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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Master of Public Administration online

Prepare to join the next generation of leaders within the nonprofit, government, and private sectors, with an online MPA from UNC.

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About the program

  • Five concentrations: Learners can choose to focus on nonprofit management, public management, public health, local government, and international relations.
  • 18 months: Learners can earn their degree in as few as 18 months.
  • 98% job placement: A majority of MPA@UNC graduates secure job placements within six months of graduation.Footnote 3

About the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 

UNC-Chapel Hill's School of Government is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), and is dedicated to prepare the next generation of leaders to improve governance in North Carolina and beyond. Through the online MPA program, learners work with faculty and classmates while pursuing a meaningful career.

Tuition and fees

Tuition and fees are subject to change and may increase each academic year. Tuition does not include student fees, technology platform licensing, or support services. Learners are also responsible for travel and accommodation costs related to any in-person immersions or residentials.

Technology and services powered by 2U, Inc., the parent company of edX.

Featured courses

Learners within the online MPA complete 27 credit hours of core courses, 15 credit hours of electives, a practicum and applied research problem, an optional immersion experience, and the opportunity to enroll in graduate-level courses through other universities. Some of the things learners can expect to experience:

  • 45 credits: Learners complete 45 credit hours covering core courses, electives, and additional hands-on experience.
  • Experienced faculty: Many faculty members share a dedication to service. They work daily with government leaders, and are ready to guide learners as they bridge theory with practice as they advance throughout the program.
  • University partners: Learners can tailor their degrees based on their unique career goals, with more than 30 special elective courses offered only by other universities.
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Admissions

Prospective MPA learners must have earned an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited university, or the international equivalent. Students who are admitted and enrolled in the program but who have not completed an American Government course and earned a B or better will be required to complete a free online UNC MPA American Government course. To complete an application, you will need to submit:

  • Résumé

  • Unofficial transcript prior to admission

  • Letters of recommendation

  • Statement of purpose

  • GRE is optional


Practicum and immersion experiences

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Learners take part in a required Professional Work Experience (PWE) practicum where they get to apply and refine their learning, and develop competencies in a real-world public service work environment. Learners gain professional and career development experience. They also get to demonstrate what they’ve learned, and apply their knowledge to authentic situations.

During optional immersions, learners come together on campus for a three-day weekend, and meet with faculty and classmates. While on campus, learners attend in-person classes and workshops, and grow their professional network. This long weekend allows learners to feel more connected to the campus and participate in professional development activities.

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