Vision Statement The Master in Public Administration (MPA) program at Central Michigan University offers a nationally accredited applied professional degree that seeks to be an internationally recognized program for enriching public service and educating practitioners and pre-service students to lead and manage in a variety of public sector settings. Mission Statement The mission of the Master of Public Administration program at Central Michigan University is to provide practitioners and pre-service students enriching learning experiences that prepare and advance their intellectual growth, ensure effective and accountable decision-making as they lead, manage, and serve in the public sector, and increase the likelihood of successful public governance via respect for citizens and clients in a variety of public service settings, from government organizations to nonprofit agencies and international bodies. Public Service Values To achieve our mission and realize our vision, the MPA program at Central Michigan University emphasizes the following NASPAA public service values: Students and alumni from the MPA program at Central Michigan University will: Pursue the public interest with accountability and transparency Serve professionally with competence, efficiency, and objectivity Act ethically so as to uphold the public trust Demonstrate respect, equity, and fairness to dealings with citizens and fellow public servants Universal Competencies To implement its Vision and Mission statements, the MPA program at Central Michigan University has adopted the following set of NASPAA required competencies in its curriculum. Students in the MPA program at Central Michigan University will develop and enhance their ability: To lead and manage in public governance To participate in and contribute to the policy process To analyze, synthesize, think critically, solve problems, and make decisions To articulate and apply a public service perspective To communicate and interact productively with a diverse and changing workforce and citizenry

Applications are welcomed throughout the year on a space available basis. Individuals wishing to apply for main campus graduate assistantships should apply by March 12 for priority admission and assistantship consideration. We encourage individuals to apply online, but welcome the receipt of applications through the mail as well. All Students who apply for the MPA program must provide: ​A completed application form and any applicable fees to the Colle​ge of Graduate Studie​s. Official transcripts showing all previous college and/or university course work completed from both graduate and undergraduate levels. Three letters of recommendation from former professors or public service professionals who can speak to your abilities and aptitudes. Current resume/vita. Two-three page essay discussing your prior educational and work experience and how an MPA degree will enhance your future plans. Admission Requirements: Completion of an undergraduate degree with a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher from an accredited institution. Completion of a statistics, economics or research methods course. The Process: Once you have completed your admissions application, submitted your essay, and the college has received your transcripts and letters of recommendation your application will be submitted to the Political Science and Public Administration Department for review. A committee of Public Administration faculty and the MPA Program Director will review your application and make a recommendation for admission or denial of your application.