Public Administration Degree Checklist

The decision to enter a graduate program is a serious commitment and shouldn’t be taken on lightly. However, with proper consideration and planning, the process of pursuing a public administration degree can be manageable and even enjoyable. These steps will help guide you from the initial decision process through the day of graduation.

1. Decide if pursuing a Master of Public Administration degree is the right choice for you.
Make a list of your major life and career goals and think seriously about whether an MPA would help you reach them. Talk to friends, co-workers and family members who have pursued a graduate degree and ask them for their opinions about the experience. If you are interested in acquiring an MPA to advance in your current field, you may want to talk to your supervisor about whether an MPA would be a useful step towards promotion.

2. Research schools carefully.
What matters to you most in a graduate program—the cost, the prestige, the length of the program or some other factor? Determine your priorities and evaluate programs accordingly. Some programs require a minimum GRE score or undergraduate GPA, so make certain that you meet these public administration degree requirements before applying. Schools will also generally require reference letters and undergraduate transcripts. Make certain that you are aware of all required materials and acquire them well in advance of the admission deadline.

3. Figure out logistical and financial issues sooner, not later.
Grad school requires a careful balancing act when it comes to both money and time. As soon as you’ve been accepted into a program, figure out how you are going to handle the costs in the long run. Remember to take into account not just tuition but also fees, textbooks and other potential expenses. If you are taking out loans to finance your education, start figuring out a repayment plan before bills start coming due. As with financial matters, a little pre-planning can go a long way in figuring out how you are going to find time to complete your degree. Talk to your family and your employer, if you are continuing to work during the program, and emphasize that you will need time available on a weekly basis to complete coursework. If possible, set up a workplace at home away from the hustle and bustle of other household members to use as your own “classroom” space.