Best Online Master of Public Administration Programs in Tennessee
Compare accreditation, tuition, concentrations, and career outcomes for every Tennessee MPA program worth considering.
By Holly AbramsonReviewed by PAP Editoral TeamUpdated June 3, 202622 min read
What you’ll learn in this article…
NASPAA accredited MPA programs in Tennessee include options at the University of Tennessee Knoxville and other public universities.
The cheapest online MPA in Tennessee can cost under $25,000 in total tuition at select public institutions.
Median first year earnings for Tennessee MPA graduates generally range from roughly $45,000 to over $60,000.
Most Tennessee MPA programs now offer GRE waivers for applicants who meet minimum GPA or professional experience thresholds.
Tennessee's three largest metro areas, Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville, together added more than 40,000 state and local government jobs over the past decade, and the pipeline of trained public administrators has not kept pace. The state's MPA landscape is small but competitive: six programs span public flagships and private institutions, with annual graduate tuition ranging from roughly $8,300 at Cumberland University to over $17,000 at Lipscomb University. Three of those programs carry NASPAA accreditation, the credential most hiring managers in city management and federal service treat as a baseline.
The real tension for prospective students is balancing that accreditation premium against cost and format. Fully online options exist alongside hybrid models that require periodic campus visits, and GRE policies vary sharply, from full waivers to conditional exemptions. For working professionals already embedded in Tennessee's public or nonprofit sectors, the calculus hinges on whether a lower-cost, non-accredited program delivers comparable career mobility or whether the NASPAA designation justifies the added expense. If you are weighing Tennessee's options against the broader national landscape, our guide to the best online mpa programs provides a useful benchmark for comparison.
Best Online MPA Programs in Tennessee: Rankings Overview
The following programs represent Tennessee's strongest options for earning a Master of Public Administration online or through a hybrid format. Each school was evaluated on a composite of affordability, institutional quality, and career outcomes rather than any single factor. Note that graduation rates shown reflect institution-wide figures, not MPA-specific completion data, and program-level earnings are not yet available for these degrees.
NCES-IPEDS federal institutional data — nces.ed.gov
Independent program research
Internal program database
#1
Tennessee State University
Nashville, TN · $9,000 – $22,000/yr
Best for: Budget-focused professionals seeking NASPAA accreditation
Tennessee State University is the only NASPAA-accredited MPA provider in Middle Tennessee and delivers its entire 36-credit program online, making it one of the most accessible options for working professionals across the state. As a historically Black university in Nashville, TSU places students near the state capitol and a dense nonprofit ecosystem, while its graduate certificate bridge path gives applicants with GPAs between 2.5 and 2.69 a structured on-ramp to the full degree. In-state tuition runs approximately $11,188 per year, and the program can be completed in two years with no GRE requirement.
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Master of Public Administration — Online
Fully online, 36-credit NASPAA-accredited program
No GRE required for admission
Two-year completion with part-time, year-round scheduling
In-state tuition approximately $11,188 per year
Graduate certificate bridge path for GPAs of 2.5 to 2.69
Faculty trained specifically in online instruction
Concentrations in Public Policy, Nonprofit Management, and Local Government Management
Pre-service internship required; waived for in-service students
Best for: Local government employees valuing small cohorts
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga holds the distinction of being East Tennessee's only NASPAA-accredited MPA program, offering a hybrid format with intentionally small class sizes of 8 to 15 students. UTC's predictable scheduling and graduate assistantships (with tuition waivers and stipends) make it especially practical for state employees and local government professionals. In-state tuition is approximately $11,110 per year, with out-of-state students paying around $19,174, and the program also prepares students for the Certified Municipal Finance Officer exam.
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Master of Public Administration — Hybrid
Hybrid format with small classes of 8 to 15 students
NASPAA-accredited, the only such program in East Tennessee
In-state tuition approximately $11,110 per year
GRE waived for applicants with a 3.25 GPA or graduate degree
Graduate assistantships include stipend and tuition waiver
Fee waivers available for Tennessee state employees
Concentrations in Local Government Management and Nonprofit Management
Certified Municipal Finance Officer exam preparation included
Best for: Mid-career professionals at a flagship university
The University of Tennessee at Knoxville pairs the state's flagship research institution with a flexible online MPA built around a cohort-based instructional model and asynchronous coursework. Distance students must bring at least two years of professional experience, and the program includes an in-person orientation plus a symposium before graduation, blending online convenience with meaningful face-to-face touchpoints. In-state tuition sits around $15,972 per year, with out-of-state tuition near $34,760, but the institution posts the highest median alumni earnings among Tennessee schools on this list at $60,249 ten years after enrollment.
