The MPA can be completed in five quarters and requires completion of 70 credits including 51 required core competency credits focusing on organization and human resource management, methodology and data management, policy and fiscal analysis and strategic leadership. The remaining 19 credits are electives and/or practicum hours designed to enrich understanding of particular aspects of public service

Ohio University undergraduates can earn both a Bachelor’s degree and an MPA in five years through the 4 + 1 option. See the "Other Options" tab for details.

Follow these links for the MPA program procedures and requirements

• requirements
• application process
• coursework
• practicum
• internship options
• portfolio or thesis
• financial aid
• careers and job placement

Since 2002, professionals in government, nonprofit and service organizations have been earning executive MPA degrees in just two years, by collaborating online and attending residential class meetings.

The program combines the convenience of online learning with intensive classroom interaction, one weekend a month, on Ohio University's Athens campus. The monthly residencies consist of class meetings beginning at 6 p.m. Friday, 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Saturday, and 9 a.m. Sunday. Three residencies are held each academic quarter. All courses are led by Ohio University faculty.

By combining high academic standards with a convenient schedule, we have created an executive MPA to meet your needs.

Details on the Ohio Executive MPA, including a demonstration of how the user-friendly online component works, may be found at http://www.ouwb.ohiou.edu/mpa/

Evening Program

For those already employed in government service, there is a part-time evening program in Athens. Classes are scheduled on weeknights from 6-10 p.m., meeting once a week.

Part-time students may complete the 70-hour program by taking a minimum of one course each quarter for up to fourteen consecutive quarters. Students can be admitted to the program during any quarter. Evening MPA students must complete a professional portfolio in addition to their coursework.

4+1 Option

OU Undergraduates may complete a Master of Public Administration in four quarters if they enroll in core MPA courses during the senior year.  See the Senior for Graduate Credit Option in the OU Catalog for eligibility requirements.

Spring of Senior Year

Organization Theory* (5)

Summer

Public Personnel Administration* (5)
Elective (5)

Fall

Intro to Public Administration (5)
Public Budgeting* (5)
Elective (5)
Writing Workshop (1)
Public Service Practicum I (2)

Winter

Research Methods (5)
Financial Management (5)
Public Service Practicum II (3)
Elective (5)

Spring

Capstone Seminar in Public Administration (5)
Elective (5)
Elective (5)

Summer

Public Service Practicum IV (2)

* Note: OU Graduates who have completed 400-level versions of core MPA requirements (512, 514 and 586) may substitute electives for the mixed sections.