Master's Degree in Public Administration
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A master’s degree in public administration is ideal for individuals passionate about leadership and driving positive change in government, nonprofit, or public service organizations. This program prepares students for careers in public policy analysis, city management, nonprofit leadership, and roles in federal, state, or local government.
Program Overview
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.
Our Accreditation
Our master’s program in Public Administration is fully accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA). This accreditation assures prospective students that our program meets rigorous, mission-driven standards, emphasizes public service values and continuous improvement, and prepares them for leadership roles in government, nonprofit, and policy sectors.
Related Careers
- City or County Manager
- Human Services Manager
- Public Financial Manager
- Emergency Management Program Manager
- Chief Administrative Officer
- Public Affairs Director
- Urban Planner
- Program Manager (Government Agency)
- Nonprofit Executive Director
- Development Director
- Grants Manager
- Advocacy Coordinator
- Community Outreach Manager
- Director of Strategic Initiatives
- Public Information Officer
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
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 or equivalent experience*
• 3 credit hours client-based Capstone
*Students may receive a waiver from the DGS if they have significant experience in public policy and administration.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Additional Requirements listed below, those program-specific requirements also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Additional Requirements listed below, those program-specific requirements also apply.
Program Specific Requirements
Must have obtained a baccalaureate degree prior to the start of the admission term, from a fully accredited U.S. institution of higher learning or from a recognized foreign institution. See Graduate School admissions for specifics.
• At least a 2.75 cumulative undergraduate grade point average (on a 4.0 scale)
• At least a 3.0 cumulative graduate grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) if any graduate work has been completed prior to enrollment at the Martin School.
• Two letters of recommendation that provide evidence about the applicant’s ability and potential.
• Personal statement with a demonstrated desire to work in the public or nonprofit sector.
• Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements.
Application Requirements
• Upload unofficial copies of transcripts from all higher education institutions attended. When you enroll, you will need to have official transcripts sent to the Graduate School.
• Upload a 2-3 page biographical sketch that describes your motivation for wanting to earn this degree and wanting to attend our program.
• Upload a CV.
• Supply the email addresses for at least two individuals, preferably professors, who are familiar with your academic abilities, particularly your ability to do graduate work and who have agreed to write recommendation letters for you. Working professionals should seek to obtain at least one academic reference but may submit letters from supervisors or others familiar with their experience.
• All applicants whose native language is not English will be asked to self-report TOEFL or IELTS scores on the application as well as have official scores directly sent by Educational Testing Service (ETS). See the Graduate School website for exceptions. International students whose instruction was in English can send proof of this directly to Graduate Admissions.
Application Deadlines
Domestic
-
Fall
- 07/25/2025
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Spring
- 12/12/2025
International
-
Fall
- 04/15/2025
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Spring
- 09/15/2025
Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!
Expand Your Learning
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
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
Get More Information
Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
