USC’s Master of Public Administration online, which delivers classes face-to-face through our videoconferencing platform, will equip you to enter or advance within your field. You will study topics like:
- Policy and program evaluation
- Public financial management and budgeting
- Urban planning and social policy
- Local government and nonprofit management
Our MPA online curriculum focuses on two areas of managerial competency: (1) institutions and organizations and (2) analytics. Within these areas, you will combine core courses with elective coursework and with two certificate options, the curriculum is designed to allow maximum flexibility so you can tailor your education to your career goals.
Master of Public Administration Online At A Glance
When you earn your master’s in public administration online from USC Price, you’ll be equipped with the sound management, analytical and policy-making skills you need to thrive in a variety of public administration roles.
- 40 Units (41 for pre-service)
- Ranked #4 public affairs school
- Live online classes taught by USC Price’s esteemed faculty
- Complete in 24 months or less
- Designed for working professionals
- Two certificates available:
– Public Policy
– City and County Management - 2 On-campus residencies
- 1 Capstone
- Join the Price alumni network
- Scholarships available
- GRE/GMAT not required
Discover USC’s Master of Public Administration online.
Two Certificates Available
As a student, you may select electives to develop professional expertise and pursue a certificate in either Public Policy or City and County Management. Each certificate can be completed within the 40 total units (41 for pre-service students) of the degree program.
Public Policy. The USC Price Certificate in Public Policy exposes students to policy issues of global interest, while fostering analytical skills built around the most forward-looking methodologies useful for advocacy, legislative impact, government policy setting and implementation across a spectrum of institutions.
City and County Management. The USC Price Certificate in City/County Management is designed for students interested in acquiring the foundational training to advance a career in public service leadership. Working with top faculty and mentors, students gain professional skills and knowledge to achieve career aspirations managing and leading at the forefront of change.
Explore USC Price’s MPA online program details.
Career Outcomes
The field of public administration includes a wide range of career paths and job possibilities — both in and beyond the public sector. By earning your Master of Public Administration, you will build the foundation you need to pursue these paths with skills in policy and program evaluation, financial management and budgeting, and policy development.
Our MPA online alumni have found success in a number of roles and sectors:
Where Our Online Alumni Work
- 30% – Nonprofit Domestic
- 27% – Private Sector
- 23% – City/County/Local Government
- 13% – State/Provincial/Regional Government
- 4% – Federal Government
- 3% – International Government/NGO
Top Fields of Employment for MPA Online Graduates
- Government Administration
- Education Administration
- Consulting
- Nonprofit Organizational Management
- Philanthropy
Capstone Residencies
At USC Price, we know that building hands-on skills and cultivating real-world connections are just as important as being able to attend courses online, and a critical part of the learning process. To that end, our curriculum includes a capstone project at the end of the program and two in-person residencies.
Learn more about the MPA online program.