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:

Focus Areas

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

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