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World Class Online Higher Education

Master of Public Administration

Accelerate Your Leadership Journey with Our 10-Month Online MPA Program

Empower your career in public administration with Gardner-Webb University’s fully online Master of Public Administration program. Designed specifically for busy professionals, this accelerated program offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to balance education, work, and life seamlessly. Benefit from the convenience of online learning without compromising on quality, as our curriculum is designed to provide a transformative educational experience that fits into your schedule. With dedicated support from faculty and a vibrant network of peers, you will be equipped to face the challenges of public administration with confidence. Take the next step toward leadership and make a lasting impact in your community—apply today.

Program Overview: Achieve your career goals with a fully accredited, 10-month MPA program from Gardner-Webb University. Learn from experienced faculty in small, interactive classes that ensure personalized attention. With six start dates each year and 8-week courses, you can tailor your education to fit your schedule.

  • Accreditation: SACSCOC-accredited.

  • Format: 100% online.

  • Completion Time: As little as 10 months.

  • Class Size: Maximum of 20 students.

Why Choose Gardner-Webb? At Gardner-Webb University, we are dedicated to your personal and professional growth. Our Christ-centered approach equips students with the ethical and leadership skills needed to excel in public administration roles.

  • Online education leader since 1999.

  • Supportive services: Writing Center, Tutoring, and Library access.

  • Military-friendly benefits, including 20% tuition discounts for active duty, first responders, and veterans.

What You’ll Learn: In this program, you’ll gain critical competencies essential for success in public administration:

  • Develop leadership and organizational behavior skills.

  • Master ethical decision-making guided by Christian principles.

  • Hone advanced research techniques and utilize cutting-edge technology.

  • Cultivate a global perspective in administrative functions.

Benefits of Earning an Online Criminal Justice Degree

  • Recognized Excellence: We are acknowledged by industry leaders for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility. Our dedication to excellence has also earned us a place among the top Christian Education Schools in North Carolina.

  • Distinguish Yourself: Obtaining your online criminal justice degree from a recognized Christian nonprofit university can help distinguish you in your industry.

  • Comprehensive Skill Development: The courses offered by the Department of Public Service will prepare you with:

    • Increased critical-thinking skills

    • Ethical decision-making abilities

    • Multicultural communication skills

    • A solid foundation of technical and professional skills to address the needs of an evolving, complex society

  • Accelerated Learning: With Gardner-Webb’s 8-week format and six start dates each year, you can complete your online criminal justice degree faster than through traditional campus programs.

Exclusive Benefits for First Responders & Military Personnel

We value those who serve our communities. As an active-duty law enforcement officer, first responder, or military personnel, you can take advantage of:

  • 20% Tuition Discount

  • Potential Credit for Prior Experience

Connect With Your Personal Advisor

At Gardner-Webb University Online, our programs are never one size fits all. Communicate with your personal program advisor to discover just how affordable, flexible, and easy it can be to attain your degree. Ignite Your Future; let’s get started today.

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Program hours
1
Years (avg.)
1
Class Type

Online

Transfer Friendly
Transfer up to 90 hours
Accreditation

Gardner-Webb University is accredited by SACSCOC

Total Credit Hours

120 hours required

Career Options

What You'll Do After Graduation

Your degree in Criminal Justice can open doors to rewarding careers such as:

  • Criminal Intelligence Analyst
    Average Annual Salary: $77,345
  • Criminal Investigator
    Average Annual Salary: $66,976
  • Police Officer
    Average Annual Salary: $60,505
  • Criminologist
    Average Annual Salary: $57,192
  • Paralegal
    Average Annual Salary: $52,947
  • Crime Scene Investigator
    Average Annual Salary: $52,947
  • Juvenile Court Counselor
    Average Annual Salary: $45,422
  • Probation Officer
    Average Annual Salary: $44,099

Meet Our Faculty

Our Criminal Justice faculty are experts in their fields, combining academic knowledge with real-world experience. They are dedicated to guiding you through every step of your educational journey, ensuring you have the tools you need to thrive in your career.

Homeland Security Administration

Chief Tim Ledford

Instructor of Criminal Justice and Homeland Security
[email protected]

See More

Public Service

Dr. Stephen P. Gambill, J.D.

Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Administration
[email protected]
(704) 406-2639

See More

Why Choose GWU?

We were founded in 1905, and have long had a commitment to reaching our students anywhere they are. And while our beautiful campus is in the foothills of western North Carolina, our students are all around the globe.

Flexibility - 100% Online

Offering Online Education Since 1999 before some of our competitors even existed. 

Maximize Your Time

  • Transfer up to 90 hours
  • Potential credit for job experience
  • Accelerated Masters Program

Access to Academic Support

  • Writing Center
  • Library
  • Tutoring

Community of Faith

  • Be part of a supportive community that emphasizes ethical decision-making, character development, and lifelong learning, rooted in Christian values.

I want to bring [peace] to people… I want to be the type of person to… make it a better situation than what it is.

Micahla Funderburk, ’24 – Police Officer, Gastonia Police Department

Micahla Funderburk’s path to serving as a police officer with the Gastonia Police Department was shaped by resilience, community support, and a powerful commitment to make a difference. As a standout athlete on Gardner-Webb’s women’s basketball team, Funderburk faced a life-altering challenge with an ACL tear that nearly ended her athletic career. Determined to overcome, she not only returned to the court but thrived with the encouragement of her coaches and teammates, who provided her with a strong foundation of perseverance and teamwork. This journey of personal growth and resilience mirrored her passion for public service, leading her toward a career in law enforcement. Her experience at Gardner-Webb taught her the importance of empathy, integrity, and serving others—a foundation she brings to her role daily as she strives to create peace and provide support in difficult situations.

I want to bring [peace] to people… I want to be the type of person to… make it a better situation than what it is.

Micahla Funderburk, ’24 – Police Officer, Gastonia Police Department

Micahla Funderburk’s path to serving as a police officer with the Gastonia Police Department was shaped by resilience, community support, and a powerful commitment to make a difference. As a standout athlete on Gardner-Webb’s women’s basketball team, Funderburk faced a life-altering challenge with an ACL tear that nearly ended her athletic career. Determined to overcome, she not only returned to the court but thrived with the encouragement of her coaches and teammates, who provided her with a strong foundation of perseverance and teamwork. This journey of personal growth and resilience mirrored her passion for public service, leading her toward a career in law enforcement. Her experience at Gardner-Webb taught her the importance of empathy, integrity, and serving others—a foundation she brings to her role daily as she strives to create peace and provide support in difficult situations.

Ready to Make an Impact?

Start your journey towards a fulfilling career in criminal justice today. Apply Now or Request More Information to learn how Gardner-Webb University can help you achieve your goals.

Gardner-Webb University 110 South Main Street, PO Box 997, Boiling Springs, NC 28017
Call Us: 704-406-4000

Gardner-Webb University: Where Your Future in Criminal Justice Begins.
Empower yourself to serve and protect with integrity.