Online Master of Public Affairs (MPA)

A Master of Public Affairs, or MPA, is one of the most versatile and valuable degrees available—a combination of the Master of Public Administration and the Master of Public Policy degrees. At the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs our students are prepared for public service jobs in our changing society in ways unmatched by other universities. Our MPA program builds leaders who will make a difference in our world.

Find the right balance for you

We recommend taking two courses a semester, but you may take more with permission from the faculty director. Summer courses are offered, too. Students in our program are able to juggle their careers, family obligations, and course work.

Our Online MPA program is delivered asynchronously, so you can complete coursework at any time of day, from anywhere in the world.

The O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs is home to globally and nationally recognized degrees featuring a skills-based, interdisciplinary design that can be tailored to meet the needs of students from any professional background. As a member of the O’Neill School student community, you’ll learn from our world-renowned faculty, who will equip you with the knowledge you need to lead and make a difference across any sector. Upon graduation, you’ll join a supportive, global alumni base of over 37,000 serving their communities in all different capacities and organizations.

Leadership skills with an interdisciplinary foundation

Our professional, interdisciplinary programs connect areas of study, tapping into the strengths of expert faculty in each discipline and offering varied perspectives representative of our interconnected world.

Whether you pursue a degree in public affairs, arts administration, environmental science—or a combination through our dual degrees—you’ll graduate ready for a leadership position that spans the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. And, you'll gain career experience while in school.

Learn from leading faculty

Learn from and alongside our expert faculty—top scholars in their fields, engaged in ongoing research, practice, and, most importantly, your education. More than 85 percent of our courses are taught by full-time faculty. They will become your mentors and advisors, bringing their experience into the classroom and laboratory to prepare you to lead for the greater good.

Top-tier program at a top value

You’ll attend one of the most highly regarded programs in the nation at a cost that is significantly lower than that of many other top-tier programs—we offer one of the most affordable programs in a city that is cosmopolitan, but not costly.

Part of the student—and Bloomington—community

At the O’Neill School, you’ll get a small school experience where we actively strive to cultivate diversity, equity, and inclusion, all with the benefits of a Big Ten Research I university. You’ll find student organizations for every interest—and for advancing your network or career—in addition to the welcoming Bloomington community, ranked one of the most beautiful and best places to live and study.