College of Arts & Sciences Political Science

M.P.A.

USD's Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) program combines theoretical background with an experiential component, giving you the wisdom to know and the courage to act. You'll experience the highest quality faculty and staff while learning in a supportive environment, preparing you for the challenges of the 21st century.

Our multidisciplinary faculty, diverse student body, and excellent facilities offer a rich and challenging environment for graduate education in public administration.

Graduates of our public administration program serve at all levels of government in the United States and abroad. Many also hold responsible positions in the private and non-profit sectors.  

Program Specializations

Our M.P.A. program combines in-depth study of core administration subjects with beginning specialization in one of several option areas, or you may choose to create your own option area with the approval of the Director of Graduate Studies. This flexible multi-disciplinary approach enables you, in conjunction with a faculty advisor, to develop a program tailored to your career interests and academic background. 

Concentrations:
  • Criminal Justice Administration
  • Health Services Administration
  • Leadership Theory & Practice
  • Nonprofit Management
  • Public Finance
  • State & Local Government Administration

Joint Programs

Students in the M.P.A. program can simultaneously pursue a Juris Doctor at The U's School of Law. The faculty of both the Political Science Department and School of Law are uniquely capable of offering this joint training. Joint degrees can be earned concurrently in three years. Nine hours of courses offered by the School of Law constitutes the specialization for students enrolled in this concurrent degree program. Students may consult with the Director of Graduate Studies to include additional courses. 

See the graduate catalog for a sample course listing.

Graduate Committee

The graduate committee is a three-member committee comprised of two members of the USD graduate faculty from the department of Political Science and one member from outside the department. One member is appointed by the student; one member is appointed by the Director of Graduate Studies, and a third member is to be appointed by the director in consultation with the student.

The advisory committee will advise the student on a variety of matters:

  • approving the student's program of study
  • approving the student's thesis or professional report
  • certifies to the Graduate School that the candidate has satisfactorily met all requirements for the M.P.A.

Internships

Internships are required for M.P.A. students who lack significant previous experience or students interested in moving in new professional directions. Students who possess 4-6 years of concentrated administrative experience in public and nonprofit organizations, and who intend to advance in this same area of professional specialization, can apply to do a practicum in place of the internship requirement. 

The purpose of both practicum and internship projects is to enable students to gain valuable experience in governmental and not-for-profit agencies, while providing agencies with the services of graduate students with high potential for future achievement. In addition, internships allow for application of classroom learning and service to integrate academics with professional experience.

As an M.P.A .student, you'll have access to a multitude of resources to help you find an internship that's a perfect fit for you.

For more information, please refer to the M.P.A. Handbook.

Helpful Links

Dr. Michael Card, Program Director
Political Science Department
Dakota Hall 117
605-677-5748