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Wondering whether a master’s degree in public administration might be right for you? Contact our office to ask questions or set up a conversation with one of our faculty.
Phone: 530-898-5301
Email: politicalscience@csuchico.edu
Want to create positive change in your community and workplace? Students who pursue a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree are primed to become effective leaders at government, public service, and nonprofit organizations.
Public service jobs are in demand not only because they provide rewarding opportunities to impact lives, but also because they represent diverse responsibilities in growing sectors. An MPA degree is considered a top credential in the public and nonprofit sectors. Designed with working professionals in mind, an MPA from Chico State offers a schedule that fits your life while you master coursework in public policy, business management and finance
The Master of Public Administration offers a general option, as well as options in health administration and criminal justice. The mission of the program is to develop and enhance the theoretical and practical understanding, knowledge, and skills of current and future managers in public service with particular emphasis on the North State region.
The general MPA readies you for high-impact roles in government, the nonprofit sector, and beyond. Immerse yourself in a curriculum that covers leadership strategies, ethical decision-making, and effective management across various organizations.
Students in this option gain a comprehensive understanding of how the criminal justice system works and are equipped to work and lead effectively within the various fields of law, criminal justice, and the penal system.
Students in this option are empowered with the rigorous academic skills, practical experience, and multi-disciplinary studies to meet the public health challenges of the 21st century.
A wide range of career opportunities are available in public administration, and having an MPA clearly elevates the attractiveness of an applicant to the employer for such positions. Our alumni go on to work in some of the most impactful public sector agencies in national, state, and local government, as well as globally. Recent graduates work for: CalTrans, the FBI, U.S. Department of Defense, North Valley Community Foundation, California Department of Rehabilitation, CalFresh, Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, and United Way, as well as for the cities of San Diego, Sacramento, and San Francisco.
Jobs are plentiful for those with MPA, and career advancement is likely.
Job growth forecast for social and community services managers
Job growth forecast for economists
Job growth forecast for urban and regional planners
I’m glad I chose Chico State because it was so great for my career in general. I can’t wait to see where I go next and all the next opportunities.
Our alumni go on to work in some of the most impactful public sector agencies at all levels of government. Recent graduates work for CalTrans, Eisenhower Health, the FBI, U.S. Department of Defense, North Valley Community Foundation, California Department of Rehabilitation, CalFresh, Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, and United Way.
Our internship opportunities and professionalism workshops lead to stellar job placement rates for our graduates.
Many students as teaching assistants for undergraduate courses in “Research methods” and “American Government” while pursuing their MPA.
The program's MPA Professional Association provides an opportunity for current students to network with public sector alumni and receive mentorship.
Please review the FAQ below if you are ready to earn your MPA and find yourself longing to create policies that are more effective and fair, aiming to enhance the welfare of communities, passionate about conducting research to generate evidence-based solutions, or aspiring to be part of an intelligent community
All prospective students must first apply for graduate admissions through Cal State Apply. Supplementary materials will either be collected electronically via Cal State Apply or sent directly to the program department.
Fall: May-1 (April-1 for international students)
Spring: November-1 (October-1 for international applicants)
Charles Turner
530-898-6489
ccturner@csuchico.edu
Graduate students can qualify for traditional financial aid by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADAA).
California State University, Chico, provides merit and scholarship awards to deserving students for graduate studies, and many go unfilled. Scholarships are provided based on a variety of criteria, including academic merit, financial need, participation in clubs and activities, volunteer and community involvement, major and career goals, etc.
Most students who apply haven’t majored in public administration.
Successful applicants generally have taken at least one course in research methods and at least one course in institutions of American government. But students without these required courses may be accepted pending completion of these courses during their first semester in the program. Students with work experience in public administration, or those who can otherwise articulate a clear rationale for pursuing an MPA, are highly valued.
The MA in public administration is a 36- to 37-unit program that can be completed in two years. Students also have the option of attending part time, in which case the program can be completed in three years.
Some students may take longer due to personal circumstances, which may lead to one or more semesters of leave or reduced course load.
Wondering whether a master’s degree in public administration might be right for you? Contact our office to ask questions or set up a conversation with one of our faculty.
Phone: 530-898-5301
Email: politicalscience@csuchico.edu