Pursue your passion for public service with a highly respected graduate degree from Villanova University. As a student in the online MPA degree program, you’ll gain a solid foundation of core competencies through highly interactive courses that focus on strategic planning and management in the public and nonprofit sectors. The mission of Villanova’s MPA program is to develop ethical, intelligent and creative leaders who want to make a difference in their community. As a part of this online program, students will have equal access, when compared to on campus students, to Villanova’s accomplished faculty and comprehensive course curriculum.
Villanova continually seeks to provide its potential students with a reliable indication of quality and value when it comes to their MPA program, which is why it is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA). NASPAA accreditation shows their support for student learning outcomes and program improvement by requiring programs to show their contributions to advancing the knowledge, research and practice of public service.
Once enrolled in the MPA program, you will have the option to choose a specialization that will allow you to focus on a specific area of interest. Choosing from one of the offered specializations will not only allow you to narrow your area of study while earning your MPA degree, but you will also be earning a graduate certificate in whatever specialization you choose. Choose from these two specializations and earn your MPA degree and graduate certificate simultaneously:
Villanova also gives you the option to earn a graduate certificate as a standalone credential in three important areas: Public Administration, Nonprofit Management or City Management. If you’re not interested in enrolling in the full MPA program, all three graduate certificates give you valuable skills and knowledge you can apply immediately at work:
With Villanova's MPA program, you'll learn:
Applicants must possess a BA or BS degree from an accredited university and have at least three years of relevant work experience. Ideal candidates include individuals experienced in the public, nonprofit, military or private sectors who want to develop the comprehensive knowledge and skills required to excel within a public service position.
Villanova alumni receiving an MPA degree have gone on to become successful leaders in public service and in nonprofit organizations, including roles as township manager, policy manager, city manager, police lieutenant and major, emergency services executive manager and fire chief.
Academic policies for the Human Resource Development and Public Administration graduate programs offered through the Office of Graduate Studies at Villanova University are available here.
Click here for information on Villanova’s campus-based Master of Public Administration program.
* Application process required.
Students can only use courses completed to fulfill requirements of one degree and one certificate program. Students cannot earn more than one certificate.
