Gardner-Webb Launches 10-Month Master of Public Administration

Taught by Public Service Experts, Program Will Focus on Real-World Applications

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—In the 2023 Spring Semester, Gardner-Webb University will launch a new graduate degree for public servants. The fully-accredited 10-month Master of Public Administration (MPA) will prepare students for successful administrative careers in local, state, federal, and non-profit agencies.

“We’re excited to begin offering this fully-accredited program designed to be convenient, impactful, and affordable to prepare our graduates for leadership roles as they advance their careers,” noted Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Karen Aubrey.

Offered 100 percent online and with tuition under $20,000, the degree is geared toward working professionals. Taught by faculty members who are public service experts with a mentoring approach to learning, students can expect a program focused on real-world ethical applications of content. Courses instruct students in various aspects of the job, including law and management, budgeting and fiscal administration, grant research and writing and other topics essential for success in the field.

Additionally through the First Responder’s Grant, eligible students receive a discount on tuition, which is renewable through the completion of their program.

Dr. Bobbie Cox, chair of the Department of Public Service and a professor of criminal justice and public administration, is director of the new master’s program. “While developing knowledge in social, political and legal areas, graduates will be well prepared to seek and excel in 21st century public administration, domestic and global issues,” Cox emphasized. “Ready to serve in specialized careers in public management or administration of justice in local, state, and federal government systems and nonprofit organizations.”

The MPA emphasizes instruction and applications in public administration, allowing students to acquire the ability to perform administrative functions, organizational tasks, leadership roles, and additional skills. The program prepares students to gain employment or advance their careers, such as town, city or county manager; local, state or federal government management; and administrative positions in nonprofit organizations.

Courses are delivered in eight-week terms and include a capstone course. Class size is limited to 20 students. Topics address public administration issues facing society and students learn how to:

• Exhibit a professional competency that includes major social, political and historical context of cultures with a focus on race, diversity and poverty.
• Demonstrate organizational behavior skills to adapt to advanced professional career positions in public administration agencies fostering competent, responsible, citizenship.
• Employ advanced research skills to identify, analyze and present solutions to public administration problems that require the use of technology and advanced computerized programs to arrive at solutions.
• Explain the importance of personal responsibility and accountability for professional, ethical decision making and incorporate professional, Christian-centered values within the ethical and legal guidelines of public administration.
• Understand and respond to the challenges of an ever-changing public administrative environment with global competence and high Christian ethical standards.

For more information about this program, contact Interim Assistant Vice President for Digital Learning Alex Carroll at [email protected] or (704) 406-2660.

*Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Note to our readers: This article reflects the University’s tuition and fee schedule at the time of publication. Tuition and financial aid policies change annually. For the most up-to-date and accurate information on current tuition rates and financial aid resources, please visit the University’s official Admissions page.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.