission to the program is more competitive.
Admission to the program is competitive.