Public Administration

Online MPA Degree

ETSU Online

Empowering Future Leaders

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) is a non-business degree that offers an outstanding education for those seeking an exciting career in the public or non-profit sector. The program offers opportunities to learn and connect with faculty practitioners and provides a curriculum built to provide first-hand experience.

The MPA is designed for working professionals looking to further their education. It is perfect for those ready to advance their career opportunities without the traditional classroom experience.

Program information including curriculum and graduation requirements can be found in the ETSU Graduate Catalog.

Job Opportunities

The MPA is a highly marketable degree for entry into the fields of city management, community development, non-profit administration, and more. The demand for trained public and non-profit managers has steadily increased, both in this region and beyond. Public administration jobs can be found in nonprofit organizations, private businesses, and local, state, and federal government. Examples can be found in each industry:

  • Local, state and federal government agencies – state and city government, Department of Transportation, Department of Economic and Community Department etc.
  • Nonprofit organizations – Youth Corps, Salvation Army, United Way, etc.
  • Private Business – Consulting businesses, human resources, etc.
  • Career Outlook and Income Trends

    With a larger than average job growth rate and healthy salary projections, the following are examples of more specific career opportunities for MPA professionals:

    • Fundraising Manager
    • International Aid
    • Development Worker
    • City Manager
    • Public Administration Consultant
    • Budget Analyst
    • Tax Examiner

The video below features students and a faculty member. See what they have to say about the MPA degree program!

Student Spotlight

Dana Walker, MPA Student, poses in front of a white wall.

"If continuing your education is something you've wanted for yourself but you have barriers in your way, ETSU online programming can truly remove many of those barriers. You can find the quiet time in your life to learn, thrive, and develop the best version of yourself. Professionally, I have found myself in spaces making decisions that I never thought I'd be able to and it would not have been possible for me otherwise because I did not have the support to go to school in person, at night, or on weekends."

Dana Walter, MPA Student

Steps to Apply

  • Step 1 - Create your ETSU Application Account

    Step 1   Create your ETSU Application Account by choosing the "Sign Up" option

    Create your ETSU Application Account

  • Step 2 - Sign into the ETSU Application Portal

    Step 2  Sign into the ETSU Application Portal and select "Start a New Application"

    Sign in

  • Step 3 - Complete the Remaining Fields

    Step 3   Choose "Graduate," select your student type (domestic or international), select "Master's," term, then choose  Public Administration and complete the remainder of the form.

    select domestic/international

    select certificate

Apply Today!

Take me to the application portal

Cost

Credits to complete this program: 36 credit hours

Fixed Rate, All Materials included

$600 per credit hour* = $21,600 total program cost*

*These totals include tuition, fees, and materials for the course, and is guaranteed to not change for 3 years.

The costs associated with attending ETSU can include both direct and indirect costs. Please review ETSU's Cost of Attendance for more details. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What accreditations apply to this program?

    East Tennessee State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist, and doctoral degrees. East Tennessee State University also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of East Tennessee State University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC's website  (www.sacscoc.org).


  • Does my undergraduate degree have to be related to this field? 

    No. While some background in this field can be helpful, it is not required.

  • Does this program require the GRE?

    Yes, the GRE is required. This requirement may be waived, however, for students who have already received a JD or terminal degree such Ph.D./Ed.D.

  • Are the courses for this program asynchronous or synchronous? 

    This program is online asynchronous, allowing students more freedom with how and where they complete their degree. 

  • Are there any on-campus requirements?

    No. However, there is an optional welcome event on campus.


  • Does this program require an internship? 

    This online program does not require an internship.

  • What is the time to completion?

    Full-time students typically complete this program in 20 months.

    Part-time students typically complete this program in 30 months. 

  • When can I start?

    Students may start in the Fall, Spring, or Summer terms. 

  • Are scholarships available?

    Students are encouraged to visit the Paying for Graduate School website for information regarding ETSU graduate scholarships and other financial resources.