Master of Public Administration
November 1, 2025
January 12, 2026
Lead positive change with a Master of Public Administration
The online Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from The Ohio State University John Glenn College of Public Affairs, accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA), will equip you with the practical skills needed to succeed in today’s dynamic workforce while offering the flexibility to balance your education with your career.
The online MPA program focuses on developing the following core competencies:
- Gain the skills to lead and effectively manage public organizations efficiently and ethically.
- Learn to analyze complex public issues, develop evidence-based policies, and implement effective solutions.
- Master the use of data and analytics to inform strategic planning and problem-solving.
Additionally, you will have the opportunity to concentrate electives around your areas of interest such as management, nonprofits, or education policy. By combining rigorous coursework with real-world applications, our program prepares you to become a skilled and influential public servant.
Why pursue an MPA at Ohio State?
As a student at The Ohio State University John Glenn College of Public Affairs, you will join a vibrant community of public service leaders committed to helping you lead the change you are most passionate about. Through coursework and practical skills-based experience, our program empowers you to lead and manage public organizations effectively, actively shape public policy, and make data-driven decisions in dynamic environments. Additionally, lifelong learning is always available to you at the Glenn College. From podcasts and monthly events to conferences and a variety of professional development courses, the Glenn College is committed to supporting public servants throughout their career.
Supporting military students
If you’re military-affiliated and pursuing graduate studies at Ohio State, the John Glenn College of Public Affairs’ Service to Service program is here to guide you as you take on your next mission. This program provides tailored career resources, academic support, and mentorship opportunities to help you achieve your goals while advancing your career in public service.
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"Even if you don’t know what you want to do in the beginning, you will find something you enjoy and will leave the program feeling confident in your ability to succeed. The skillsets you gain in the MPA program will be applicable to anything you decide to do and is completely worth it for the remainder of your career, to set you up for success. "
Katie Rozsa MPA Grad -
"The MPA program has accelerated my growth in three major ways: innovation, partnerships, and systems leadership. I am grateful for the opportunities to learn from enthusiastic scholars who are innovating public policy and education."
Abby Ordillas MPA Student
Frequently Asked Questions
As an online MPA student, you will have a career advisor to help you navigate and personalize your career goals so that you feel confident about your future. They will assist you with your resume/cover letters, career planning, job search strategies, mock interviews and evaluating employment offers. Additionally, within the online format, you will have the opportunity to network with a diverse group of classmates from across the nation. Upon graduation you will also join a worldwide network of over 600,000 Ohio State graduates.
An MPA prepares individuals for leadership roles in government and nonprofit organizations. The curriculum emphasizes public policy, budgeting, and organizational management. Graduates often find careers in government agencies, consulting firms, nonprofits or advocacy groups. Conversely, an MPH focuses on improving population health through prevention and disease control. Core coursework includes epidemiology, biostatistics, and health education. MPH graduates frequently work in public health departments, healthcare organizations, non-profit health organizations or research institutions.
The MPA program is designed for early-career professionals or recent graduates seeking further education to advance their careers. It’s also ideal for those wanting to switch to the public or non-profit sectors. The MPA requires 52 credit hours and can be completed in 4 semesters full-time or 7 semesters part-time. The In-Career MA and MPAL programs are for working professionals with at least 3 years of relevant post-baccalaureate experience for eligibility. The In-Career MA is an in-person program for mid-career professionals, sharing the same core curriculum as the MPA but with a credit reduction due to work experience. It requires 38 credit hours and takes 5 semesters part-time. The MPAL is an online program focused on management and leadership, helping mid-career professionals advance their careers. It requires 32 credit hours and can be completed in 5 semesters part-time.
The choice between an MPA and an MBA ultimately depends on your career goals and aspirations, neither one is better than the other. While both degrees offer valuable skills and knowledge, they cater to different professional goals and aspirations.
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
An MPA equips individuals to create and work towards positive societal change. By understanding government structures and policy, graduates can effectively address complex challenges and improve public services. An MPA is designed for individuals interested in public service, policy analysis, and government administration. Graduates with MPAs often pursue careers in government agencies, nonprofits, think tanks, international organizations, and political campaigns.
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
An MBA is centered on business administration, management, and strategic thinking. MBA graduates typically pursue careers in corporate management, consulting, entrepreneurship, marketing, accounting, or finance.
The lines between public and private sectors are increasingly blurred. Many organizations, including nonprofits and government agencies, operate with businesses. As a result, there’s a growing demand for professionals with a blend of public and private sector skills. Ultimately, the best degree for you depends on your individual career goals and aspirations.
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Related Programs
Whether you’re exploring professional development opportunities or building a strong foundation for a pursuing master’s degree, our graduate certificates offer in-demand skills in a flexible format. 100% of credits transfer to our online Master of Public Administration and Leadership or Master of Public Administration program.
