Take your career to the next level with core courses emphasizing effective leadership, policy awareness, and ethical judgments in the public and non-profit sectors.
At Widener, success means more than a graduate degree. You'll complete courses led by public administration insiders, and become part of a network that will follow you long after graduation.
With an emphasis on community connection and advancing public service, you'll elevate your career. A variety of specializations within the program allow you to build a flexible learning path around your unique interests, while a focus on leadership and managerial skills help you build confidence in the workplace.
Our MPA degree is offered in a synchronous online format. For more information regarding the master's program as well as certificate track and specialization requirements, view our Loading....
Non-Profit Leadership
The non-profit leadership certificate puts emphasis on connecting curricula to challenging societal issues and is designed for individuals seeking to improve their performance and advance a career in the non-profit sector or students who are interested in pursuing a master’s degree in public administration but would like to explore post-graduate education through certificate courses.
Detailed information about our specializations, including courses and requirements, can be found in our Loading....
Local Government Administration
Nonprofit Administration
Criminal Justice
Human Sexuality Studies
Build a degree around your interests with an interdisciplinary approach to public administration.
Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university.
3.0 GPA
If not attained, evaluation of an applicant's ability to complete graduate work will be based on academic performance and a necessary 3.0 GPA within the first six credit hours.
One of these letters must be from someone who is familiar with the applicant's ability to undertake graduate-level academic work, such as a former professor. If no such person is available to make an evaluation, such as for students who completed their undergraduate work more than four years prior to the application date, the applicant must submit a third letter of recommendation.
Transcripts from all previously attended institutions
A one-page personal statement describing reasons and expectations for study in the program
GRE scores will be considered as part of an application but are not required
Getting your master's in public administration means learning effective leadership and managerial skills while building community connections alongside industry professionals.
Flexible Learning Environment
Take the inside track to success with the MPA program. We tailor to both working professionals and recent graduates with courses offered on weekday evenings and a customizable experience to meet your professional needs. Choose from four specializations or select elective courses that best fit your career goals.
Distinguished Faculty
At Widener, you'll learn from a mix of distinguished faculty and working professionals in all core and elective courses to further your career and build a network that will follow you long after graduation.
Faculty
As public administration educators, our faculty will work with you to customize your degree for a rewarding education, career, and future.
"Our students care about furthering positive outcomes in society. My goal in the classroom is to help them do this by building managerial and leadership skills that improve work performance in the near term and aid career advancement."
Widener is preparing students to live, work, and lead in the green economy through interdisciplinary academic programs that take a broader look at environmental health and sustainability.
Numerous Widener students and alumni have carved out successful careers in government and politics, working both behind the scenes and in elected positions.
At Widener, success means more than a graduate degree. That's why our graduates can be found on various career paths.
Outlook & Outcomes
Potential Careers
Nonprofit, executive director
Local government or higher education administrator
City manager
Nonprofit fundraiser/marketer
Public agency manager
Recent Employers
Creative Education Opportunities, Inc.
Human Resources, City of Philadelphia
Pennsylvania Farm Bureau
Economic Development Authority, City of York, PA
American Friends Services
Student Stories
"I am very fortunate to have come to this country and received one of the best educations. My mindset now is ‘how can I give that type of opportunity to others back home in Guinea?’"
To visit Widener is to fall in love with the place. But don't take our word—experience it for yourself. Plan a visit to connect with our students, faculty, and staff.
Because Widener is a private institution, we're able to offer financial assistance that brings an exceptional education within reach. Complete your admissions application today to determine your financial aid package, including scholarships and grants.
Apply
We’re glad you made the decision to apply. All applications and supplemental materials are submitted through the online application system. There is a $35 application fee to apply to Widener.