Master of Public Administration

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

Academic Requirements:

1. Minimum Academic Percentage: To be eligible for admission to postgraduate programs at CSUB, international students are required to have a bachelor's degree with a minimum academic percentage of 60% or higher. 

English Language Proficiency Requirements:

1. IELTS: An overall IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score of 6.5 or higher is required with no individual band score less than 6.

2. TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, internet-based test) score of 79 or higher is required. 

3. DET (Duolingo English Test): A DET score of 105 or higher is required.

4. PTE (Pearson Test of English): A PTE score of 58 or higher is required.

Credential Evaluation required.

Scholarships for International Students at California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB)

1. International Student Success Scholarship: CSUB offers the International Student Success Scholarship to eligible international students. This scholarship is designed to support students who have demonstrated academic excellence. It is typically awarded based on a combination of factors, including academic achievements, standardized test scores, and the student's financial need. The scholarship amount can vary and may cover a portion of tuition and fees.

2. External Scholarships: In addition to university-specific scholarships, international students at CSUB may also explore external scholarship opportunities. Various organizations, foundations, and government agencies offer scholarships to international students studying in the United States. These scholarships can help cover tuition, living expenses, and other educational costs.

3. Graduate Assistantships: For international students pursuing graduate programs, CSUB may offer graduate assistantship opportunities. These positions provide students with the chance to work on research projects or assist faculty members in various capacities while earning a stipend and, in some cases, a partial or full tuition waiver.

4. Fulbright Program: CSUB participates in the Fulbright Program, which is a prestigious international scholarship program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. International students interested in pursuing a master's or doctoral degree at CSUB may apply for Fulbright scholarships through their home country's Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy.

5. Private Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore private scholarship options in their home countries and the United States. Many private organizations, foundations, and corporations offer scholarships to support international students' educational goals.

6. Research and Teaching Assistantships: Some academic departments at CSUB may offer research or teaching assistantships to international graduate students. These positions typically involve assisting faculty members with research projects or teaching undergraduate courses and can provide financial support.

It's important for international students to check the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship opportunity at CSUB.

The Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) program at California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) is a distinguished graduate program that prepares individuals for dynamic and impactful careers in the public and nonprofit sectors. This comprehensive program equips students with a deep understanding of public administration, policy analysis, and leadership skills.  

1. Public Service Leadership: Graduates of the M.P.A. program are well-prepared to take on leadership roles in public service organizations. They often pursue careers as city managers, county administrators, or directors of government agencies, where they can lead and guide their organizations in serving the public effectively.

2. Policy Analysis and Development: With a strong foundation in policy analysis and development, M.P.A. graduates are equipped to work as policy analysts, contributing to the creation and improvement of public policies at various levels of government. This role involves researching, assessing, and making recommendations on policy matters.

3. Nonprofit Management: Many M.P.A. graduates find fulfilling careers in the nonprofit sector. They may serve as executive directors or program managers in nonprofit organizations, working to address important social issues, such as healthcare, education, and community development.

4. Public Finance and Budgeting: Proficiency in public finance and budgeting is another area of expertise for M.P.A. graduates. They can work as budget analysts, financial managers, or auditors, ensuring that public resources are allocated efficiently and transparently.

5. Urban and Regional Planning: Graduates with an M.P.A. often venture into urban and regional planning, playing a vital role in shaping the growth and development of communities. They may work as urban planners, addressing issues related to land use, transportation, and sustainability.

6. Healthcare Administration: The M.P.A. program's emphasis on leadership and management skills makes it an excellent choice for those interested in healthcare administration. Graduates can become healthcare administrators, overseeing the operations of hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organizations.

7. Environmental Policy and Sustainability: As the need for sustainable practices grows, M.P.A. graduates can contribute to environmental policy and sustainability efforts. They may work in roles related to environmental policy development, conservation, and sustainable resource management.

8. Education Administration: Education administrators at various levels, such as school principals, superintendents, or deans in higher education, benefit from the leadership and organizational skills cultivated in the M.P.A. program.

9. Research and Analysis: The program equips students with strong analytical and research skills. Graduates can find employment as researchers and analysts in think tanks, research organizations, or government agencies.

10. Government Relations and Advocacy: With their knowledge of government operations, M.P.A. graduates often excel in roles related to government relations and advocacy. They may work for advocacy groups, lobbying firms, or as legislative liaisons.

11. Public Policy Consulting: Public policy consultants offer their expertise to organizations seeking insights into government regulations and policies. M.P.A. graduates may establish their own consulting firms or join established consulting companies.

12. Academia and Teaching: For those interested in academia, the M.P.A. degree can be a stepping stone to teaching and research positions in universities or community colleges.

13. Public Safety and Emergency Management: Public safety officers, emergency managers, and first responders can benefit from the organizational and crisis management skills honed in the M.P.A. program.