A Program Designed for Working Professionals
At the University of New Orleans, our MPA program is tailored to meet the needs of working professionals who are deeply connected to the concerns of our community.
At the University of New Orleans, we are proud to be Louisiana’s only public university located in New Orleans, a city renowned for its culture and community. Our faculty and staff are deeply committed to public service and share your dedication to making a difference.
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program is designed for individuals passionate about managing, leading, and serving the public and nonprofit sectors. This flexible and highly practical degree equips you with the tools and knowledge to tackle today’s complex public service challenges.
Choosing an MPA is a strategic step toward a rewarding and impactful career. If you’re ready to lead, serve, and make a meaningful difference, we invite you to join our community of change-makers.
Why Choose Our MPA Program?
Nationally Respected
Ranked among the top MPA programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Accredited Excellence
The only MPA program in New Orleans accredited by NASPAA, the global standard in public service education.
World-Class Faculty
Learn from tenured faculty whose research informs their teaching and adjunct instructors actively engaged in public and nonprofit service across Louisiana.
Flexible, Hybrid Learning:
Courses combine in-person and virtual elements, making it the only MPA program in New Orleans with in-person coursework. This format fosters meaningful connections with peers and industry professionals.
Convenient Scheduling:
Classes and events are offered at times that work for busy professionals, such as once weekly on weekday evenings.
Relevant Specializations:
We offer specializations in Nonprofit Leadership and Hazard Policy, or make your own tailored specialization of 3 or more electives from existing courses and certificate programs across UNO.
Small, Engaged Classes:
Join seminars with fewer than 10 local students, ensuring an intimate learning environment focused on regional issues and real-world case studies.
Personalized Mentorship:
Work closely with our dedicated faculty on a Capstone project tailored to your interests, conducted in partnership with a local organization to address pressing community needs.
Advance Your Public Service Career with Minimal Cost and Time
The University of New Orleans offers an MPA program designed to maximize your career potential while minimizing the time and financial investment.
UNO provides some of the most affordable tuition rates in the region, resulting in low graduate debt.
Our 36-credit program can be completed in just two years, allowing you to quickly advance your career.
Flexible Dual Opportunities:
Combine your MPA with a joint law degree at Loyola University New Orleans or any of UNO’s certificate programs to reduce credit hour requirements and broaden your expertise.
Accelerated Pathways:
Political Science and Interdisciplinary Studies (IDS) majors at UNO can enroll in our Accelerated MPA program, earning both undergraduate and graduate degrees in less time. Credits can also be applied toward UNO’s PhDs in Urban Studies or Justice Studies.
“The MPA from UNO allowed me to hone my research skills and develop nonprofit leadership and policy expertise that I have utilized in every position since 2011. [MPA faculty] were instrumental in shaping my understanding of public administration and public service.”
~Dr. David W. Robinson-Morris
PhD, MPA 2011
Enhancing the Quality of Public Service
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) is the premier degree for leadership in public service, as recognized by NASPAA. Our curriculum equips students with the skills to design and implement policies and programs that tackle critical societal challenges.
MPA graduates excel in diverse fields, including government at all levels, nonprofits, international organizations, consulting, and the private sector, driving meaningful change wherever they serve.
Career Opportunities for MPA Graduates
Graduates of an MPA program make an impact across a wide range of sectors, including:
Government: At the federal, state, and local levels.
Nonprofits: Driving missions that serve communities and global causes.
International Organizations: Leading initiatives on a global scale.
Consulting Firms: Advising on strategies for public and private organizations.
Private Sector: Applying public service expertise to corporate social responsibility and other initiatives.
Come join us!
Our MPA program exists to support local governments and nonprofits doing essential work in the greater New Orleans community, and we are passionate about supporting our students through flexible hybrid course offerings and a strong return on your investment. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me and explore how an MPA at UNO can benefit your career or to meet with a faculty member and/or current student.
Steven W. Mumford
Associate Professor and Program Director
“The program was practical, flexible, and affordable. Even though I mostly attended online classes [during the COVID-19 pandemic], our group was close-knit and the environment very supportive.
The faculty were always very understanding and helpful. I appreciated the ability to network and develop strong relationships with my professors through smaller class sizes and their personal approaches to teaching."
~Brett Stephenson
MPA 2022