Alumni Preston Blakely
M.P.A.

Public Affairs

Virtual Open House - Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at 5pm

Join us at one of our upcoming virtual Graduate School Open House events on Zoom! You'll have the opportunity to learn more about Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµ, understand the Graduate School application process, and meet key program representatives.

The Master of Public Affairs program is designed for students looking to work in the public sector and for current professionals looking to advance their careers. You will learn the skills necessary to work as a town manager, department head, non-profit executive and other leadership roles in areas ranging from human resources to law enforcement. Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµâ€™s M.P.A. program is accredited by the NASPAA, the recognized global accreditor of master's degree programs in the fields of Public Affairs, Policy and Administration.


Master of Public Affairs graduate April Williams working someone at a table over blueprints

More about Master of Public Affairs

What You'll Learn

The MPA program is a 39-semester hour program with the option for an internship if a student does not have previous professional experience. The curriculum is taught by an experienced faculty and public sector professionals. The course work hones a student’s research and analytical skills while covering subjects like Legal Issues in Public Affairs; Public Financial Management; and Public Policy Analysis. The internship option places students in a variety of local, federal and non-profit organization positions and is a great chance for practical experience while networking with existing professionals.

Where You'll Go

WCU’s MPA alumni are working in leadership positions in regional and national governments and agencies. You will have the chance to work in a variety of government departments, work as a policy analyst or researcher, work with non-profit organizations, get into education or continue your studies in a doctoral program.

Next Steps

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Start Your Journey
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Take a Tour Today
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Get in Touch

Degree Options

School

College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Political Science & Public Affairs

Location

Asheville (Biltmore Park Instructional Site)

Length

 Full-Time or Part-Time

Time to Complete: 

 Typically 2–3 years depending on enrollment plan

Credits:

39 graduate credit hours required

App Deadline:

Rolling admissions with key deadlines: Dec. 1, May 1, and Aug. 1

What’s Happening

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Interested in This Program?

Download our digital brochure about it
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Get In Touch

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Heather Rimes

Distinguished Professor, Director
College of Arts and Sciences