GRADUATE PROGRAMS IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION

Enhance your MPA degree with a specialized certificate! Our certificate programs allow students to specialize in their area of interest by tailoring their elective course curriculum.

We offer standalone certificate programs in:

• Public Administration
• Nonprofit Management
• City Management

Certificates can be pursued as a standalone option or in combination with an MPA degree. You are not required to take additional courses outside of the required MPA degree curriculum.

Additionally, we have partnerships with the Department of Theatre, the Department of History, the Department of Political Science and the Department of Theology through which students enrolled in these programs can earn an MA in each of the respective areas while simultaneously completing a Certificate in Nonprofit Management.

Villanova’s MPA degree is affordably priced with tuition rates comparable to public institutions. Additionally, Villanova offers many options to help finance your studies. Learn more about your financial aid options.

Designed with the working professional in mind, all three-credit courses are offered in the evening, with one-credit elective workshops offered on weekends. The MPA program also offers a fully online option. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for spring, summer and fall terms.

Our MPA faculty boast a wide range of scholarly interests and offer interdisciplinary and applied approaches to public administration.

Research and Teaching

Faculty are actively engaged in research, publishing in the discipline’s top journals and university presses. They have established networks with nonprofit organizations and government agencies. Our faculty also have extensive experience in university administration, government management and the nonprofit sector. Students have the opportunity to pursue independent research under the advisement and mentoring of our faculty. Most important, our faculty are deeply committed to teaching and advising.

Practitioners

Learn from leaders in the field. Our cohort of part-time faculty are working professionals who enhance our program by bringing their unique set of skills, experiences, and expertise to the classroom. Their professional networks introduce our students to potential internship, fellowship and employment opportunities.

The MPA program has a strong internship program for students without prior management experience in the field. Previous placements have included:

• Townships and boroughs in the Greater Philadelphia region
• The Pennsylvania Ballet
• SAP
• The City of Philadelphia Office of Homeless Services
• Arts and Business Council of Greater Philadelphia
• The American Cancer Society

Some courses in our program also provide opportunities for community partnerships. MPA students have worked in teams on projects for organizations such as:

• Office of Policy and Planning, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania  - Policy advocacy proposals
• Congreso de Latinos Unidos – Community Research and Event Planning Project
• Eastern State Penitentiary – Marketing Plan, Membership Program
• Simon’s Fund – Advocacy and Fundraising Strategy
• National Constitution Center – The Constitution Happened Here Marketing Plan
• Global Philadelphia Association – Marketing and Communications Plan
• Salvation Army – Lobby Day Campaign in Harrisburg

Our MPA alumni are well-prepared to respond to the increasing need for collaboration across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Alumni have enjoyed successful careers in federal, state, and local government, the nonprofit sector, as well as in a range of private sector career paths. Our alumni continue to support our students by serving on our Advisory Board, participating in professional development efforts, and informing our program of trends and opportunities in public service.

Villanova is honored to support the outstanding individuals who are serving or who have served in the U.S. Military while they pursue their higher education goals. Learn more about education assistance benefits and resources for veterans and current military.