University of Delaware

What you'll study

The MPA curriculum combines core public administration subjects with applied skills and an experiential culminating requirement. Core modules typically cover public administration theory, public sector budgeting and financial management, organisational behaviour and human resource management in the public realm, ethics and public service values, and quantitative methods for policy analysis.

Students then move into applied and elective courses that reflect policy and management concentrations. Typical elective subjects include:

• Public budgeting and fiscal policy
• Program evaluation and performance measurement
• Nonprofit management and fundraising
• Local government administration and city management
• Environmental and natural resource policy
• Health policy and administration
• Grant writing and public procurement
• Advanced research methods and data analysis

The degree normally includes a practicum, internship or capstone project that places students with government agencies, nonprofits or consulting organisations to apply classroom learning to real-world problems. Students may also complete a policy research project under faculty supervision. Options for part-time study and evening classes are frequently available to accommodate working professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. Admissions decisions are based on the overall academic record, letters of recommendation, a personal statement outlining professional goals and fit with the programme, and a current CV. Relevant work or volunteer experience in public service, nonprofit organisations or policy settings is advantageous but not always required.

The programme may consider standardised test scores as part of the application; prospective students should consult the school’s admissions guidance to see whether tests are required or optional. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or approved exemptions and provide certified academic transcripts. Some applicants may be invited to an interview as part of the assessment process.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MPA work across a broad range of public service and civic sectors. Common career paths include:

• City, county and state government administration and policy roles (e.g. city manager’s office, policy analyst, department director)
• Federal agency positions and intergovernmental organisations
• Leadership and management roles in nonprofit organisations and foundations
• Programme and grant management, fundraising and development
• Policy research, evaluation and consulting in specialised areas such as health, environment or education
• Legislative staff and public affairs or community relations positions

The programme’s practicum and internship components, together with alumni and employer connections, support transitions into these roles and help build a professional network in the public and nonprofit sectors.

Why study at University of Delaware

The University of Delaware’s MPA is offered through a school with a strong focus on applied public policy and administration, emphasising experiential learning and practitioner expertise. The university’s regional location provides access to state and local government agencies, nonprofits and consulting firms, which supports internships and collaborative projects.

Students benefit from small cohort sizes, faculty who are active researchers and experienced practitioners, and specialised centres and initiatives that connect academic study to contemporary policy challenges. The programme’s flexible scheduling options and professional development resources make it suitable for both recent graduates and working professionals seeking career advancement in public service.