Masters in Public Administration (M.P.A.)

Entry requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Requirements:

• Applicants must have completed a recognized undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent) is required. This translates to approximately 60% or above in the grading system.

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 80.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105.

3. Standardized Tests:

• GRE: A minimum GRE score of 292 is required.

California State University, Fresno, is committed to supporting the academic aspirations of international students by offering various scholarships and financial aid opportunities. These scholarships help ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education in the United States. 

1. International Student Scholarship: Fresno State offers merit-based scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and may cover a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Dean's Graduate Medal: This scholarship is awarded to the top graduate student from each academic college at Fresno State. It recognizes outstanding academic achievement and contributions to the college.

3. President's Graduate Medal: The President's Graduate Medal is the highest honor for a graduate student at Fresno State. It is awarded to a graduate student who has demonstrated exceptional scholarship, leadership, and service.

4. Graduate Equity Fellowship: The Graduate Equity Fellowship is designed to support underrepresented and economically disadvantaged graduate students. It provides financial assistance and mentoring to help students succeed in their academic pursuits.

5. Athletic Scholarships: Fresno State offers athletic scholarships to talented student-athletes. These scholarships are typically awarded to individuals who excel in specific sports and contribute to the university's athletic programs.

6. External Scholarships: International students can also explore external scholarship opportunities, including those offered by government agencies, private organizations, and foundations in their home countries.

7. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Fresno State may offer scholarships to graduate students in specific fields of study. These scholarships often have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

8. Fulbright Scholarships: Fresno State participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships for international students to study, teach, or conduct research in the United States. Applicants can apply for Fulbright scholarships through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in their home country.

9. Cultural and Exchange Program Scholarships: Fresno State may offer scholarships to international students participating in cultural exchange programs or partnership agreements with specific universities and organizations.

10. Research and Teaching Assistantships: Graduate students may have opportunities to work as research or teaching assistants, which often come with a stipend and/or tuition remission.

Tips for Scholarship Application:

• Applicants should pay close attention to scholarship application deadlines and ensure that all required documents are submitted on time.
• Strong academic performance, letters of recommendation, a well-written personal statement, and a demonstrated commitment to community involvement and leadership can enhance scholarship application chances.

Graduates of the M.P.A. program at California State University, Fresno, are well-equipped for a wide range of rewarding career opportunities in public service, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and the public sector.  

1. Public Administrator: Graduates can pursue careers as public administrators in local, state, or federal government agencies, managing public programs, budgets, and personnel.

2. Policy Analyst: Policy analysts research and analyze public policy issues, providing recommendations to government officials, nonprofit organizations, and advocacy groups.

3. City Manager/Town Administrator: City managers and town administrators oversee municipal operations, implementing policies and managing budgets.

4. Nonprofit Manager: Nonprofit managers lead nonprofit organizations, overseeing program development, fundraising, and community engagement.

5. Legislative Analyst: Legislative analysts work with legislators, providing research and analysis to inform the policymaking process.

6. Human Resources Manager: Human resources managers in the public sector manage personnel matters, recruitment, and workforce development.

7. Environmental Planner: Environmental planners focus on land use and environmental policies, addressing issues like sustainability and conservation.

8. Budget Analyst: Budget analysts in government agencies manage budgets, financial planning, and resource allocation.

9. Emergency Management Specialist: These specialists coordinate disaster response and preparedness efforts at local, state, and federal levels.

10. Public Health Administrator: Public health administrators oversee public health programs, responding to health crises and promoting community well-being.

11. Urban Planner: Urban planners work on community development projects, addressing issues related to zoning, transportation, and land use.

12. Economic Development Specialist: Economic development specialists promote economic growth and development within communities.

13. Intergovernmental Relations Specialist: These specialists facilitate communication and cooperation between different levels of government.

14. Social Services Manager: Social services managers oversee social programs and services that support vulnerable populations.

15. Consultant: Graduates can work as consultants, providing expertise to public agencies, nonprofits, and private firms on public policy and administration issues.