#26 Nationally Ranked Public Affairs Program Master of Public Administration In-Person & Online
Master of Public Administration
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.
About the Master of Public Administration
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.
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.
MPA Curriculum Plans
Links below will open PDF curriculum plans.
- MPA Full-time In-Person (2 years, Fall Start)
- MPA Full-time Online (2 years, Fall Start)
- MPA Part-time In-Person (3 years, Fall Start)
- MPA Part-time Online (3 years, Fall Start)
- MPA Full-time In-Person or Online (2 years, Spring Start)
- MPA Part-time In-Person or Online (2.5 years, Spring Start)
- MPA Part-time In-Person or Online (3.5 years, Spring Start)
- Dual Degree: JD/MPA
- Dual Degree: PharmD/MPA
- AMP 4+1 Curriculum Plan (Undergraduate + 1 year MPA)
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:
- Kentucky Youth Advocates
- Kentucky Chamber of Commerce
- Lexington-Fayette County Urban County Government (LFUCG) Department of Social Services
- United Way of Bluegrass
- Kentucky League of Cities
- Blue Grass Community Foundation
- Prichard Committee
- Kentucky Science & Technology Corporation
Contact Graduate Student Affairs
Frequently Asked Questions
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 tuition & 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.
How much does it cost to attend the University of Kentucky?
Tuition 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 that comes with in-state tuition 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.