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Master of Public Administration, Policy Analytics — On-Campus
36-credit program offered both on campus and via distance education
Cohort-based online model with asynchronous coursework
In-person orientation and pre-graduation symposium required
Concentrations include Policy Analytics and Non-Profit Management
Executive practicum replaces traditional internship for distance students
Accelerated BS/MPA pathway counts up to 9 credits toward degree
Requires two years of professional experience for distance option
The University of Memphis delivers a 39-credit, NASPAA-accredited MPA through a hybrid format that includes evening classes and online coursework tailored to the Memphis and Mid-South region. The program's practice-based curriculum focuses on urban management and community engagement, drawing on partnerships with local government agencies and nonprofits. With in-state tuition at roughly $11,628 and out-of-state tuition around $15,840, Memphis offers one of the narrowest in-state-to-out-of-state tuition gaps in this ranking.
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Master of Public Administration, nonprofit administration — Hybrid
39-credit NASPAA-accredited program with hybrid delivery
Evening classes designed for working professionals
In-state tuition approximately $11,628; out-of-state $15,840
Concentrations in Nonprofit Administration and Public Policy/Management
Lipscomb University's hybrid MPA in downtown Nashville can be completed in as few as 16 months through a small-cohort model with classes held two weekends per month. Each student receives mentorship from practicing government and nonprofit professionals, and the 36-credit curriculum culminates in a personalized capstone project. As a private institution, Lipscomb charges a flat rate of approximately $17,334 per year regardless of residency, and no GRE is required for admission.
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Master of Public Administration (MPA) — Hybrid
36-credit hybrid program completable in roughly 16 months
Weekend class schedule compatible with full-time employment
Flat tuition of approximately $17,334 per year for all students
No GRE required for admission
Small cohort model with personalized mentorship
Capstone project tailored to individual career interests
Located in downtown Nashville near state agencies and nonprofits
Cumberland University in Lebanon offers a Master of Public Service Management, a two-year hybrid program spread across five consecutive semesters that targets professionals in public, nonprofit, and social service sectors. The curriculum covers human relations, management, research methods, cultural diversity, and media relations. At approximately $8,280 per year, Cumberland carries the lowest published tuition figure among all schools in this ranking, though it is not NASPAA-accredited.
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Master of Public Service Management — Hybrid
Two-year program structured across five consecutive semesters
Hybrid format designed for working professionals
Published tuition approximately $8,280 per year
No entrance exam required for admission
Coursework spans management, research, and cultural diversity
Focused on public service, nonprofit, and social service leadership
NASPAA (the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration) accreditation is the gold standard for graduate programs in public administration. If you are serious about career competitiveness in government or the nonprofit sector, understanding which Tennessee MPA programs carry this credential should be one of your first steps.
What NASPAA Accreditation Actually Means
NASPAA accreditation signals that a program has passed a rigorous peer-review process evaluating its curriculum design, faculty qualifications, public-service mission alignment, and student learning outcomes. Accredited programs must demonstrate that graduates leave with competencies in areas like policy analysis, organizational management, and ethical leadership. Some federal agencies and state civil-service systems give preference to applicants who hold degrees from NASPAA-accredited programs, and many competitive fellowships require it.
One critical nuance: NASPAA accredits the program, not the institution. A university can hold regional institutional accreditation while its MPA program lacks NASPAA recognition, or a campus-based MPA may be accredited while an online variant is not. Tennessee students should always confirm that the specific delivery format they plan to enroll in falls under the accreditation umbrella. Under current NASPAA policy, accreditation covers all campuses and delivery formats of an approved program.1
Tennessee Programs With Current NASPAA Accreditation
As of the 2025-2026 academic year, six programs in the state hold active NASPAA accreditation, and all six have their online or hybrid delivery modes covered under that accreditation.2 Whether you are comparing these options against best online mpa programs nationally or focusing strictly on Tennessee, here is what each school brings to the table:
University of Tennessee, Knoxville: Offers a fully online, 36-credit MPA with concentrations in Policy Analytics and Non-Profit Management. Online delivery is covered under NASPAA accreditation.2
Tennessee State University (Nashville): A fully online, 36-credit MPA with multiple concentrations. As a historically Black university, TSU adds a distinct perspective to public-service education. Online delivery is covered.3
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga: A hybrid MPA with small class sizes and concentrations in Local Government Management and Nonprofit Management. Online delivery is covered.4
University of Memphis: A 39-credit hybrid MPA emphasizing urban management and Mid-South regional policy. Online delivery is covered.2
Cumberland University (Lebanon): Offers a NASPAA-accredited Master of Public Service Management rather than a traditional MPA. The hybrid format is covered under accreditation.2
Strayer University, Tennessee: A nationally recognized institution with NASPAA-accredited online MPA offerings. Online delivery is covered.2
When Accreditation Is Not the Only Factor
Not every program you will encounter in Tennessee carries this credential. Some schools, like Lipscomb University in Nashville, offer well-regarded MPA programs with strong mentorship and practical capstone experiences but do not hold NASPAA accreditation. That does not automatically disqualify them from consideration.
