Online Master of Public Administration

For more than 90 years, the MPA program - named to U.S. News & World Report's 2023 Best Graduate Public Affairs Program Rankings [3] - has been a respected source of practical, nonpartisan education. Our faculty are at the forefront of their fields, working hand-in-hand with leading officials on a wide array of state and local issues. For students, this legacy of engagement translates to a truly exceptional learning experience.

3 Best Graduate Public Affairs Programs (2023). U.S. News and World Report. Retrieved Sept 2023.

• GRE not required
• A pioneer in the online learning space, established in 2013
• Complete in as few as 18 months
• Accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA)
• Five concentrations
• Military-friendly
• Rigorous curriculum focused on local and state governments
• Nonpartisan, application-based approach
• Flexible online format with live weekly classes and self-paced course content
• The UNC-Chapel Hill MPA program is top ranked in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report's 2023 Best Graduate Public Affairs Program Rankings. The MPA program is ranked in several areas of expertise, including local government management (2nd), public management and leadership (13th), environmental policy and management (14th), public finance and budgeting (27th), and public policy analysis (26th).[8]
• Almost 100 percent (roughly 85 percent ) of students receive financial assistance
• 30+ cross-university elective courses available
• Local government is a key strength and area of expertise. The School of Government is the largest university-based local government training, advisory, and research organization in the United States.
• Faculty members are passionate, engaged “pracademics” who support more than 12,000 public officials each year.
• Ideal for those looking to progress from direct-service roles to decision-making or management roles in areas like education, public health, law enforcement and emergency management, and social work.
• 8 Best Graduate Public Affairs Programs (2023). U.S. News and World Report. Retrieved Sept 2023.

UNC-Chapel Hill’s online programs and courses bring the advantages of a Carolina public education to engaged citizens, professionals, and leaders all over the world. Our goal is to provide everyone with equal access to academic and career success — regardless of your location, race, experience, worldview, abilities, or identity.

Offered through several professional schools, centers, and institutes, UNC-Chapel Hill’s online programs and curricula help you turn your academic and professional interests into enriching experiences at any stage of your career.

Why choose UNC-Chapel Hill Online?

UNC-Chapel Hill is a global leader known for its innovative teaching and groundbreaking research. As the oldest public university in the United States, Carolina has played a pivotal role in building a stronger, more diversified economy for the people of North Carolina and beyond.

UNC’s online learning experiences are designed so that regardless of where you live, you can expect unmatched educational opportunities and a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration that unites the Tar Heel community.