Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.)

1. Academic Qualifications:

• A completed undergraduate degree: International postgraduate applicants should hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.  
• Minimum GPA: UIS typically requires a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale.  

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 is required, with no individual band score below 5.5.
• TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 79 is required.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 50 is accepted.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105 is accepted.

The University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) is dedicated to supporting international students in their pursuit of higher education. To make education more accessible, UIS offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to eligible international students. 

1. International Student Scholarships: UIS provides merit-based scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and can significantly reduce the cost of tuition. The availability and amount of these scholarships may vary each year.

2. CBA International Student Scholarships: The College of Business and Management (CBA) at UIS offers scholarships for international students pursuing business-related degrees. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and may cover a portion of tuition costs.

3. UIS Foundation Scholarships: The UIS Foundation offers a range of scholarships for both domestic and international students. These scholarships may be based on various criteria, including academic performance, leadership, and financial need. International students are encouraged to explore and apply for these opportunities.

4. Graduate Assistantships: UIS offers graduate assistantship positions that provide students with a stipend and often include a tuition waiver. Graduate assistantships involve assisting professors with research, teaching, or administrative tasks. These positions are available in various academic departments.

5. External Scholarships: UIS encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities from organizations, foundations, and government agencies in their home countries. These scholarships can help fund their education at UIS.

6. Fulbright Program: UIS participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships for international students pursuing graduate degrees in the United States. Eligibility and application procedures for the Fulbright Program can be found on the official Fulbright website.

7. Assistantship Opportunities: Apart from graduate assistantships, international students may find part-time employment opportunities on campus, which can help offset living expenses while gaining valuable work experience.

8. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at UIS may offer scholarships or assistantships specific to their programs. These opportunities can vary widely, so students should inquire within their respective departments.

It's important for international students to review the specific eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and requirements for each scholarship opportunity. UIS encourages early applications and ensures transparency in the scholarship selection process.

To apply for scholarships at UIS, international students typically need to complete the scholarship application form and provide supporting documents, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Additionally, demonstrating English language proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS may be required.

Graduates of the University of Illinois Springfield's Master of Public Administration program are well-prepared to pursue a wide range of impactful and rewarding career opportunities in the public and nonprofit sectors.  

1. Public Administration: Graduates can work in various levels of government, including local, state, and federal agencies, in roles such as city manager, budget analyst, program manager, or policy advisor.

2. Nonprofit Sector: Career opportunities in nonprofit organizations include positions as executive directors, program managers, fundraising managers, and public relations specialists.

3. Policy Analysis: Graduates may choose careers in policy analysis, where they assess the effectiveness of government programs, propose policy changes, and work with policymakers to develop solutions to societal challenges.

4. Local Government Leadership: M.P.A. alumni can pursue leadership roles in local government, including city and county administrators, ensuring efficient and effective municipal services.

5. Consulting: Opportunities exist in consulting firms specializing in public and nonprofit sectors, where graduates can advise clients on management, policy, and organizational improvement.

6. International Development: For those interested in global issues, careers in international development organizations and agencies are possible, focusing on global policy, humanitarian aid, and sustainable development.

7. Academia: Graduates can pursue doctoral studies and academic careers, contributing to public administration research and education.

8. Advocacy and Lobbying: Some alumni may work in advocacy groups and lobbying organizations, advocating for specific policy changes and representing the interests of diverse constituencies.

9. Environmental Policy: Specializations in environmental policy and administration can lead to careers in environmental agencies and organizations, addressing critical environmental challenges.

10. Public Finance: Opportunities in public finance, including budgeting and financial management, are available in government agencies and financial consulting firms.