Marywood University

What you'll study

The MPA curriculum combines core public administration theory with applied skills for contemporary public service. Core topics typically include public administration theory and ethics, public budgeting and financial management, policy analysis and programme evaluation, quantitative and qualitative research methods, human resource management in the public sector, and organisational behaviour.

Students also study practical topics such as grant writing and fundraising, nonprofit management, intergovernmental relations, community development and strategic planning. The programme usually culminates in a practicum or capstone project that requires students to apply analytical tools and management techniques to a real-world problem in a government agency, nonprofit organisation or other public institution.

• Public Administration Theory and Ethics
• Public Budgeting and Financial Management
• Policy Analysis and Programme Evaluation
• Research Methods for Public Administrators
• Human Resource Management in the Public Sector
• Nonprofit Management and Fundraising
• Grant Writing and Project Management
• Capstone or Practicum Project

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in any discipline from an accredited institution. Admissions typically consider undergraduate academic performance, a personal statement outlining professional goals and interest in public service, and a current résumé. Candidates with relevant work or volunteer experience in government, community organisations or related fields are especially competitive.

Marywood may request academic transcripts and letters of recommendation as part of the application. Standardised test requirements vary by cohort and applicant background; applicants should consult the programme for current testing policies. Where applicable, applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency in English.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MPA commonly move into leadership and management roles across the public, nonprofit and quasi‑public sectors. Typical career paths include positions such as municipal or county administrator, policy analyst, budget analyst, programme manager, grant manager, nonprofit executive director, community development coordinator and human resources manager for public agencies.

The degree also prepares students for roles in federal agencies, state departments, local government, advocacy organisations, healthcare administration and education administration. Skills in policy analysis, budgeting, evaluation and stakeholder engagement are transferable across sectors and useful for professionals pursuing career advancement or transitions into public service.

Why study at Marywood University

Marywood offers a values-driven education emphasising ethical leadership and community engagement, reflecting its Catholic liberal arts tradition. The programme is delivered in small cohorts that favour personalised instruction and close faculty mentorship, which benefits students seeking applied, practice-oriented training.

Students gain experiential learning opportunities through practicum placements and community partnerships in the region, and the curriculum is designed to balance theory with real-world applications. Flexible scheduling options and support services for graduate students help working professionals balance study with career and personal commitments.