All graduate certificates require a bachelor’s degree for admission.
Advance public management skills and prepare for leadership roles. Learn more about the Public Management Graduate Certificate
Lead nonprofits to create meaningful change in your community. Learn more about the Nonprofit Management Graduate Certificate
Learn to skillfully navigate the federal policy environment. Learn more about the Federal Policy and Management Graduate Certificate.
Advance into administrative roles within criminal justice organizations. Learn more about the Criminal Justice Administration Graduate Certificate.
Navigate the complex legal and policy landscape of cybersecurity while implementing effective organizational strategies.
Learn more about the Cybersecurity Law, Policy and Management Graduate Certificate.
Academic Calendar
The MPA program offers both Spring and Autumn term enrollment. To enroll in the Spring term, please submit your application by the November deadline. For Autumn enrollment, the application deadline is in June.
Academic Calendar
The MPA program offers both Spring and Autumn term enrollment. To enroll in the Spring term, please submit your application by the November deadline. For Autumn enrollment, the application deadline is in June.
Admission Criteria
To be considered for this program, you must meet the following requirements:
- Bachelor’s or advanced degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum 3.0 GPA highly recommended. If you have a GPA under a 3.0, it is strongly encouraged to provide additional evidence of academic success.
- While the GRE is not required, applicants with GPAs below 3.0 may strengthen their applications with additional materials like GRE scores, letters of recommendation, or relevant coursework.
Students are expected to be familiar with basic concepts of statistics and economics, and knowledgeable about the workings of the U.S. government. Undergraduate courses in microeconomics, statistics and government are strongly recommended.
For your application, you will be required to submit:
- College transcript(s) from all institutions attended
- Statement of purpose
- Resume or CV
- 3 letters of recommendation
The Ohio State University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA).
SARA is a national initiative that increases student access to distance education courses and programs while maintaining compliance with state regulations. Institutions participating in SARA can offer educational opportunities in all 49 SARA member states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico without seeking individual approval in each state.
California is not a SARA member state, however, OSU may offer online courses and programs to students located in California under the California Private Post-Secondary Act of 2009.
The Application Process
Once you understand your program’s admission criteria, please note the application deadline. You’ll need a quiet space and a variety of materials for your application. To learn more, please see our Admissions page for the full process. Ready to Apply? Find your application here.
Career Outlook
With a growing need for effective governance, job opportunities are expanding in government agencies, nonprofits, and even private sector organizations that work closely with the government. Public administrator roles are essential in developing policies and managing resources in ways to best serve communities.
The Glenn College offers personalized career support and guidance to every student. Our dedicated career services specialist and faculty members can connect you with opportunities that fit your interests. Additionally, college mentorship programs pair students with working alumni who are committed to seeing Glenn College students succeed – in Ohio, Washington, and across the globe.
Top Occupations by Median Income
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate one or more administrative services of an organization, such as records and information management, mail distribution, and other office support services.
Work Activities
Prepare and review operational reports and schedules to ensure accuracy and efficiency. Set goals and deadlines for the department. Acquire, distribute and store supplies.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $64,740
- Mid Level: $108,390
- Senior Level: $200,010
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
6.2%
Related Careers
- Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants
- Facilities Managers
- First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers
- General and Operations Managers
- Project Management Specialists
Job Sectors
- Customer and Personal Service
- Administration and Management
- English Language
- Administrative
- Computers and Electronics
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities of an organization to ensure compliance with ethical or regulatory standards.
Work Activities
Report violations of compliance or regulatory standards to duly authorized enforcement agencies as appropriate or required. Identify compliance issues that require follow-up or investigation. Discuss emerging compliance issues to ensure that management and employees are informed about compliance reporting systems, policies, and practices.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $68,860
- Mid Level: $136,550
- Senior Level: $227,590
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
5.7%
Related Careers
- Compliance Officers
- Environmental Compliance Inspectors
- Management Analysts
- Regulatory Affairs Managers
- Regulatory Affairs Specialists
Job Sectors
- Law and Government
- English Language
- Administration and Management
- Customer and Personal Service
- Personnel and Human Resources
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate accounting, investing, banking, insurance, securities, and other financial activities of a branch, office, or department of an establishment.
Work Activities
Establish and maintain relationships with individual or business customers or provide assistance with problems these customers may encounter. Oversee the flow of cash or financial instruments. Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of workers in branches, offices, or departments of establishments, such as branch banks, brokerage firms, risk and insurance departments, or credit departments.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $86,490
- Mid Level: $161,700
- Senior Level:
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
16.5%
Related Careers
- Accountants and Auditors
- Credit Analysts
- Financial and Investment Analysts
- Loan Officers
- Personal Financial Advisors
Job Sectors
- Customer and Personal Service
- Administration and Management
- Economics and Accounting
- Administrative
- Mathematics
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities to solicit and maintain funds for special projects or nonprofit organizations.
