Executive Master of Science in Public Administration

The Mandela College of Government and Social Science

The Department of Public Administration is a part of the Nelson Mandela College of Government and Social Sciences. Mandela College is the only College of Government in the State of Louisiana and its mission is to educate men and women who will engage in an uncompromising pursuit of  justice and equality. 

Department of Public Administration 

Southern University offers the course of study leading to a Master of Science in Public Administration (MPA).This degree program is suitable for individuals interested in finding solutions to community-based, local, state, national, and global issues such as public health, transportation, poverty, and other situations that plague underdeveloped nations.

The department's faculty are committed to providing learning opportunities that incorporate applied and theoretical frameworks for  understanding the field of public management and providing students research opportunities that advance knowledge in the field of public management. A key program objective  is to create a sense of accountability among professionals by incorporating instruction that increases awareness of the ethical issues, which confront public management professionals.

100% Online Course Delivery

The courses in the program are delivered fully online via the Moodle, the learning management system (LMS).  Courses are taught in eight-week sessions for a total of eight sessions.  An academic advisor is available to assist with course selection and registration. To provide students with the flexibility to plan work schedules, family and community events, and financial resources, all courses in the program are scheduled in the rotation included in the Executive Master of Public Administration Plan of Study.

Why Choose Southern's Online EMPA Degree

Southern's online EMPA program recognizes the unique position of working professionals who want to pursue an advanced degree.  We've placed a priority on the time to completion,  student retention and support, and program costs. 

1. Accelerated:  complete in one year
2. GRE Score:  waived
3. Academic Advisor: provides support from enrollment through graduation

Degree Requirements

The degree is awarded to students who satisfactorily complete the required 36 semester credit hours. The course work includes the following:

• 21 semester credit hours of core classes
• 15 semester credit hours of elective classes 

The required courses and course  rotation, can be found in the Plan of Study.  The course descriptions, can be found in the University Catalog. 

Tuition and Program Costs

Eligible students may receive financial aid to help cover the cost of tuition. For more information on paying for your education, visit the Office of Financial Aid and information on the Tuition and Fees on the Southern University Online webpage.

Applying for Admission

Applications for admission to the online graduate programs are processed by the Department and the Graduate School.  To apply, complete the steps below:

1. Apply using the  online application.
2. Pay the $25 graduate application fee.
3. Submit an official transcript showing an earned baccalaureate degree.
4. Submit any additional documents required by the program.

Additional Admission Requirements

In addition to completing the steps to apply for graduate admission, program applicants must meet the following additional criteria:

1. Minimum cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 2.70.
2. Submit a current resume showing three years of relevant work experience.
3. Submit a Statement of Purpose, which includes professional career objectives and reason for choosing the EMPA program. 

Contacts For More Information and Questions