Get your Master’s Degree in Public Affairs

(M.P.A.) provides an excellent foundation for administrative and leadership positions in the public sector—from local government and public policy analysis to personnel administration and strategic planning.

It can also prepare you for a range of jobs outside government, such as nonprofit organizations. See where our graduates are working.

The Master of Public Affairs is a Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) accredited degree program.

Public service and professionalism

In the public affairs program, you’ll study a wide variety of academic disciplines, such as political science, business administration, economics, sociology, health policy administration, environmental science/regional planning, law and criminal justice. The program is designed to promote professionalism, leadership, inventiveness and a commitment to public service. In addition, you can learn relevant workplace skills through your required internship if you are not already working in the public sector.

Designed to fit your needs

The program is designed to accommodate the needs of working students. Class size is usually small, ranging from 5 to 20 students. A program may be individually tailored for you in consultation with an advisor.

You may complete the program part-time or full-time. Most students earn their M.P.A. degree in two to three years while taking classes only in the evening. See the M.P.A. Program Handbook (PDF) for details on courses and degree requirements.

Contact us

Program Leader Laurie Drapela, drapela@wsu.edu, (360) 546-9485

Program Coordinator Jamie Hankins, jamie.hankins@wsu.edu, (360) 546-9640