Master of Public Administration

A career in public administration provides an opportunity to shape the future and make a positive impact on society and the quality of life. Successful public sector managers today think strategically and comprehend the near and long term implications of the policies they advocate. They integrate local and regional considerations and navigate state and federal regulations to achieve effective outcomes for the constituencies they serve.

The MPA consists of 40 units and is normally completed in two years by early and mid-career professionals who are simultaneously managing demanding careers.

Recent alumni are employed in a wide range of occupations that engage them in the following types of activities:

  • Plan and implement state policies in the executive branch
  • Manage the finances of public utility districts
  • Research criminal justice policies
  • Coordinate housing and community development
  • Lobby the legislature on behalf of associations, organizations, cities and state agencies
  • Serve as officers in the foreign service
  • Provide public relations and advocacy services
  • Analyze fiscal policies for education programs
  • Direct health centers, institutes, and operations
  • Develop policies to improve health care delivery
  • Manage public affairs for agencies and associations
  • Run political campaigns
  • Lead nonprofit agencies and associations
  • Lead human resource departments

High Rankings
The Master of Public Administration program at the USC Price School continues to be ranked among the top public administration programs in the nation. It is rated seventh overall among public affairs schools nationwide and ranks fifth for the public management/administration specialty, according to the U.S. News & World Report.

Links
Master of Public Administration Program

For more information about USC Price's Master of Public Administration program in Sacramento, please contact:

Karen Luethke
Manager, Marketing and Communication
Sol Price School of Public Policy
USC State Capital Center
1800 I Street
Sacramento, CA 95811
(916) 637-8970
luethke@usc.edu