Widener University

What you'll study

The MPA curriculum combines core public administration theory with applied skills in policy analysis, budgeting, management and ethics. Students typically take a mix of required core modules and elective specialisms, and complete a practicum or capstone project that applies classroom learning to a real public sector challenge.

• Core subjects: public administration theory, public policy and programme evaluation, public budgeting and finance, research methods and statistics for public managers, administrative law and ethics, organisational behaviour in the public sector.
• Skills and methods: policy analysis, cost‑benefit analysis, grant writing, strategic planning, performance measurement, data analysis for decision making, leadership and human resource management.
• Electives and pathways: students can select electives to focus on areas such as nonprofit management, urban and regional planning, health services administration, homeland security/emergency management, or environmental policy depending on availability and interest.
• Practical requirement: a supervised practicum, internship or applied capstone typically concludes the degree, enabling students to work with a government agency, nonprofit or public‑private partnership on a policy, management or evaluation project.
• Delivery and format: Widener offers flexible delivery options, including day, evening and hybrid/online courses to accommodate full‑time students and working professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Typical admissions materials include a completed application, a statement of purpose outlining professional goals and reasons for pursuing an MPA, a current résumé or CV, and academic transcripts. The programme often considers relevant professional experience in public service or the nonprofit sector as a positive factor.

• Notional academic threshold: a bachelor’s degree with a satisfactory academic record (specific GPA requirements vary by intake and campus).
• Supporting documents: statement of purpose, résumé/CV, official transcripts, and at least one academic or professional letter of recommendation.
• Standardised tests: GRE/GMAT requirements are commonly waived for applicants with significant professional experience; check the admissions guidance for current practice.
• International applicants: proof of English language proficiency and certified academic credential evaluation may be required.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MPA are prepared for leadership and management roles across the public, nonprofit and related private sectors. The programme emphasises transferable skills—policy analysis, budgeting, evaluation and leadership—that employers value in many public service contexts.

• Typical roles: policy analyst, city or county manager, budget analyst, programme manager, nonprofit director, grant manager, public affairs specialist, and emergency management coordinator.
• Employers: local, state and federal government agencies, nonprofit organisations and foundations, healthcare systems, public utilities, consulting firms and public‑private partnerships.
• Progression: graduates frequently move into mid‑ and senior‑level management, appointed public positions, or specialist policy roles; some pursue doctoral study in public administration, public policy or related fields.

Why study at Widener University

Widener's MPA emphasises practical learning and local engagement. The university’s location near Philadelphia and within driving distance of state government centres provides strong opportunities for internships, practicum placements and networking with public sector employers.

• Practitioner faculty: courses are taught by faculty with public sector experience and by practitioners who bring current policy and management challenges into the classroom.
• Applied focus: the practicum/capstone requirement and close ties with regional public agencies help students build a portfolio of real‑world work and establish professional contacts.
• Flexible study: part‑time, evening and hybrid options support working professionals seeking career advancement without leaving employment.
• Career support: access to university career services, employer events and alumni networks helps with job search, internships and professional development in the public and nonprofit sectors.