Best Online Master of Public Administration (MPA) Programs in New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers unique opportunities for students pursuing a public administration degree. With its commitment to small-town governance, vibrant nonprofit sector, and strong public service traditions, the Granite State is an ideal place to gain leadership and management skills.
Online MPA programs in New Hampshire provide flexible options for working professionals. They combine rigorous academic standards with practical applications. Whether focusing on local government, nonprofit management, or roles in the private sector, a master’s in public administration equips students with the tools to drive meaningful change across various sectors.
Table of Contents
2026 Best Online Master's in Public Administration (MPA) in New Hampshire
University of New Hampshire
Durham, NH - Public 4-Year - unh.edu
Master's - Master of Public Administration
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of New Hampshire's online Master of Public Administration program offers a flexible, 100% online format ideal for working professionals seeking to advance in public service. Students can complete this degree in 12-16 months without GRE requirements, choosing between Management and Leadership or Program Planning and Development tracks. The program features competitive tuition and multiple entry points with fall and spring application deadlines, preparing graduates for leadership roles in government and nonprofit sectors through practical, career-focused education.
- 100% online, part-time friendly
- Two specialized capstone tracks
- No GRE required for admission
Master's - Master of Public Administration
Concentration: Management and Leadership - Online Learning - Visit Website
Focusing on the Management and Leadership concentration, UNH's online MPA program develops strategic leaders for public service organizations. This 100% online program requires no GRE and can be completed in as little as 12 months, offering both 30-credit Executive and 36-credit standard MPA options. The curriculum emphasizes leadership development, policy analysis, and organizational management, preparing professionals for advanced roles in government and nonprofit sectors through flexible, part-time study options.
- 100% online, part-time friendly program
- Two capstone tracks: Management and Development
- No GRE required for admission
Master's - Master of Public Administration
Concentration: Program Planning and Development - Online Learning - Visit Website
Specializing in Program Planning and Development, UNH's online MPA program equips professionals with skills to design and implement effective public programs. This 100% online degree requires no GRE and offers completion in 12-16 months through Executive or standard MPA tracks. Students benefit from competitive tuition, scholarship opportunities for various professional backgrounds, and practical capstone experiences that prepare them for successful careers in public service program management and development.
- 100% online, part-time friendly program
- Two specialized capstone track options
- No GRE required for admission
University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies Online
Manchester, NH - Public 4-Year - cps.unh.edu
Master's - Master of Public Administration
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies Online offers a 100% online Master of Public Administration designed for working professionals seeking leadership roles in public service. This flexible program provides two track options: a 30-credit Executive MPA for experienced professionals and a 36-credit standard MPA, both completable in 12-16 months. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills in policy analysis, program evaluation, organizational management, and leadership development through capstone projects. No GRE is required for admission, and the program features two cohort starts annually with electives from multiple departments.
- 100% Online Delivery
- No GRE Required
- Two Program Options: Executive/Standard MPA
- 12-16 Month Completion Time
- Two Cohort Starts Annually
- Management and Leadership Track
- Program Planning Development Track
- Advanced Core Curriculum Courses
- Capstone Project Experience
- Electives from Multiple Departments
Master's - Executive Master of Public Administration
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies Online delivers an Executive Master of Public Administration entirely online, tailored for midcareer professionals with five or more years of experience. This accelerated program can be completed in as little as 12 months through an eight-week term structure and flexible part-time learning. Students choose between Management and Leadership or Program Planning and Development tracks, focusing on practical administrative competencies in public and nonprofit sectors. The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with real-world applications in policy analysis and nonprofit management. Admission does not require the GRE, making it accessible for busy professionals advancing their careers.
- 100% Online Program
- No GRE Required
- 12-16 Month Completion Time
- Two Capstone Track Options
- Midcareer Professional Options
- 30-36 Credit Program
- Eight-Week Term Structure
- Flexible Part-Time Learning
Fastest Online MPA Degree Programs in New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers some of the quickest and shortest online MPA programs for students eager to complete their education efficiently. These programs allow students to balance their careers with accelerated coursework while maintaining high academic standards.
| School Name | Program Length | Format |
|---|---|---|
| University of New Hampshire (UNH) | 12–18 months | Online |
| Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) | 18–24 months | Online |
To explore additional accelerated learning opportunities, visit the Fastest Online Master of Public Administration (MPA) Programs page.
Affordable MPA Degree Programs in New Hampshire
New Hampshire provides cost-effective options for students pursuing an MPA degree. These programs combine competitive tuition rates with financial aid opportunities, making them accessible to many learners.
| School Name | Tuition Range | Format |
|---|---|---|
| University of New Hampshire (UNH) | $12,000–$18,000 | Online |
| Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) | $10,000–$15,000 | Online |
For more insights into cost-effective education options, visit the Affordable Online Master of Public Administration (MPA) Programs page.
Admissions Requirements for Public Administration Programs in New Hampshire
Admissions criteria for New Hampshire’s public administration degree programs ensure students are well-prepared for rigorous graduate studies. Typical requirements include:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Letters of recommendation (2–3).
- A personal statement detailing career goals and motivations.
- GRE or GMAT scores (optional for many programs).
For detailed admissions information, visit the admissions pages for the University of New Hampshire and Southern New Hampshire University.
Curriculum and Coursework in New Hampshire’s MPA Programs
MPA programs in New Hampshire offer a comprehensive curriculum focused on leadership, public policy affairs, and program evaluation. Students develop a strong foundation in financial management, human resource management, and nonprofit management.
Core Courses
- Public Policy Analysis
- Leadership in Public Management
- Financial Management and Budgeting
- Human Resource Management
- Program Evaluation Techniques
- Data Analysis for Decision-Making
Elective Courses
- Nonprofit Management
- City Management
- Emergency Management
Practical experiences like capstone projects or internships allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, making these graduate programs highly effective.
Careers in Public Administration in New Hampshire
Graduates of New Hampshire’s online MPA programs are well-equipped for diverse roles in public service, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector. These careers offer opportunities to leverage leadership and management skills to make a significant impact.
Popular Career Paths
- City Manager: Overseeing municipal operations and implementing long-term strategies for community development.
- Emergency Management Director: Leading disaster preparedness and recovery initiatives.
- Nonprofit Executive Director: Managing organizational strategy and resource allocation to achieve mission-driven goals.
- Human Resources Manager: Developing and implementing workforce strategies in public or private organizations.
Prominent Employers in New Hampshire
- State of New Hampshire Government
- City of Manchester
- New Hampshire Charitable Foundation
- Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission
Licensure and Certifications in New Hampshire
Certifications can enhance career prospects for MPA graduates, providing a competitive edge in the job market. Popular certifications include:
- Certified Public Manager (CPM): Focused on leadership and innovation in public management.
- Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM): Specialized in financial management and accounting for government agencies.
- Certified Emergency Manager (CEM): Designed for professionals managing disaster preparedness and response.
Advantages of Online MPA Programs in New Hampshire
Online MPA programs in New Hampshire offer unparalleled flexibility for students balancing professional and personal commitments. Benefits include:
- Accessibility to a broader network of schools and resources.
- Opportunities for real-world application of skills while studying.
- Cost savings through reduced travel and relocation expenses.
- Enhanced career prospects through specialized coursework and certifications.
Sources
- University of New Hampshire MPA Program
- Southern New Hampshire University MPA Program
- State of New Hampshire Government
- New Hampshire Charitable Foundation
- Certified Public Manager Program
Acknowledgment
We thank New Hampshire’s universities, public agencies, and nonprofit organizations for contributing to this guide. Your dedication to education and public service inspires the leaders of tomorrow.