Clemson’s Master of Public Administration Program (MPA) has a lot to celebrate! The program was recently ranked 10thof the 50 best online Master in Public Administration degree coursesby TheBestSchools.org.
Clemson’s MPA program ranking was based on its program quality, including the types of courses offered, faculty, rankings, awards and reputation, compared to all other accredited online MPA Programs in the United States.
“We’re proud of this designation, which recognizes our program’s ability to provide the advanced training our students need to assume leadership roles in the public sector,” says Lori Dickes, Program Director of the MPA program and Associate Chair of Clemson’s Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management department. “Over the past several years, we’ve grown this program from a regional offering to a national program that draws students from across the country.”
MPA students can choose to specialize their training in emergency management, homeland defense and security, local and state government, nonprofit management or regional sustainability – ensuring the program meets the needs of a diverse range of public administration and non-profit professionals. Before they earn their credential, students take a comprehensive exam or complete a capstone research project to either demonstrate or expand on the knowledge they’ve gained.
The MPA program is also working to expand its specialized training options through a partnership with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Starting this fall, students can also further develop their professional and academic knowledge in two new certificate programs focused on Emergency Management and Homeland Defense and Security.
Although the program ranking confirms the quality of learning in the program, Dickes feels the real strength of Clemson’s MPA students rest in its people.
“This ranking confirms what we and our students already know – that our program, faculty and students are among the best of the best,” says Dickes. “What makes our program really special, however, are the relationships that come from this online program. Our students form close bonds with our faculty and one another and truly become part of the Clemson family, even though they only actually set foot on campus a few times.”
Learn more about Clemson’s online MPA program from its students and faculty:
