University of North Florida

What you'll study

The MPA curriculum combines core public administration theory with applied skills in budgeting, policy analysis, human resource management and organisational behaviour. Students take a set of core modules that establish foundations in public management, research methods and ethics, then personalise their studies through electives and applied projects.

• Core modules: public administration theory and practice, quantitative and qualitative research methods, public budgeting and financial management, public policy analysis, public sector ethics and law.
• Electives and focus areas: students choose from elective topics such as strategic management, grant writing and fund-raising, programme evaluation, nonprofit management, community and economic development, emergency management, and health policy administration.
• Applied learning: the programme emphasises experiential learning through internships, practicum placements with local government or non-profit organisations, and a culminating capstone project or professional portfolio that integrates coursework with real-world problems.
• Delivery and structure: courses are offered in a mix of daytime, evening and online formats to accommodate full-time and part-time students. The programme typically allows flexible pacing so students can complete the degree while working.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Typical admission requirements include:

• Official transcripts demonstrating satisfactory undergraduate performance; a minimum cumulative GPA is normally expected, with applicants below that threshold considered on a case-by-case basis.
• A current résumé or curriculum vitae outlining relevant work or volunteer experience.
• A personal statement or statement of purpose describing professional goals and reasons for pursuing an MPA.
• Letters of recommendation, commonly one to three, attesting to academic potential and professional qualities.
• Standardised tests (such as the GRE) may be optional or required for some applicants; check the programme admissions guidance for current testing policy.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through accepted tests or equivalent qualifications and submit additional documentation as required for immigration compliance.

Career prospects

Graduates of the UNF MPA enter diverse roles across public, non-profit and quasi-public sectors. The degree prepares students for leadership and analytical positions that require management skills, policy competence and an understanding of public finance.

• Local and regional government: city manager offices, municipal programme directors, budget analysts, planning and community development roles.
• State and federal agencies: policy analyst, administrative officer, regulatory affairs specialist.
• Non-profit sector: executive director, development and fundraising manager, programme coordinator, evaluation specialist.
• Healthcare and social services: public health programme administrator, clinic operations manager, grant and compliance officer.
• Consulting and research organisations: public policy consultant, evaluator, research analyst.

Why study at University of North Florida

The University of North Florida offers an MPA with strong regional connections to municipal government, county agencies and a large non-profit community in Jacksonville and the surrounding region. The programme emphasises applied learning and professional development, enabling students to secure internships and practicum placements with local partners.

• Location advantages: proximity to a large metropolitan area provides diverse internship and employment opportunities across public administration disciplines.
• Practical focus: the curriculum blends theory with hands-on projects and capstone experiences designed to build immediately applicable skills.
• Flexible delivery: course scheduling and online options accommodate working professionals and help students balance study with career commitments.
• Faculty and network: faculty with practitioner experience and established relationships with local agencies support mentorship and professional networking.