The Master of Public Administration MPA program of the Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University is committed to nationally recognized excellence in public administration education to the development of leadership in the search for solutions to urban problems and to an enhanced understanding of public policy and public affairs in a global and diverse society

To advance intellectual and administrative leadership in public administration, the MPA program:

• Prepares a diverse student body to assume the challenges of public service by providing them with a foundation in general public administration and specialized skills grounded in one of the Program's areas of expertise;
• Discovers, constructs, interprets, and disseminates knowledge and understanding about the practice of public affairs; and
• Serves the region, including the professional community, by extending intellectual resources and applying knowledge.

The program’s curriculum is designed to accommodate part-time, mid-career students, as well as full-time students. Courses are offered primarily during the evenings and a few on weekends.

Depending on the university, graduate education in the field of public affairs and administration can have different emphases and the degree granted can have a number of different names. While a master’s degree in public administration – the MPA – is the most common degree, it also may be known as a master of governmental administration, a master in public affairs, a master of international relations or a number of other specific concentrations. In every case, the degree is a professional one and the educational program is designed to train individuals for government service and related fields.

While the title of the program is not important, the substance is. Every graduate program has a core curriculum designed to teach the skills required for effective public management planning, decision-making, nonprofit management and other related policies.

Graduates of public affairs programs have a wide range of skills. They are prepared for many different jobs yet they have something in common. They understand the challenge, anticipate the excitement, and accept the responsibility that comes with managing in the public sector.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Applicants to the Master of Public Administration Program must meet the minimum requirements established by the College of Graduate Studies and the MPA program faculty: + A minimum undergraduate grade-point average of 3.0. + Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, with an average Verbal and Quantitative score at the 40th percentile, and an Analytical Writing score of at least 4.0. Students with a graduate degree from an accredited U.S. college or university are exempted from this requirement. Other standardized admission examinations may be substituted at the discretion of the Program Director. + Two letters of recommendation, preferably from faculty. + Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English-language proficiency.

Graduate Assistantships and scholarships are competitive, and are awarded to qualified students who have been admitted to Urban Affairs graduate degree programs. Candidates must have an undergraduate or graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher to qualify for and retain a graduate assistantship.

Tuition fee-2 years$42,000

Total fee-2 years$82,000