Public Administration

Overview

In addition to taking core courses in public policy analysis, the rule of law, economics, and research methods, students will have the opportunity to develop and apply thematic expertise through specialist tracks within the program. These are: Security; Development; Governance; Media and Communication; and Higher Education Policy. In the Spring terms, MPA students participate in a series of Skills For Impact modules that develop emotional intelligence, awareness, leadership, negotiation and teambuilding capacities, as well as practical skills such as media training and documentary film making. These are intended for student application during their MPA program, as well as post-graduation employment.  The third program component is the Applied Policy Project, a nine month engagement between student teams and an external client that enables students to bridge classroom and experiential learning in a consultancy style format that is supported by the Project Director, a Faculty Adviser and the client organization.

Overall Aim

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at Central European University (CEU) develops graduates with the knowledge base and applied skills to critically engage with policy processes and debates, the methods training to promote and advocate for evidenced based policy, and a practitioners perspective that enables them to move from "contemplation to application". This integrated and experiential approach to teaching and learning positions SPP MPA graduates to make a difference in the world of public policy in a period of rapid change, increased complexity, and heightened contestation.

Accreditation

• Program approved and registered by the New York State Education Department

• Program registered as a non-degree post-graduate specialization program by the Hungarian Educational Authority (HEA)

• Program accredited by the Agency for Quality Assurance and Accreditation Austria (AQ-Austria)