The right choice depends on your career goals. If you plan to pursue senior federal positions, competitive masters in public policy online fellowships, or roles in agencies that specify NASPAA credentials in their job postings, accreditation is essentially non-negotiable. If you are pivoting into local nonprofit leadership or community-based work where hands-on experience and network connections carry more weight, a non-accredited program with lower tuition or a faster timeline might serve you well.
Also keep in mind that accreditation status is not permanent. Several Tennessee programs are currently undergoing or approaching their next review cycle, including Tennessee State University (accreditation expiring August 31, 2026)3 and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga5, both of which have reviews scheduled for 2025-2026. Programs can lose accreditation if they fail to meet updated standards, so verify current status through the NASPAA roster of accredited programs before you apply.
For a comprehensive look at how these accredited programs compare on cost, format, and admissions requirements, explore the detailed breakdowns elsewhere in this guide.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Do you need NASPAA accreditation for the roles you are targeting?
Many state and local government positions in Tennessee prefer or require a NASPAA-accredited MPA. If you are eyeing nonprofit leadership or private-sector consulting instead, a lower-cost, non-accredited program may serve you equally well at a fraction of the price.
Are you planning to build your career in Tennessee, or could your MPA lead to federal or out-of-state opportunities?
Programs with strong alumni networks inside Tennessee state agencies offer a clear advantage for local careers. If you anticipate relocating or pursuing federal roles, prioritize programs with nationally recognized concentrations and broader placement records.
Can you attend occasional on-campus residencies, or do you need a fully asynchronous format?
Some Tennessee MPA programs blend online coursework with required weekend or summer residencies. If travel to campus is not feasible due to work, family, or geography, confirm that the program you choose offers a completely asynchronous option.
What is your realistic budget, and have you explored in-state tuition eligibility?
Tuition across Tennessee MPA programs can vary by thousands of dollars per credit hour. Establishing Tennessee residency or qualifying for a tuition waiver through a public employer can significantly reduce your total cost.
How quickly do you need to finish, and can your employer accommodate a heavier course load?
Accelerated tracks let you complete an MPA in as few as 18 months, but they demand a bigger weekly time commitment. If your job offers tuition support tied to part-time enrollment, a slower pace may be the smarter financial move.
Tuition and Affordability: Which Tennessee MPA Is Cheapest?
Cost is one of the most important factors when choosing an MPA program, and Tennessee offers a wide range of price points across its public and private institutions. The table below compares annual tuition rates (in-state and out-of-state) alongside institution-wide average net price figures. Keep in mind that net price reflects an institution-wide average after financial aid for undergraduate students and may not precisely mirror what you will pay for a graduate MPA program. Always confirm program-specific tuition and fee schedules directly with each school.
Online vs. Hybrid: Format and Flexibility for Working Professionals
Choosing between a fully online and a hybrid MPA program in Tennessee comes down to how you learn best, where you live, and how much flexibility your schedule demands. The good news is that the state's programs span a range of delivery formats, so there is likely an option that fits your life.
Fully Online Programs
Tennessee State University stands out as the only program in the state that is delivered entirely online. Its MPA uses an asynchronous format, meaning there are no set class meeting times. You complete coursework on your own schedule each week, which is a significant advantage if you work rotating shifts, travel frequently, or live outside Tennessee. The program is structured for part-time, year-round enrollment and can be completed in about two years.
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville also delivers its MPA coursework fully online through asynchronous modules, using a team-cohort learning model. Students move through the curriculum with a defined group of peers, which helps replicate some of the collaborative energy of an in-person classroom even though no one needs to log in at the same time. If you are exploring online mpa programs beyond Tennessee, fully asynchronous options like these have become the standard nationwide.
Hybrid Programs
Several Tennessee MPA programs blend online coursework with periodic in-person requirements. The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga operates a hybrid MPA that includes on-campus or evening sessions, with class sizes typically ranging from eight to fifteen students. That small-group environment fosters direct relationships with faculty who are often active practitioners in regional government and nonprofits.
Lipscomb University takes a cohort-based hybrid approach centered on weekend class sessions at its Nashville campus, designed so students can keep working full time during the week. The program can be completed in roughly 15 to 16 months, making it one of the faster options in the state.
