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#27 Nationally Ranked Public Affairs Program Master of Public Administration In-Person & Online

Become a leader in policy change.

Join one of US News and World Report's Top 30 MPA programs! The Martin School trains professionals to work in non-profits, government agencies, non-governmental agencies and the political sphere, building on strong foundations in management, finance and analysis. The Masters in Public Administration offers students the analytical, communication and organizational tools to implement policy to address complex social, economic and political issues.

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MPA Mission Statement

The Martin School's Master of Public Administration program prepares future public and nonprofit leaders who are committed to integrity and excellence in public policy, public financial analysis, and public management.

To accomplish our mission we:

  • Foster commitment to public service and excellence in public policy and administration.
  • Prepare both pre-service and in-service students to provide professional leadership in public policy and administration at all levels of government, in not-for-profit organizations, and in the public service-related activities of profit-seeking enterprises.
  • Enhance the knowledge and problem solving capabilities of our students by focusing on policy analytic and public financial management skills so they can function effectively as analysts, managers, and leaders.

NASPAA Accreditation

The Martin School's MPA program is accredited by the NASPAA (Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration) Commission on Peer Review and Accreditation and listed on the Annual Roster of Accredited Programs in conformity with NASPAA standards.

NASPAA, the global standard in public service education, is the premier specialized accreditor of graduate programs in the area of public affairs. Only 173 institutions are currently accredited, and the Martin School is accredited through 2028.

Learn more about our NASPAA accreditation.

About the Master of Public Administration

MPA Requirements

The Martin School's MPA program offers many flexible options that fit any schedule. These include in-person and online courses as well as a full-time or part-time pace. 

40 credit hours total

  • 27 credit hours of Policy Core courses
  • 9 credit hours in an Area of Concentration (electives)
    • With the selection of specific courses, students can concurrently earn a Graduate Certificate in Public Financial Management or Nonprofit Management (separate application to certificate is required).
  • 1 credit hour Internship (PA 711) or equivalent experience*
  • 3 credit hours client-based Capstone (PA 681)

*Students may receive a waiver from the DGS if they have significant experience in public policy and administration. If a waiver is granted, the credit hour for PA 711 must be replaced with another graduate-level course of the student's choosing. Contact the Graduate Affairs Officer and DGS if you have relevant experience.

Curriculum Plans

Links below will open PDF curriculum plans.

Client-Based Capstones

The Martin School's MPA features a modern client-based capstone program! Students have the opportunity to work on something of value to an organization and the larger community while applying what they learned in class to a something of importance. They also make numerous professional connections along the way! 

Some of our students have even been invited to present their capstone projects to the organization after its completion! 

Past MPA students have created client-based capstones with the following organizations:

  • Bluegrass Area Development District
  • Blue Grass Community Foundation
  • Fayette Alliance
  • Kentucky Association of Counties
  • Kentucky Chamber of Commerce
  • Kentucky Humanities
  • Kentucky League of Cities (KLC)
  • Kentucky Science & Technology Corporation
  • Kentucky Space Works
  • Kentucky Youth Advocates
  • League of Women Voters
  • Lexington-Fayette County Urban County Government (LFUCG) Department of Social Services
  • Prichard Committee
  • United Way of Bluegrass
logos for the client-based capstone organizations

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the MPA application requirements?

  1. CV
  2. Personal statement (2-3 page biological sketch that describes your motivation for wanting to earn this degree and wanting to attend our program)
  3. Copies of unofficial transcripts from all higher education institutions attended. If/when you decide to enroll, you will need to have official transcripts sent to the Graduate School.
  4. Email addresses of at least two individuals (preferably professors) who are familiar with your academic abilities, particularly your ability to do graduate work, and have agreed to provide a recommendation. Working professionals should seek to obtain at least one academic reference but may submit letters from supervisors or others familiar with their experience.
  5. All applicants must show proof of English language proficiency. For more information, please reference https://gradschool.uky.edu/admissions/application-process.

Applicants should apply to the MPA program through the Graduate School's application portal.

Does the Martin School have opportunities for financial aid?

Yes! Martin School funding typically comes in the form of a graduate assistantship or scholarship. To be considered for a graduate assistantship, the applicant must pursue full-time in-person studies (MPA or MPP) at the Martin School. These positions cover program cost & health insurance and pay a biweekly stipend in exchange for 20 hours of work per week. Smaller scholarships are available for both full-time and part-time students. Funding is awarded competitively and awards are subject to availability.

Funding Deadlines:

  • In-person Applicants - February 15
  • Online Applicants - June 1

Where do students usually complete internships?

Students have completed internships at government and nonprofit organizations across the country! Note: if you are an experienced professional in your field, you can have the internship requirement waived.

Is there a part-time MPA sequence?

Yes! You can complete the Martin School's MPA as a part-time student instead of a full-time student. Part-time enrollment is available for in-person and fully online students.

How much does it cost to attend the University of Kentucky?

Program cost is based on your status as an in-state, out-of-state, or international student taking classes in-person or online.

Can I complete my MPA fully online?

Yes! The Martin School has a fully accredited online MPA, available full-time or part-time, that comes with in-state program cost and the ability to complete your degree on your own schedule.

What are the minimum scores required for the TOEFL/IELTS?

UK's Graduate School sets minimum score requirements for English language.

If my instruction was in English, how do I get a TOEFL/IELTS waiver?

Once you apply, your institution should email the appropriate Graduate School admissions officer with proof of English instruction. Please visit the English Language Proficiency section of the Graduate School's Admissions website for more information. 

What is the difference between MPA and MPP?

Master of Public Administration

The Master of Public Administration focuses on leadership, organizational management, budgeting, human resources, and public service ethics to develop the skills needed to manage teams, lead organizations, and oversee programs. MPA graduates typically pursue careers in public administration, government management, nonprofit management, and public affairs. MPA graduates have a basic understanding of quantitative methods, which allows them to fill various job roles. Common roles include city manager, public affairs director, nonprofit executive director, and human resources manager. 

Master of Public Policy

The Master of Public Policy emphasizes quantitative analysis, research, economics, econometrics, and policy evaluation to develop skills in data analysis, economic modeling, and policy design. MPP graduates often work as policy analysts, researchers, consultants, or advisors in government agencies, think tanks, research institutions, and international organizations. MPP graduates have a much more in-depth understanding of quantitative analysis, which allows them to act in much more data-centered roles. Common roles include policy analyst, program evaluator, legislative analyst, and public policy consultant.

Contact Graduate Student Affairs

Director of Graduate Studies, Master's Programs

Rhonda Trautman
Dr. Rhonda Trautman Director of Graduate Studies, Master's Programs
Linked Department (or Location)
Meet Dr. Trautman
Email
rhonda.trautman@uky.edu

Graduate Student Affairs Officer

Audrey Sparks headshot
Audrey Sparks Graduate Student Affairs Officer
Linked Department (or Location)
Meet Audrey Sparks
Location Detail
212 Miller Hall
Email
audrey.sparks@uky.edu
Phone
859-562-3132
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Important Information
(859) 562-3132 Graduate Student Affairs
(859) 257-5052 Undergraduate Student Affairs
(859) 257-5741 Office Operations
Address

Miller Hall (2nd & 3rd Floors)
504 Administration Dr.
Lexington, KY, 40506

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