Masters of Public Administration
Gannon University, located in Erie, Pennsylvania, USA, offers a Master of Publi...
Masters of Public Administration
Erie, Pennsylvania
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
Gannon University, located in Erie, Pennsylvania, USA, offers a Master of Public Administration (MPA) program through its College of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences. This program is thoughtfully designed to cultivate socially responsible leaders, managers, and professionals who can effectively serve in public and nonprofit organizations, both domestically and internationally. The program emphasizes core public service values such as public interest, efficiency, effectiveness, democratic representation, participation, equity, diversity, sustainability, and accountability.
STEM-designated: A significant feature of Gannon's MPA program is its STEM designation. This is a key advantage, particularly for international students studying in the U.S. on an F-1 visa. It allows them to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) period by an additional 24 months, for a total of 36 months of work experience in the U.S. after graduation. This designation underscores the program's strong emphasis on quantitative methods, data-driven decision-making, and analytical skills, setting it apart from more traditional MPA programs and aligning it with the growing demand for data literacy in public service.
Curriculum: The Gannon MPA program is typically structured for completion within 18 to 24 months for full-time students, though it can be extended up to 36 months, offering flexibility for working professionals. The curriculum is comprehensive and dynamic, featuring core courses that delve into essential public administration concepts. These include Public Policy Analysis, Administrative Ethics, Human Resource Management in public and nonprofit settings, Public Financial Management and Budgeting, and Public Organizations and Management. The program also integrates applied statistics and research methods to equip students with critical analytical and problem-solving skills for evidence-based decision-making. Real-world case studies, simulations, and collaborative projects are integral to the learning experience.
Research Focus: Gannon University's MPA program places a strong research focus on developing students' analytical and critical thinking abilities. Students are encouraged to engage in ongoing research initiatives that address contemporary issues in public administration. The curriculum includes dedicated courses in research methods, preparing students to utilize quantitative tools to analyze data, evaluate programs, and contribute to the body of knowledge in public service. Faculty members often incorporate their own research and real-world case studies into class discussions, providing students with practical insights into how research informs public policy and administrative decisions.
Industry Engagement: The Gannon MPA program benefits from robust industry engagement. The university maintains strong connections with local government agencies, non-profit organizations, and other public sector entities in the Erie area, which serves as a "virtual public administration laboratory." This proximity allows for continuous interaction with government and agency leaders, who frequently visit classes and sometimes serve as instructors. The program provides ample internship opportunities, allowing students to gain invaluable hands-on experience and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world public service settings. Gannon's dedicated Career Counselling Center also offers extensive support for resume building, interview preparation, networking strategies, and job placement assistance.
Global Perspective: Gannon University's MPA program actively fosters a global perspective. Its mission includes preparing graduates for leadership roles in public and nonprofit organizations not only domestically but also internationally. The curriculum is designed to infuse international perspectives and activities, acknowledging the increasingly interconnected nature of global governance and policy. Through coursework that may explore comparative public administration and the impact of global trends on local communities, students develop a worldview that emphasizes civic and community engagement and innovation on a global scale. The program's commitment to values like sustainability and diversity further underscores its readiness to address complex challenges that transcend national borders.
Location
Erie, Pennsylvania
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 11750
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Gannon University offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing their studies in the United States. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the campus community, making education more accessible and affordable for students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students at Gannon University are eligible for competitive merit-based scholarships that reward strong academic performance, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable based on maintaining academic standards.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While limited, some need-based financial assistance may be available to international students demonstrating financial need. Applicants are encouraged to communicate their situation during the admission process for consideration.
A Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Gannon University is a powerful credential for individuals seeking to lead and manage in the public and non-profit sectors. The program's unique STEM designation highlights its focus on quantitative methods and data-driven decision-making, preparing graduates for increasingly analytical roles in government and beyond. Gannon's emphasis on public service values and strong industry connections further enhance career readiness.
City/County Manager or Administrator: These executive positions involve overseeing the day-to-day operations of local governments, implementing policies, managing departments, and ensuring efficient public service delivery. MPA graduates are well-equipped with the administrative and financial skills needed for these top roles.
Policy Analyst/Advisor: MPA graduates can work for government agencies, legislative bodies, think tanks, or advocacy groups. They conduct research, analyze policy impacts, evaluate programs, and provide recommendations to inform public policy decisions on a wide range of issues.
Program Manager/Director (Government & Non-Profit): These professionals are responsible for the entire lifecycle of public or non-profit programs, from planning and implementation to evaluation. They manage budgets, lead teams, and ensure programs effectively address community needs or achieve organizational missions.
Budget Analyst/Public Finance Manager: Specializing in financial management for the public sector, these roles involve preparing and analyzing budgets, forecasting financial needs, allocating resources, and ensuring fiscal accountability and compliance with government regulations at all levels.
Non-Profit Executive Director/Development Director: In the non-profit sector, MPA graduates can lead organizations as Executive Directors, overseeing overall operations, strategy, and fundraising. Development Directors focus specifically on securing financial support through grants, donations, and campaigns to sustain the organization's mission.
Human Resources Manager (Public Sector/Non-Profit): These roles involve managing the workforce within government agencies or non-profit organizations. Responsibilities include recruitment, talent development, employee relations, and ensuring equitable practices, aligning with public service values.
Urban or Regional Planner: MPA graduates can contribute to community development by working as urban or regional planners. They develop land use plans, manage zoning regulations, and design strategies for sustainable growth, infrastructure development, and community improvement.
Emergency Management Director: With a focus on public safety and preparedness, these professionals develop and implement plans for responding to and recovering from natural disasters, public health crises, or other emergencies. They often work with local, state, or federal agencies to coordinate resources and response efforts.
Government Relations Specialist/Lobbyist: MPA graduates can work as liaisons between organizations (private companies, non-profits, or interest groups) and government bodies. They advocate for specific policies, monitor legislation, and build relationships to influence public policy outcomes.
Management Consultant (Public Sector Focus): Leveraging their analytical and problem-solving skills, MPA graduates can advise government agencies or non-profit organizations on improving efficiency, optimizing operations, strategic planning, or implementing new policies. This often involves working for consulting firms with a public sector practice.
