Public Administration Eastern Michigan University

Overview

The Public Administration programme at Eastern Michigan University offers a professional education grounded in applied social sciences to prepare students for leadership roles in public and nonprofit sectors. This curriculum provides the necessary knowledge and analytical tools to address the complex needs of diverse communities. Graduates are equipped to pursue versatile career paths across local government, healthcare, and federal agencies.

The course is designed with flexibility in mind, catering to both current professionals and those aspiring to enter the public sector. Students benefit from the expertise of faculty members who possess extensive research and field experience. The learning environment emphasises core values such as integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Why Public Administration at Eastern Michigan University?

The programme is fully accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), representing the global standard in public service education. This ensures the curriculum meets rigorous international benchmarks for quality and professional relevance. Students have access to a vast network of over 600 alumni, providing significant professional connections throughout Michigan and beyond.

Beyond the classroom, the department offers professionalisation workshops and training opportunities through involvement with professional associations. Students can take leadership roles in the Public Administration Club to further explore government and nonprofit administration. Additionally, competitive graduate assistantships are available, allowing students to support faculty in research and administrative projects.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 20916 per year
• National fee: USD 20916 per year
• Local fee: USD 12068 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of 39 to 42 credit hours, including core subjects and a chosen concentration in areas such as Local Government or Nonprofit Management. Modules may include:

• Public Administration Concepts
• Public and Nonprofit Personnel Administration
• Public and Nonprofit Budgeting
• Quantitative Methods in Public Administration
• Public Policy Analysis and Formulation
• Strategic Management in the Public and Nonprofit Sectors
• Capstone Seminar in Public Administration
• Local Government and Politics

Careers with Public Administration

Graduates of this programme are prepared for diverse roles across multiple sectors of public service. Many alumni secure positions in local and state government, while others find opportunities within the federal government or the private sector. The degree is highly applicable to various organisational niches, including public safety and higher education.

Common career destinations for graduates include nonprofit organisations and healthcare providers. The majority of alumni from this programme continue to live and work in Michigan, contributing to community development and regional administration. The skills gained in strategic management and policy analysis allow for advancement into high-level leadership and management roles.

Accreditation

The MPA program is fully accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), the global standard in public service education. This accreditation indicates that EMU’s MPA program meets all global standards for such programs.