Work Activities
Assign, supervise, and review the activities of fundraising staff. Compile or develop materials to submit to granting or other funding organizations. Conduct research to identify the goals, net worth, charitable donation history, or other data related to potential donors, potential investors, or general donor markets.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $73,700
- Mid Level: $123,480
- Senior Level: $216,660
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
5.9%
Related Careers
- Advertising and Promotions Managers
- Fundraisers
- Public Relations Managers
- Public Relations Specialists
- Social and Community Service Managers
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate the operations of public or private sector organizations, overseeing multiple departments or locations. Duties and responsibilities include formulating policies, managing daily operations, and planning the use of materials and human resources, but are too diverse and general in nature to be classified in any one functional area of management or administration, such as personnel, purchasing, or administrative services. Usually manage through subordinate supervisors. Excludes First-Line Supervisors.
Work Activities
Review financial statements, sales or activity reports, or other performance data to measure productivity or goal achievement or to identify areas needing cost reduction or program improvement. Direct and coordinate activities of businesses or departments concerned with the production, pricing, sales, or distribution of products. Direct administrative activities directly related to making products or providing services.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $47,420
- Mid Level: $102,950
- Senior Level:
Job Outlook
Bright
Related Careers
- Administrative Services Managers
- Chief Executives
- Facilities Managers
- First-Line Supervisors of Non-Retail Sales Workers
- Industrial Production Managers
Job Sectors
- Administration and Management
- Customer and Personal Service
- English Language
- Production and Processing
- Mathematics
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate human resources activities and staff of an organization.
Work Activities
Serve as a link between management and employees by handling questions, interpreting and administering contracts and helping resolve work-related problems. Advise managers on organizational policy matters, such as equal employment opportunity and sexual harassment, and recommend needed changes. Analyze and modify compensation and benefits policies to establish competitive programs and ensure compliance with legal requirements.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $83,790
- Mid Level: $140,030
- Senior Level:
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
6.5%
Related Careers
- Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists
- Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping
- Human Resources Specialists
- Management Analysts
- Training and Development Managers
Job Sectors
- Personnel and Human Resources
- Administration and Management
- English Language
- Law and Government
- Education and Training
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities designed to create or maintain a favorable public image or raise issue awareness for their organization or client.
Work Activities
Assign, supervise, and review the activities of public relations staff. Confer with labor relations managers to develop internal communications that keep employees informed of company activities. Design and edit promotional publications, such as brochures.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $78,880
- Mid Level: $138,520
- Senior Level:
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
6.9%
Related Careers
- Advertising and Promotions Managers
- Management Analysts
- Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists
- Marketing Managers
- Public Relations Specialists
What They Do
Examine budget estimates for completeness, accuracy, and conformance with procedures and regulations. Analyze budgeting and accounting reports.
Work Activities
Analyze monthly department budgeting and accounting reports to maintain expenditure controls. Provide advice and technical assistance with cost analysis, fiscal allocation, and budget preparation. Review operating budgets to analyze trends affecting budget needs.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $60,510
- Mid Level: $87,930
- Senior Level: $134,640
Job Outlook
Average
Projected Growth
3.9%
Related Careers
- Accountants and Auditors
- Financial Examiners
- Financial Managers
- Personal Financial Advisors
- Treasurers and Controllers
Job Sectors
- Economics and Accounting
- Mathematics
- English Language
- Administration and Management
- Administrative
What They Do
Conduct organizational studies and evaluations, design systems and procedures, conduct work simplification and measurement studies, and prepare operations and procedures manuals to assist management in operating more efficiently and effectively. Includes program analysts and management consultants.
Work Activities
Gather and organize information on problems or procedures. Confer with personnel concerned to ensure successful functioning of newly implemented systems or procedures. Analyze data gathered and develop solutions or alternative methods of proceeding.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $59,720
- Mid Level: $101,190
- Senior Level: $174,140
Job Outlook
Bright
Related Careers
- Business Intelligence Analysts
- Data Scientists
- Information Technology Project Managers
- Project Management Specialists
- Training and Development Managers
Job Sectors
- English Language
- Administration and Management
- Customer and Personal Service
- Mathematics
- Education and Training
National occupational information in Ohio State Online’s Career Outlook tool is sourced from O*NET Online and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median annual wage displayed to the right of each occupational title above is based on the BLS Employment Projections program. Outlook and percent change indicate projected growth or decline over the next 10 years.
Curriculum
The online master’s in public administration program will provide you with the knowledge and in-demand skills to excel in a variety of public sector roles. You will develop the ability to think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively while gaining a deep understanding of public administration principles.
Overview of the public policy process and the historical and contemporary context in which policy making and implementation are carried out in the United States at the federal, state and local levels.
