The academic qualification of Master of Public Administration (MPA) is a specialized professional graduate degree in public administration. Its course of studies prepares students for roles as leaders, and resembles or mirrors training for qualification as a Master of Business Administration, but with an emphasis on issues of public services.
This program covers principles of public administration, policy development, and management. Graduates may work in government, nonprofits, or private companies. The specifics of the program can vary by university or country. It typically requires two years for completion.