Master of Business Administration - Accounting
The MBA program at the University of the Potomac typically consists of 12 courses, tota...
Master of Business Administration - Public Policy
Washington, D.C., Virginia
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Program Overview
The MBA with a Public Policy concentration at the University of the Potomac typically requires 36 academic credits for completion. The program is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of core business functions before delving into specialized public policy knowledge. Students complete eight foundational MBA courses (24 credits) covering essential areas such as managerial accounting, economics, finance, marketing, and strategic management. Following this, they undertake four specialized courses (12 credits) specifically focused on Public Policy. This integrated approach ensures graduates develop not only deep expertise in policy analysis and implementation but also the broader business acumen necessary to make effective strategic decisions and lead diverse teams within governmental, non-profit, or private sector organizations that interact with public policy. The program is generally designed for completion within approximately two years.
Curriculum: The 36-semester-hour curriculum for the MBA with a Public Policy concentration at the University of the Potomac begins with foundational MBA core courses, providing a solid business understanding. These typically include: "BUS 501 Managerial Accounting," "BUS 502 Managerial Economics," "BUS 503 Managerial Finance," "BUS 510 Strategic Management," "BUS 520 Human Resources and Organizational Behavior," "BUS 530 Marketing Management," "BUS 560 Management and Information Systems," and "BUS 570 Business Ethics." After establishing this foundational knowledge, students then transition to the four specialized Public Policy concentration courses: "MLS 620 Intergovernmental Relations," "MPP 610 Governmental Theory," "MPP 620 Grant Writing and Administration," and "MPP 630 Public Budgeting and Finance." This comprehensive curriculum is designed to provide graduates with advanced knowledge in governmental structures, policy development, funding mechanisms, and financial management within the public sector.
Research Focus: The University of the Potomac's MBA with a Public Policy concentration is highly applied, focusing on equipping students with the analytical and strategic thinking skills necessary to understand, analyze, and influence public policy, rather than on traditional academic research culminating in a thesis. The program aims to prepare students to "decipher complex legislation, deliver innovative solutions, and contribute to policies that affect the community you live in." Courses likely involve examining existing public policies, evaluating their impact, proposing evidence-based solutions to societal challenges, and understanding the practicalities of policy implementation. The curriculum encourages critical analysis of governmental processes and public finance to inform effective decision-making in a policy context.
Industry Engagement: The University of the Potomac's MBA with a Public Policy concentration demonstrates strong industry engagement by directly addressing the needs of governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, and private businesses that interact extensively with public policy. The curriculum's focus on "Intergovernmental Relations," "Grant Writing and Administration," and "Public Budgeting and Finance" directly reflects the practical skills required in these sectors. While specific industry partnerships may not be detailed, the program's strategic location in the Washington D.C. area, a global hub for policy-making, government agencies, and related non-profits and lobbying firms, inherently provides significant opportunities for students to engage with the relevant industries and professionals through networking, internships, and career opportunities. The program's aim to "contribute to policies that affect the community" also suggests a strong community and public service orientation.
Global Perspective: The MBA with a Public Policy concentration at the University of the Potomac inherently incorporates a significant global perspective. While the explicitly listed concentration courses focus on domestic policy aspects, the broader MBA framework at the University of the Potomac aims to prepare graduates to "identify problems related to U.S. and foreign businesses and to artfully respond to these challenges." Public policy, especially in the context of Washington D.C., often involves international relations, global economic policies, and cross-border governance challenges. Topics such as international trade agreements, global public health policy, foreign aid, and geopolitical influences on domestic policy are likely integrated into discussions within courses or through case studies. The university's diverse student body and faculty further enrich this global understanding by bringing varied international experiences and perspectives to the classroom, fostering a comprehensive view of public policy in a globalized world.
Location
Washington, D.C., Virginia
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 22250
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% 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 59 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
The University of the Potomac is dedicated to making education affordable and accessible for international students by offering a variety of scholarship opportunities. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need, helping reduce the overall cost of education for deserving students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students demonstrating strong academic performance may qualify for merit-based scholarships. These awards reward high GPA, outstanding achievements, and exceptional contributions in previous educational settings. Merit scholarships can significantly lower tuition fees and encourage students to maintain high academic standards throughout their studies.
Need-Based Scholarships: The university also offers need-based scholarships designed to assist international students facing financial challenges. Applicants are encouraged to submit detailed financial information during the admissions process to be considered for these scholarships, which aim to bridge the gap between the cost of education and the student’s financial resources.
Special Program Scholarships: Certain academic programs at the University of the Potomac provide dedicated scholarships for international students, especially in fields such as business administration, information technology, and cybersecurity. These program-specific awards support students pursuing careers in high-demand industries.
Graduates of the University of the Potomac's MBA with a Public Policy concentration possess a unique blend of business acumen and policy expertise, making them highly adaptable and valuable in diverse professional settings. Their ability to analyze complex policy issues, understand governmental structures, manage public finances, and engage in effective intergovernmental relations prepares them for impactful roles. This dual skillset allows them to operate effectively in the public, private, and non-profit sectors, influencing decisions that shape society and contributing to solutions for complex challenges.
Policy Analyst/Advisor: Works for government agencies, think tanks, non-profit organizations, or consulting firms to research, analyze, and evaluate existing and proposed policies, providing recommendations for improvements or new initiatives.
Government Affairs Manager/Lobbyist: Represents organizations (private companies, non-profits, or industry associations) in their interactions with government, advocating for policies that align with their interests and monitoring legislative developments.
Public Sector Consultant: Advises governmental agencies or public organizations on strategic planning, operational efficiency, program evaluation, and policy implementation, leveraging business principles to improve public service delivery.
Program Manager (Government/Non-profit): Designs, implements, and oversees public sector programs or initiatives within government agencies or non-profit organizations, ensuring they meet policy goals and deliver intended societal impact.
Budget Analyst: Works in government at federal, state, or local levels to analyze budget proposals, forecast revenues and expenditures, and ensure fiscal responsibility and efficient allocation of public funds.
Intergovernmental Relations Specialist: Facilitates communication and collaboration between different levels of government (federal, state, local) or between government and international bodies on various policy issues.
Grant Writer and Administrator (Public Sector/Non-profit): Identifies funding opportunities, writes compelling grant proposals, and manages the administration of grants for government agencies or non-profit organizations to secure resources for public-oriented projects.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager: Works in the private sector to develop and implement strategies that align a company's business objectives with social and environmental responsibilities, often engaging with public policy and community stakeholders.
Public Affairs Specialist: Manages an organization's public image and communications regarding policy issues, engaging with media, stakeholders, and the public to shape perceptions and influence public opinion.
Urban or Regional Planner: Contributes to the development and implementation of plans for sustainable urban growth, infrastructure, transportation, and community development, often working for local governments or planning agencies.
