The Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree at the University of La Verne prepares professionals to serve their communities and organizations, including local, state, and national governments as well as nonprofit organizations. Our program emphasizes collaboration with public service leaders and alumni to develop innovative solutions for challenges in the public sector. Students receive career mentoring, professional networking, and opportunities for advancement in their public service careers.

To provide convenience and flexibility, the MPA program is available fully online and in a hybrid format at the Ontario campus.

Features and Benefits

Accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), the MPA program is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top graduate public affairs programs in Southern California. Features and benefits of the program include:

• personalized attention encourages active interaction among students and faculty;
• a focus on developing practical skills and promoting civic professionalism;
• a relevant core curriculum with a variety of concentration options to choose from;
• active learning through courses that include applied project opportunities;
• year-round coursework that allows students to start in the fall, spring, or summer;
• a team of highly competent faculty members who are dedicated to public service;
• a dedicated academic advisor who guides students through the program;
• extensive alumni network and active engagement in professional organizations;
• full access to library resources and career development services;
• tutoring and mentoring services provided by the Academic Success Center;
• financial assistance options to support students in their academic journey

Degree Specializations

Our MPA program offers degree specializations to address individual career needs. Students can choose a concentration from the listed below or suggest elective courses that align with their professional goals.

• Urban Management and Affairs
• Nonprofit Management
• Public Health
• Juris Doctor/MPA Dual Degree Program

Flexible class schedules for working professionals

Courses are 8 weeks long and utilize both in-person and online instruction to accommodate the schedules of working students.

Networking and Organizations

University of La Verne’s MPA program provides a wealth of networking opportunities, enabling students to establish connections with leaders in public service and our esteemed alumni. We take pride in our commitment to integrating students into professional associations and the practical aspects of public administration. Our program facilitates regional engagement, interaction with practitioners, and the acquisition of insights that prepare students for effective service post-graduation.

• We are one of only two university partners with the Municipal Management Association of Southern California (MMASC).
• We have established our own student chapter of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), offering our MPA students free membership and conference registration.
• We, students, alumni, and faculty, actively participate in the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) and host Student-Professional Dinner featuring elected and appointed officials.
• Women Leading Government (WLG).
• We sponsor an annual City Manager in Residence program and actively participate in the Women Leading Government (WLG).

Careers/Alumni Outcomes

After obtaining the Master of Public Administration degree, graduates will be equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in governments and nonprofit organizations. We ensure that graduates will become:

1. Leaders who are engaged and dedicated to enhancing public service
2. Change agents within organizational settings
3. Advocates within their communities and in policy-making processes

Click here to view Student Outcomes.