The University of Memphis and Cumberland University also use hybrid models. Memphis offers evening and online course options that accommodate professionals in the Mid-South region, while Cumberland structures its Master of Public Service Management across five consecutive semesters over two years with a mix of online and on-site components.
Part-Time Pacing and Accelerated Tracks
Most of these programs welcome part-time enrollment, and working professionals can typically spread their coursework over three to four years if needed. Accelerated timelines are available at Lipscomb (about 15 months) and Tennessee State (two years with continuous enrollment). If you are mid-career and want to minimize disruption, a fully online asynchronous program lets you study from anywhere without relocating. However, hybrid formats often deliver something online-only programs cannot easily replicate: face-to-face networking with state legislators, city managers, and nonprofit directors who serve as guest speakers or adjunct faculty.
Which Format Suits You Best?
Consider these factors when deciding:
Geography: If you live outside a major Tennessee metro area, a fully online program removes commute barriers entirely.
Networking goals: Hybrid programs with in-person sessions tend to build stronger local professional connections, which matters if you plan to work in Tennessee government or nonprofits.
Schedule predictability: Asynchronous courses let you study at 2 a.m. or on a lunch break; synchronous or weekend residency models require you to block specific dates.
Completion speed: Accelerated cohort tracks at Lipscomb or Tennessee State can get you to graduation faster, while part-time pacing at UTC or Memphis allows a gentler workload.
Keep in mind that "program type" labels can be somewhat fluid. A program listed as hybrid may require only a handful of campus visits per year, while a program described as online might include a short orientation or capstone presentation on campus. Always confirm the exact in-person expectations with each school's admissions office before you commit.
Admissions Requirements and GRE Waiver Policies
Admissions standards for online MPA programs in Tennessee vary by institution, so treating each application as its own project is essential. Below is a practical, step-by-step approach to gathering the information you need before you apply.
Confirm GPA Minimums and GRE Expectations
Most Tennessee MPA programs, including those at the University of Tennessee Knoxville and Tennessee State University, require a minimum undergraduate GPA for admission, often in the 2.5 to 3.0 range depending on the school and whether you hold a graduate degree already. GRE requirements differ widely. Some programs have moved toward GRE-optional or GRE-waiver policies, particularly for applicants with significant professional experience or a strong academic record. These policies can shift from one admissions cycle to the next, so always verify directly on each university's graduate admissions page rather than relying on third-party summaries.
Contact Admissions Offices Directly
GRE waiver criteria are not always published in full on program websites. If you have five or more years of relevant public sector or nonprofit experience, hold a professional credential, or already earned a graduate degree, you may qualify for a waiver that is granted on a case-by-case basis. Reaching out to the graduate coordinator or admissions office by email or phone is the most reliable way to confirm your eligibility. Ask specifically about:
GRE waiver criteria: Professional experience thresholds, GPA cutoffs, or alternative assessments that may substitute for standardized test scores.
Application deadlines: Fall 2025 and spring 2026 deadlines can differ, and some programs use rolling admissions while others enforce firm cutoff dates.
Prerequisite coursework: A few programs expect foundational work in statistics, political science, or economics. Others embed this content into the early curriculum.
Review Work Experience and Prerequisite Requirements
Some Tennessee MPA programs value professional experience as both an admissions factor and a learning resource within cohort-based courses. Programs at UT Knoxville, for example, attract mid-career professionals and may weigh work history alongside your transcripts. Tennessee State University similarly considers professional background in its holistic review. To get a realistic picture of what successful applicants look like, consider connecting with current students or alumni through LinkedIn or university-hosted webinars. Applicants exploring mpa programs in other states will notice that GRE waiver policies and experience requirements follow similar patterns nationwide.
Use Authoritative Sources for Career Context
While university websites and NASPAA (the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration) are your best resources for program-specific accreditation details and admission standards, the Bureau of Labor Statistics at BLS.gov provides helpful context on the career landscape you will enter after graduation. Understanding median salaries and projected job growth for roles in public administration can help you frame the investment an MPA requires and ask sharper questions during the admissions process.
Taking these steps before you submit a single application puts you in control and ensures you are comparing programs on accurate, current information rather than outdated assumptions.
Curriculum, Concentrations, and Capstone Options
Tennessee's MPA programs share a common foundation in public budgeting, organizational management, policy analysis, and ethics, yet they diverge meaningfully in specialization tracks and culminating requirements. The comparison below highlights how each program lets you tailor the degree to Tennessee's high-demand public sector areas, including nonprofit management, local government, healthcare policy, and public finance. All programs listed require 36 credits except the University of Memphis, which requires 39.
