Executive Master of Public Administration
Program Description
The Executive MPA Program (EMPA) is a curriculum uniquely designed to meet the growing demand for mid-career professionals in the public sector who wish to pursue an EMPA degree. The program is conveniently offered online and provides a focus on public policy. The EMPA program combines the advanced skill concepts of an executive master of public administration program and prepares administrators to lead and manage organizations in the area of public service. Upon completion of the EMPA program, graduates will:
- Demonstrate a balance inventory of conceptual, quantitative and professional skills.
- Demonstrate the ability to utilize information technology and systems for effective decision-making and communications.
- Demonstrate the ability to utilize problem solving strategies and analytical competencies relevant to management positions.
- Demonstrate a greater appreciation for workplace diversity, ethical issues facing the public sector today, and the challenges of the global institutions.
Teaching Methods
The program is delivered online and is administered through the Blackboard Academic Suites and Course Compass e-learning software. These platforms include live chats, online lectures, virtual classrooms, and teleconferencing capabilities.
Program Structure
The basic requirements for the EMPA degree are as follows: EMPA students must complete 36 credit hours for the Master of Public Administration degree, usually over a 16-month period of full-time study. The EMPA degree is separate and distinct from the regular Master of Public Administration degree.
Admission Criteria
The EMPA program seeks highly motivated, high-achieving students who have already demonstrated proof of working in the public sector. Prospective students must first apply for admission through the Graduate School, where they choose the EMPA program. Applicants are then referred to the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs for acceptance.
Applicants for admission to graduate standing in the Executive Master of Public Administration program must submit:
- Evidence of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution;
- An official transcript of all undergraduate course work;
- At least three (3) years of significant experience in the area of management or supervision;
- A statement of purpose;
- Two letters of recommendation; and
- A current professional résumé.
Degree Requirements
The requirements for the Executive Master of Public Administration are summarized below:
- Completion of thirty-six (36) credit hours. The courses are offered in a lock-step sequence called cohorts. All classes in the lock-step sequence must be successfully mastered by each EMPA student.
- At the commencement of the EMPA program, each student will prepare a degree plan in consultation with his or her advisor.
- Enrollment and satisfactory performance in course PAD 710 Capstone.
- Fulfillment of general requirements for graduation as outlined by The Graduate School.
eMPA Course Requirements Curriculum Summary
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| PAD 500 | Theory & Practice | 3 |
| PAD 501 | Leadership & Decision Making | 3 |
| PAD 502 | Research Meth In Pub Adm | 3 |
| PAD 503 | Quantitative Methods I | 3 |
| PAD 507 | Organization Behavior & Theory | 3 |
| PAD 620 | The Policy Making Process | 3 |
| PAD 622 | Science, Tech & Pub Policy | 3 |
| PAD 631 | Gov Budgeting & Financial Mgmt | 3 |
| PAD 650 | Intergovernmental Relations | 3 |
| PAD 660 | Com Pub Admin West Nations | 3 |
| PAD 705 | Topical Seminar | 3 |
| PAD 710 | Capstone | 3 |
| Total Hours | 36 | |