Master of Public Administration

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Program Introduction

Dordt University's Master of Public Administration (MPA) program focuses on providing a Christ-centered education and is 100% online. Plus, Dordt's MPA offers three tracks to choose from so your education fits your needs. The coursework is designed for those who work in areas such as government, public service, or nonprofit environments. The coursework is collaborative, and Dordt's engaging faculty provide practical applications to the concepts they teach.

Next Start Date: May 14, 2025

Cost Per Credit: $575

Program Overview

The MPA program is affordable and designed for working professionals. By earning a degree in Dordt’s MPA program, you will feel equipped to serve others in management positions in a variety of industries such as nonprofit, city or county government, and law enforcement. We have alumni serving in positions such as police officer, sheriff's deputy, public works director, city manager, city clerk, city communication manager, policy analyst, nonprofit executive director, and more.

Drawing on the depth of the Kuyperian tradition that Dordt was founded on, Dordt’s MPA program is not only informed by a deep Christian worldview but is also rooted in a vision of Christian engagement that emphasizes the value of societal institutions.

“Dordt's MPA program pushed me to think of broader theories and how to apply them to my current workplace and many of the assignments were very practical and focused directly on my work or organization. There are a couple books that I still refer to or have used in other contexts. I've also used and adapted some of the assignments from the Dordt MPA to my work."

- Daniel Zekfeld, Graduate

Specializations

The Dordt University Master of Public Administration degree program offers three program tracks to help students focus their learning for their projected career path:

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Cost

Tuition & Fees

Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are as follows:

  • Graduate Courses: $575/credit
  • One-time Technology Fee: $100
  • Program Completion Fee: $100

Graduate courses taken for graduate credit are worth three credits.

Financial Aid

In an effort to make graduate education at Dordt available to as many people as possible, program costs are kept as reasonable as possible. Financial aid in the form of federal loan programs is available. Students who wish to apply online should go to www.fafsa.ed.gov. For more information, contact Harlan Harmelink in the Financial Aid Office at (712) 722-6082.

Some scholarships & grants are also available.

The Dordt University Federal ID is #001859.

FAQs

How many credits are required for the MPA program?

The MPA program is made up of 36 credits. The courses are a combination of general public administration courses, emphasis-specific courses, and electives that deal with relevant, challenging issues.

How long will the program take?

All of Dordt's graduate programs are designed to be complete in two years.

What will my class schedule look like?

You advisor will work with you to establish a schedule that will allow you to live your life and also get your degree.

Can I complete this program while working a full-time job?

Yes! This program is part-time and 100% online, with synchronous and asynchronous activities, allowing for you to work and study, no problem.

Can I participate if I don't live in the United States?

Of course! We have had students from across the globe - no matter where, we'll work with you.

Where do I apply?

Right here!

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Graduate Student Stories

Check out some stories from other Dordt graduate students.

The Power of Policy

Daniel Zekveld

Daniel Zekveld

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Guided by Compassion

Brenna Brouwer

Brenna Brouwer

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Leading With Vision

Pamela Szmyrko

Pamela Szmyrko

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Deputized to Lead

Alex Pruismann

“The MPA program allowed me to learn how to lead from different angles and take many things into consideration while making decisions."

Alex Pruismann

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Danica Buys hands out gifts to small children.

Social Work Partner Program Leads to Purposeful Work

Danica Buys

“Dordt University allowed me to dive deep into my passions, learning everything possible about community practice and administration through my class and field placement experiences.”

Danica Buys

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Cultivating Christ-Centered Connections

Emma Groen

Emma Groen, a dedicated softball player and nursing student, finds joy in the strong bonds she shares with her teammates and the opportunity to demonstrate Christ-like love on and off the field.

Emma Groen

Read More

Related Programs

Still looking for the right fit? Here are some additional program options that we think might interest you. You can also view the programs page to keep exploring your options.

Graduate Education News and Events

Read some recent articles about Dordt's graduate programs, and connect with us at an upcoming event!