Curriculum

As an MPA@UNC student, your curriculum will feature a variety of learning methods to help you build the competencies necessary to serve as a public service leader. You will be required to complete:

• American Government Prerequisite
• Core courses (27 credits)
• Elective courses (15 credits)
• A practicum (1.5 credits)
• A portfolio (1.5 credits)

American Government Prerequisite

MPA@UNC requires all incoming students to demonstrate a working knowledge of the fundamentals of American Government. Upon admission to the program, the Director of Admissions will review your application to determine whether you have met the prerequisite requirements. If you have met the requirements, you will not need to take our prerequisite introductory course.

We encourage those students who have not met the requirement to take our Introduction to American Government course. It is free for all enrolled students and will be available upon receipt of your enrollment deposit. MPA@UNC students must fulfill the prerequisite requirement before registration for their second term or they will not be permitted to register for future terms.

Core Courses — 27 Credits

Elective Courses — 15 Credits

The curriculum is complemented by a series of elective courses that allow you to focus on a specific area of interest. Click on the course below to view a full description and course intro video:

Practicum and Portfolio — 3 Credits Total (1.5 each)

The Professional Work Experience (PWE) practicum and portfolio provide the opportunity to demonstrate and apply knowledge accumulated throughout the program.

Learn more about the Practicum and Portfolio.

Cross-University Courses

You will have the opportunity to enroll in online graduate-level courses from schools affiliated with our technology partner, 2U Inc.

Learn more about Cross-University Courses.