Program
Total Credits
Available Concentrations
Culminating Experience
Thesis Required
University of Tennessee, Knoxville (Online MPA)
36
Policy Analytics, Nonprofit Management
Executive Practicum: 6-credit applied project completed in a team cohort model
No
Tennessee State University (Online MPA)
36
Nonprofit Management, Public Management, Health Care Administration (graduate certificates also available)
Internship: 300 hours (6 credits); waiver available for experienced professionals
No
East Tennessee State University (Online MPA)
36
Nonprofit Administration, Local Government Management, Public Finance, Healthcare Administration
Capstone seminar or applied project
No
University of Tennessee, Chattanooga (Hybrid MPA)
36
Local Government Management, Nonprofit Management
Capstone or comprehensive exam (includes Certified Municipal Finance Officer exam prep)
No
University of Memphis (Hybrid MPA)
39
Nonprofit Administration, Public Policy and Management
Internship and community engagement project with Mid-South regional focus
No
Lipscomb University (Hybrid MPA)
36
General public administration (leadership development, state finance focus)
Capstone project tailored to the student's professional interests
No
Cumberland University (Hybrid MPSM)
Varies (five-semester sequence)
Public service and nonprofit management (coursework in cultural diversity, media relations, statistics)
Applied research component integrated into final semester
No
Career Outcomes and Earnings After Graduation
Program-level earnings data for Tennessee MPA graduates is not yet available from federal reporting sources, so we turn to Bureau of Labor Statistics occupation-level figures to frame earning potential. Management analysts and general managers represent two of the most common career paths for MPA holders in the state. Nashville consistently leads Memphis in median pay for both roles, reflecting the capital city's concentration of state government agencies, healthcare systems, and nonprofit headquarters.
Tennessee's most affordable online MPA options can come in under $25,000 in total tuition, and median first-year earnings for graduates from the state's programs generally range from roughly $45,000 to over $60,000. That means many students can recoup their degree investment within just a few years of entering or advancing in public service, making the MPA one of the stronger ROI propositions in graduate education.
FAQs About Tennessee MPA Programs
Choosing the right MPA program involves sorting through accreditation details, timelines, costs, and career prospects. Below are answers to the most common questions prospective students ask about online MPA programs in Tennessee, drawn from current program information and public sector hiring trends.
Which Tennessee MPA programs are NASPAA accredited?
As of 2026, NASPAA accredited MPA programs in Tennessee include those at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK), the University of Memphis, and Tennessee State University. NASPAA accreditation signals that a program meets rigorous standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, and student outcomes. If employer recognition and career mobility matter to you, prioritizing a NASPAA accredited program is a strong move.
How long does it take to complete an online MPA in Tennessee?
Most online MPA programs in Tennessee require 36 to 42 credit hours and can be completed in roughly two years of full time study. Part time students typically finish in three to four years. Some programs, such as UTK's online MPA, offer accelerated scheduling that allows motivated students to finish sooner. Program length can also vary depending on whether a capstone project, thesis, or internship is required.
Which is the cheapest online MPA program in Tennessee?
Tennessee State University generally offers one of the most affordable MPA options in the state, particularly for in state residents. The University of Memphis also provides competitive tuition for its online MPA. When comparing costs, factor in per credit hour rates, fees, and whether the program charges the same tuition for in state and out of state online students. Always confirm current tuition directly with each university, as rates change annually.
Do Tennessee MPA programs require the GRE?
GRE policies vary by program. The University of Tennessee, Knoxville offers GRE waivers for applicants who meet certain criteria, such as holding a graduate degree or demonstrating substantial professional experience. Tennessee State University and the University of Memphis have also adopted flexible GRE policies in recent years. Check each program's latest admissions page, as waiver eligibility requirements are updated frequently.
What can you do with an MPA degree in Tennessee?
An MPA opens doors to leadership roles in city and county government, state agencies, nonprofit management, healthcare administration, and public policy analysis. In Tennessee, graduates commonly pursue positions such as city manager, budget analyst, program director, or policy advisor. The state's growing metropolitan areas, including Nashville and Memphis, offer a robust public sector job market, and federal agencies with regional offices in Tennessee also hire MPA holders.
Are online MPA programs respected by public sector employers?
Yes. Public sector employers increasingly view accredited online MPA degrees as equivalent to on campus credentials, especially when the program holds NASPAA accreditation. Hiring managers in government and nonprofit organizations focus on accreditation status, relevant competencies, and professional experience rather than delivery format. Completing an online MPA from a recognized Tennessee institution carries the same institutional name and accreditation as the on campus version.
