Masters of Public Administration

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees: US$75

Academic Requirements:

1. Bachelor's Degree: Student should hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. This degree should be relevant to the postgraduate program Student intend to pursue.

2. Academic Achievement: Student should have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or the equivalent, which translates to approximately 60% and above.

English Language Proficiency Requirements:

1. IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7.0 with no individual band score less than 6.5 is  required.

2. TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 88 is accepted.

3. DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 115 or higher is required.

4. PTE (Pearson Test of English): Some programs may accept a minimum score of 65 or higher.

Wichita State University (WSU) offers several scholarships to international students to help them pursue their academic goals. These scholarships recognize academic achievement, leadership potential, and contributions to the WSU community. 

1. International Student Merit Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to outstanding international undergraduate and graduate students based on their academic achievements. The amount of the scholarship varies depending on factors such as GPA and standardized test scores.

2. International Excellence Scholarships: WSU offers competitive scholarships to international undergraduate students who have a strong academic record and demonstrate leadership and community involvement. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs.

3. Graduate Teaching Assistantships: Graduate students may have the opportunity to work as teaching assistants in their respective departments. These positions often come with a stipend and tuition waiver, helping graduate students finance their education.

4. Athletic Scholarships: WSU provides athletic scholarships to international student-athletes who excel in sports such as basketball, track and field, and tennis. These scholarships cover various expenses, including tuition, books, and accommodation.

5. Graduate Research Assistantships: Some graduate programs offer research assistantships that provide financial support to students in exchange for their research contributions. These positions may also include a tuition waiver.

6. Private Scholarships: WSU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, including those from governments, organizations, and foundations. The Office of International Education can assist students in finding relevant scholarships.

7. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments within WSU offer scholarships to students majoring in specific fields. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, leadership, or other criteria related to the student's chosen field of study.

8. Cultural Diversity Scholarships: These scholarships are designed to promote diversity and inclusion on campus. They are available to students from underrepresented backgrounds who contribute to the cultural diversity of WSU.

9. Conditional Scholarships: Conditional scholarships may be offered to students who meet academic requirements but require additional English language support. These scholarships often include language training as part of the package.

It's essential for international students to check the specific eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and scholarship amounts for each scholarship opportunity.

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at Wichita State University equips students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experiences needed to excel in various roles within the public and nonprofit sectors. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in public service and contribute to the betterment of their communities.  

1. Public Administration Roles: MPA graduates are well-suited for a wide range of public administration roles in local, state, and federal government agencies. These roles may include city manager, public policy analyst, program manager, and public affairs specialist. The program's curriculum prepares students to navigate the complexities of public administration, including budgeting, policy analysis, and intergovernmental relations.

2. Nonprofit Leadership: The nonprofit sector offers numerous opportunities for MPA graduates to lead and manage nonprofit organizations. Graduates can pursue roles as nonprofit executive directors, program managers, or fundraising coordinators. Their understanding of public administration principles, grant writing, and ethical leadership makes them valuable assets in this sector.

3. Public Policy Analysis: MPA graduates often work as policy analysts, evaluating public policies and their impact on society. They may be employed by think tanks, research institutions, advocacy groups, or government agencies. Their ability to analyze policies, conduct research, and make data-driven recommendations is highly sought after in these roles.

4. Emergency Management: With a focus on crisis management and disaster preparedness, MPA graduates are well-prepared for careers in emergency management. They can work as emergency managers, disaster response coordinators, or homeland security specialists, helping communities prepare for and respond to emergencies.

5. Healthcare Administration: Healthcare organizations, both public and private, require skilled administrators to manage healthcare delivery systems efficiently. MPA graduates can pursue careers as healthcare administrators, managing healthcare facilities, optimizing healthcare processes, and ensuring the delivery of quality care.

6. Environmental Policy and Sustainability: MPA graduates interested in environmental policy and sustainability can contribute to efforts aimed at addressing environmental challenges. They may work for environmental agencies, conservation organizations, or in roles related to sustainable development and environmental regulation.

7. Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice: Some MPA graduates choose to enter law enforcement or criminal justice agencies as administrators, overseeing the management of law enforcement operations, corrections facilities, or community safety programs.

8. Consulting and Advisory Roles: With their expertise in public administration and policy analysis, MPA graduates are well-suited for consulting and advisory roles. They can provide valuable insights to government agencies, nonprofits, and private sector organizations seeking guidance on public policy, governance, and management.

9. Research and Academia: Graduates interested in research and academia can pursue doctoral degrees and become professors or researchers in universities and research institutions, contributing to the advancement of public administration knowledge.

10. Public Service Leadership: MPA graduates often demonstrate strong leadership skills and a commitment to public service values. They are poised to lead teams and organizations dedicated to serving the public good, making a positive impact on society.