Master of Public Affairs

Since 1972, the MPA program at Indiana University South Bend has built a reputation around the training and educating of leaders in public organizations. The program is defined by a tradition of rigorous study, innovative research, and a strong commitment to public service. With more than 700 graduates, most remaining in the Michiana area, our alumni can be found in positions of administration across the region. Accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), this graduate degree program equips students with the ability to analyze contemporary political, economic, and social issues in the context of the public service arena where they specialize.

Degree completion typically requires 39 credit hours, including 12 hours devoted to the student’s area of graduate degree concentration. Professional certificates (15 hours) are available in each concentration area. The Master's degree program can be completed in as little as two years or longer, if desired.

Our Programs

Fast Facts

  • Attend convenient evening classes that accommodate the schedules of working adult students. Programs also offer select online classes.
  • Progress toward a degree Over 60% of part-time students graduate with an MPA in 3 years.
  • Save with affordable public university tuition on a high-quality graduate degree program.
  • Complete a capstone project; no master’s thesis is required.
  • Earn up to 1-6 credit hours for professional work experience gained through an off-campus practicum or internship.
  • Join a cohort of students with similar professional and academic interests.
  • Work closely with professors in intimately sized classes that average just 15 students.
  • Study with professors who hold the highest degree awarded in their field and with local working professionals who are well experienced in your area of specialization.
I enrolled in the MPA Governmental Administration and Policy master’s program and it has provided exactly the education I need. I use what I’ve learned every day on my job as the Elkhart County Plan Director. The program has helped me advance in my career and has taught me to think critically, write well and understand government policy on a deeper level. The total experience has been extraordinary from the class content and professors to the relationships I’ve made with other professionals from the area."Chris Godlewski, MPA Graduate/ Director of Planning and Development, Elkhart County

Current Student Resources

Already a Master of Public Affairs student? These resources are just for you.

Current student Resources

Scholarships

Scholarships can play a very important part in making your college education affordable and attainable. We encourage you to begin your search for scholarships early, pay close attention to deadlines and ask questions along the way.

View available scholarships

Stay Connected

More than 700 graduates of the MPA program at Indiana University South Bend are working in the Michiana area and around the world. Although graduation completes your degree, it does not finish your professional development. The Alumni Association at Indiana University South Bend offers a number of services that may be of interest to you and the Department of Political Science provides a opportunities for networking, career advancement, and getting involved with the program.

Please let us know of changes in your contact information and to keep us up-to-date on your professional and personal achievements so that we can celebrate with you.

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