What are your admissions requirements for the online Master of Public Administration and Policy?
You will need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university, and submission of your GRE or LSAT test score (waivers considered).
Can I be admitted to the program if I do not have a BA in public policy or administration?
Yes, it is not a requirement to have an undergraduate degree in public administration or policy.
How long does it take to complete the Master of Public Administration and Policy?
The program can be completed in as little as 24 months.
Are there any specializations offered?
This program is structured to be a blend of the core curriculum of the campus Master of Public Administration and Master of Public Policy.
Do you require submission of test scores?
GRE requirement waived through spring 2023. Although the MPAP program does not currently require the GRE, students with a GPA below 3.0 are encouraged to take the GRE for further evaluation. LSAT scores can also be evaluated in place of GRE.
Can the GRE be waived?
GRE requirement waived through spring 2023. Although the MPAP program does not currently require the GRE, students with a GPA below 3.0 are encouraged to take the GRE for further evaluation. LSAT scores can also be evaluated in place of GRE.
What are the admission requirements for international students?
A TOEFL score of 600 (or 100 on the Internet-based test), a minimum score of 68 on the Pearson Test of English, or a minimum IELTS score of seven (7) is required. Additionally, applicants with international transcripts must have them evaluated course-by-course. For a list of acceptable evaluators, go to NACES.org.
What documents are required when applying?
The required application documents include:
• A completed graduate application
• A $55 application Fee
• Phone Interview with Admissions Advisor
• Résumé
• Statement of purpose
• Two letters of recommendation, which may be from former professors as well as current or former employers
• Transcripts from previous undergraduate and relevant graduate coursework (If a degree was earned outside the U.S., a course-by-course evaluated transcript is required.)
• GRE or LSAT scores (GRE optional)
• A $55 application Fee
• Phone Interview with Admissions Advisor
• Résumé
• Statement of purpose
• Two letters of recommendation, which may be from former professors as well as current or former employers
• Transcripts from previous undergraduate and relevant graduate coursework (If a degree was earned outside the U.S., a course-by-course evaluated transcript is required.)
• GRE or LSAT scores (GRE optional)
When is the deadline for application?
Our application deadline will change depending on which to term you are applying for. Please contact our online admissions staff for a specific timeline your application file needs to be fully submitted.
Is financial aid available?
Graduate students enrolled at least part time in a Master's program may be eligible for federal loans. To apply, students must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
What is the Policy Practicum?
The final course in your Master of Public Administration and Policy is to demonstrate what you’ve learned by performing policy analysis or a management project for an external client.
Where do alumni of the Master of Public Administration and Policy program find employment?
Students with a Master of Public Administration and Policy are typically employed in the public, for-profit, and nonprofit sectors in the United States and abroad. Learn more about our graduates’ success.
What potential jobs can I find in nonprofit organizations?
When you graduate with a Master of Public Administration and Policy degree you'll be prepared for a variety of nonprofit jobs, depending on your past experience within the field, including:
•Nonprofit Program Manager
•Nonprofit Budget Analyst
•Nonprofit Operations Manager
•Director of Development
•Chief Operating Officer
•Chief Executive Officer
•Nonprofit Program Manager
•Nonprofit Budget Analyst
•Nonprofit Operations Manager
•Director of Development
•Chief Operating Officer
•Chief Executive Officer
Will this degree help me enter the nonprofit sector?
Yes. A significant portion—30 percent—of professionals with public administration and policy degrees enter careers with nonprofit organizations.
Will I be able to take advantage of the same resources as on-campus students do?
Yes, online students are encouraged to obtain a Student ID and take advantage of all of the same resources as our on-campus students.
Are there scholarships available for the program?
American University is pleased to offer the Online Merit Scholarship to students who demonstrate undergraduate excellence and continue on to graduate studies. Scholarships are available to students who meet theeligibility requirements.
AmeriCorps Education Award Matching Program
Current AmeriCorps volunteers and alumni who are admitted to an SPA's master's degree program for any modality will be offered an application fee waiver code so they may apply for free. Upon completing their application by the priority deadline and gaining admission will receive a guaranteed scholarship that matches the Segal Education Award up to the $6000 threshold (only one match per student is available). Priority, admitted AmeriCorps volunteers and alumni will also be considered for other merit aid opportunities and, if awarded, will be extended the greater between the two awards (Segal Education Award or SPA Merit Award). Please contact an enrollment counselor for more information.
To learn more about American University’s online Master of Public Administration and Policy, request more information or call us toll free at 855-725-7614.
