Increase your impact as a change agent.
Whether your goal is to bring positive change to your local community or to advance a cause you feel passionate about, our Master of Public Administration (MPA) program equips you with the leadership and analytical skills you need to realize your vision. Join us to boost your influence and effectiveness in driving meaningful change in the public sector and nonprofit arenas.
A lifetime credential that sets you apart
- Receive your degree from a globally recognized and accredited university. The Clark MPA is aligned with the standards of the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPPA) the global standard in public service education. Our program is also built upon the principles of the American Society Public Adminstration (ASPA) Code of Ethics.
- Build key competencies in leadership, policy development and analysis, nonprofit management, educational leadership, crisis communication, and research and data analytical skills
- Experiential learning opportunities such as internships and service-learning projects in the MPA program allow students to apply classroom theory to real-world public and nonprofit challenges. These experiences build practical skills, expand professional networks, and enhance career readiness by bridging the gap between academic study and leadership practice.
- Learn in a highly collaborative academic environment with talented peers from all over the world and scholar-practitioners who share their deep leadership experience with you
Clark’s Master of Public Administration equips students with a solid academic foundation and training in research methods, public management, public affairs, nonprofit leadership, program development and evaluation, and public budgeting .
Start terms for the MPA program are Fall, Spring, and Summer. Each course is taught by a leading expert in their field.
10 course units
- 7 core courses, including a Capstone project
- 3 electives
The job market for skilled public administrators and civil servants in the United States is expanding, creating many opportunities for a new generation of skilled professionals. Through Clark’s MPA program, you learn strategies to address the complex issues in public administration or non profit management , and successfully implementing solutions at your current job, as an intern, or as a student-consultant for a company.
‘Pride in my community’
Clarkies learn about nonprofit management by volunteering in Worcester
Leadership
Policy Analysis
Program Development and Evaluation
Crisis Management
Arbitration, Collective Bargaining and Labor Relations
Disaster Risk Management
World Bank
Director of Public Works
Town of Hopkinton, MA
Executive Director
Worcester Community Action Council
Program Manager
Massachusetts Attorney General Office
“I was interested in public policy and making an impact on my community, and Clark helped me do that. Everyone at Clark is committed to making a difference in the lives of those around them – locally, nationally, and globally.”
— Bongani T. Jeranyama, B.A. ‘15, MPA ‘16
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the program requirements and structure of the MPA at Clark?
The MPA requires 10 course units: 7 core courses (including a Capstone project) plus 3 electives.
What skills and competencies will I gain from the program?
You’ll develop decision‑making and problem‑solving skills; policy and program development, implementation, and evaluation; conflict management; finance, fundraising, project management; ethics and social responsibility; and communication and leadership capabilities in public and nonprofit sectors.
Are there flexible scheduling options (online, part‑time, etc.)?
Yes. Clark’s MPA is delivered in multiple formats: on campus, online, or hybrid. Also, terms begin in Fall, Spring, and Summer, allowing you flexibility in timing and pacing your studies.
Can my prior work or professional experience count toward the degree?
Yes. If you have three or more years of professional experience or hold an industry‑standard certification, you may apply for Assessment of Prior Learning (APL) credit. Up to two graduate courses may be granted via APL (with applicable administrative fee), but this is only for the Worcester campus location.
What are the outcomes and career opportunities after finishing the MPA?
Graduates are well prepared for leadership roles in government, nonprofit, healthcare, education, public policy, public works, and community services. Career examples include Program Manager, Executive Director, Program Director, Director of Public Works, roles in disaster risk management, or municipal and state attorney positions among others.
Academic Excellence. Global Reach. Career Success.
Join our supportive community of scholars. Ready to take the next step?