Best Online Master of Public Administration (MPA) Programs in Kansas
Kansas is home to some of the best Master of Public Administration (MPA) programs in the nation. These programs equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to lead in public service, nonprofit organizations, and private sector roles. Through flexible online learning and full-time study options, MPA programs in Kansas provide a pathway for professionals to enhance their careers while addressing the unique challenges governments and communities face today.
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2025 Best MPA Programs in Kansas
Kansas offers top-tier Master of Public Administration (MPA) programs designed to develop leaders for impactful careers in public service. These programs emphasize leadership, financial management, policy analysis, and community engagement, equipping graduates to address today’s most pressing public administration challenges.
Whether you’re a working professional seeking flexible online learning or a full-time student aiming to advance your career, Kansas provides exceptional programs to meet your needs.
Note: PAP rankings are based on factors like program cost, accreditation, reputation, and faculty expertise, using data from trusted sources like IPEDS and NCES. Learn more about our methodology
Wichita State University
Wichita, KS
Wichita State University’s MPA program integrates public administration principles with leadership training in a hybrid format designed for flexibility.
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS
The University of Kansas’s Master of Public Administration (City and County Management) is a 40-credit NASPAA-accredited hybrid program with no GRE or GMAT mentioned.
Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS
Kansas State University’s Master of Public Administration (Public Policy) is a hybrid program offering a theoretically informed curriculum with 36-37 credit hours and no GRE requirement.
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS
Fort Hays State University’s Master of Professional Studies in Public Health Administration is a fully online, 30-hour program requiring either the GRE or MAT scores.
These public administration schools prepare graduates for impactful government, nonprofit organizations, and beyond roles.
Fastest Online MPA Degree Programs in Kansas
For professionals seeking to complete their MPA degree efficiently, Kansas provides accelerated programs that combine academic excellence with quicker completion timelines. These shortest routes are ideal for those balancing work and study.
| School Name | Program Length | Format |
|---|---|---|
| University of Kansas | 12 months | Online |
| Emporia State University | 18 months | Hybrid |
Fastest Online Master of Public Administration (MPA) Programs provide additional insights into these accelerated learning options.
Affordable MPA Degree Programs in Kansas
Kansas universities deliver cost-effective and cheapest pathways to earning an MPA degree. With competitive tuition and financial aid opportunities, these programs are accessible to a wide range of students.
| School Name | Tuition Range | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas State University | $10,000–$12,000 | Online |
| Wichita State University | $9,500 | Hybrid |
Affordable Online Master of Public Administration (MPA) Programs offer more details about cost-effective options.
MPA Admissions Requirements in Kansas
Admissions requirements for MPA programs in Kansas are designed to ensure that students have the academic background and work experience necessary to succeed. Typical requirements include:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 (requirements may vary).
- Relevant professional experience for mid-career applicants.
- Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
- A personal statement describing career goals and interest in public administration.
- GRE scores (often waived for applicants with significant experience).
Meeting these admission requirements ensures that students are well-prepared for the rigors of graduate education.
MPA Curriculum in Kansas
MPA programs in Kansas deliver a well-rounded education that combines core public administration courses with specialized electives.
Core Curriculum:
- Financial Management in Public Administration
- Program Evaluation and Analysis
- Ethics in Leadership
- Public Policy Development
- Data-Driven Decision Making
- Leadership and Organizational Behavior
Electives:
Elective courses allow students to specialize in areas such as criminal justice, nonprofit management, and local government. Many programs culminate in a capstone project or practicum, giving students hands-on experience.
Kansas schools of public administration align their curricula with NASPAA standards, ensuring a quality education that meets national accreditation criteria.
Licensure & Certification in Kansas
Graduates of Kansas MPA programs often pursue additional certifications to enhance their qualifications and career opportunities.
- Certified Public Manager (CPM): Builds advanced leadership and management skills.
- Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP): Ideal for roles in nonprofit organizations.
- Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM): Specializes in government budgeting and finance.
These certifications complement the skills gained in an MPA program and open doors to specialized careers.
Careers in Public Administration in Kansas
MPA graduates in Kansas enjoy a wide range of career opportunities in public service, nonprofit management, and private sector leadership.
Career Paths:
- Local Government: City managers, urban planners, and policy analysts.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Executive directors, program managers, and development officers.
- Private Sector: Business administrators and consultants specializing in public policy.
Prominent Employers:
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that management skills and financial acumen are highly sought after in these fields.
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Advantages of Online MPA Programs in Kansas
Online degree programs in Kansas cater to the needs of working professionals by offering flexibility, affordability, and access to top-tier education.
- Flexible Schedules: Students can balance work, family, and studies.
- Cost Savings: Online programs often reduce housing and transportation costs.
- Diverse Opportunities: Students can enroll in the best programs without relocating.
Hybrid formats, which combine online coursework with in-person components, offer the best of both worlds.
Sources
- University of Kansas – Comprehensive Public Administration Curriculum
- Kansas State University – Leadership Development in Public Administration
- Emporia State University – Affordable Graduate Programs
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) – Public Administration Career Outlook
- NASPAA – Accreditation Standards for Public Affairs Education
Acknowledgments
We are grateful to the following organizations for their contributions to this guide:
- NASPAA: To maintain high standards in public administration education.
- University of Kansas: For insights into their comprehensive MPA program.
- Kansas State University: For providing details about their leadership-focused curriculum.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): For valuable career and salary data.
Their expertise ensures this guide remains accurate and relevant for prospective students.