Academics Overview

MPA@UNC will equip you with the managerial and public policy skills you need to become an effective leader within a public service organization. The online MPA begins with nine core courses that focus on key subject areas such as public administration institutions and values, professional communication, and financial management. You can then customize your education with a range of electives.

Degree Requirements

MPA@UNC is 45 credits and can be completed in as few as 18 months. Learn more about the curriculum.

The curriculum breaks down as follows:

27

Core Course Credits
 

15

Elective Credits
 
 

1.5

Professional Work Experience Practicum

1.5

Portfolio Credits
 

Concentrations

This online MPA allows you to choose from a range of concentrations based on your academic and career goals:

Public Management:

Build the leadership and economic development skills to promote social change in various types of communities.

Learn More

International Relations:

Learn to drive policy change using skills in intercultural communication, economic development, and conflict resolution.

Learn More

Local Government:

Learn a variety of skills—including city and county management and government accounting—to grow your career in this sector.

Learn More

Nonprofit Management:

Prepare for a career at a nonprofit organization through courses on grant writing, accounting and reporting, and management.

Learn More

Public Health:

Learn to apply your knowledge of policy evaluation and reform to issues relating to global health and wellness.

Learn More

Practicum and Portfolio

As an online MPA student, you are required to complete a practicum and a portfolio:

  • Practicum: You will complete public service work in your community to gain real-world, hands-on experience in your sector.
  • Portfolio: You will assemble a body of work that demonstrates your mastery of core public leadership competencies.

Learn more about the Practicum and Portfolio

Take the Next Step

Advance your career in public administration by earning an MPA degree online from UNC-Chapel Hill.

Start Your Application Today