Provides students an understanding of the legal foundations of public affairs. Students use legal reasoning to examine and analyze the constraints imposed on public policy making and program management and implementation by the legal environment.
Economic analysis applied to the problems of public policy selection and government management operations; efficiency criteria, market failure and public choice applied to administrative decision-making.
Survey/analysis of government fiscal activities; taxation principles, intergovernmental relations, fiscal problems; public sector budgeting; budgets as mechanism for planning/allocating/controlling resources; tools for program and results evaluation.
Learn to manage public sector organizations with a focus on the external environment: context of public sector organizations, their structure, how they operate; managing organizational performance, innovation, and change.
Students can take PUBAFRS 6050 or PUBAFRS 7533
Managerial Leadership in Public and Nonprofit Organizations with focus on internal operations, processes, and resources; human resource management, information technology; other aspects of internal capacity.
Provides students with analytical knowledge and tools necessary to acquire, manage and analyze data. Students learn probability and statistics to conduct analysis and evaluation and evaluate the quality of analyses conducted by others.
Equips students with knowledge and skills to evaluate public policies and programs. Students learn about different types of evaluations and research designs for conducting evaluations. Exposure to ethical considerations in conducting evaluations.
Management of financial resources is paramount to a nonprofit’s success. Designed for students interested in careers or volunteer roles in nonprofit management and current professionals in this area, this course covers how to review and analyze financial statements, develop and edit budgets, and requirements for audits – even if you are not a CPA or financial professional.
Students can take PUBAFRS 6050 or PUBAFRS 7533
Students integrate the knowledge and skills gained throughout the MA/MPA program by applying theory to practice through an in-depth policy or management analysis of a defined topic or a specific organization.
An opportunity to integrate and synthesize ideas and tools from previous coursework in a capacity building client-based project for a local nonprofit organization to solve a real nonprofit management problem.
Understanding Online Course Types
As you research the right online program for you, you likely will come across the terms “asynchronous” and “synchronous.” Learn what these terms mean and how they’re important to consider when understanding how a program will fit into your life.
Learn More
Program Faculty
Our faculty have extensive experience in government, nonprofit, and the private sector, and are dedicated to mentoring and guiding students in their career paths.
Todd Suddeth
Senior Lecturer
Dr. Suddeth is a senior lecturer at the John Glenn College of Public Affairs. He has held leadership roles at The Ohio State University, including directing the Student Life Multicultural Center and Liaison for DACA students in the Office Student Life. Dr. Suddeth offers training and consulting in cultural competence, leadership, and student engagement. He has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a master’s degree in Public Affairs and a doctoral degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs from The Ohio State University.
Tasha Perdue
Assistant Professor
Jim Landers
Associate Professor of Practice in Public Affairs, Enarson Fellow, Director of Graduate/Professional Studies
Testimonials
See what our students and alumni have to say about their experience at The Ohio State University.
Katie Rozsa, Public Relations Specialist, MPA'24
“As a graduate student working part-time as Constituent Aide at the Ohio House of Representatives in downtown Columbus, I was able to have the flexibility of going to school and bring a very unique and valuable skillset into work each day. I was able to apply what I was learning into my work and influence others to make positive changes.”
Testimonials
Testimonials
"I chose this program because I am passionate about serving others. I knew it was right for me because of its specific focus in service. I am proud of all of the leadership components I have applied to my current role. I have learned to understand others and lead by example to create an ethical environment."
"This program has helped me attain knowledgeable skills, and I have gained more experience outside of the classroom. However, public administration has allowed me to develop a leadership distinction within my discipline and a sense of social responsibility to bring into my future profession and community."
"The MPA program has accelerated my growth in three major ways: innovation, partnerships, and systems leadership. I am grateful for the opportunities to learn from enthusiastic scholars who are innovating public policy and education."
Tuition Fee Overview
Investing in your future with a higher education degree is one of the best investments you can make for your future success. At Ohio State, we know understanding your program’s cost is an important part of your decision-making process. Below are the tuition fees you can expect with your program. Estimates are based on the expenses typical of an Ohio State Online student, who would take 6 credit hours each semester as a part-time student or 8 credit hours each semester as a full-time student. Actual costs may vary.
| Tuition Fees | Per Credit Hour (unless otherwise noted) | Part-Time – Estimated Cost Per Semester | Full-Time – Estimated Cost Per Semester |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instructional Fee | $829.75 | $4,978.5 | $6,638 |
| General Fee | $32.63 | $195.78 | $261 |
| Distance Learning Fee | $100 (per semester) | $100 | $100 |
| Non-Resident Surcharge (if applicable) | $200.00 (per semester) | $200 | $200 |
Tuition fees are subject to change. The table above serves as a guide and not an official bursar’s bill. Full-Time costs are total tuition costs per semester.
Financial Aid Resource
Financial Aid Resource
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