Best MBA in Public Administration
An MBA in Public Administration is designed for professionals looking to lead government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and public policy initiatives. This specialization focuses on public sector management, policy analysis, governmental budgeting, and leadership in civic organizations, equipping graduates with the expertise to manage public programs, policy implementation, and administrative operations.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in public administration roles is expected to grow as governments and nonprofit organizations expand their services. Additionally, the median salary for public administrators is $110,000, with top government officials and city managers earning significantly higher ( BLS). A report by The National Academy of Public Administration highlights that public administration professionals play a critical role in ensuring efficient governance and policy execution ( National Academy of Public Administration).
An MBA in Public Administration specialization is ideal for professionals seeking to lead public service organizations, manage policy-driven programs, and drive impactful change in the government and nonprofit sectors.
Table of Contents
What is an Online MBA in Public Administration?
An Online MBA in Public Administration provides a flexible pathway for professionals looking to develop expertise in government leadership, public budgeting, and policy implementation while continuing their careers. These programs focus on public governance, regulatory compliance, and organizational management, helping students prepare for leadership roles in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and policy think tanks.
Students gain expertise in fiscal management, intergovernmental relations, and public sector ethics, ensuring they are equipped to navigate complex government structures and drive policy effectiveness. Many online programs include real-world public administration case studies, policy simulations, and strategic management projects, providing an immersive learning experience.
What Are the Admissions Requirements for an MBA in Public Administration?
Admissions requirements for an MBA in Public Administration vary by program, but typically include:
- Bachelor’s Degree – From an accredited institution, often in business, public administration, political science, or a related field.
- Work Experience – 2-5 years of professional experience in government, public service, or nonprofit management is preferred.
- GMAT/GRE Scores – Some programs require standardized test scores, while others offer waivers.
- Personal Statement – Discussing career goals and why the applicant is pursuing an MBA in Public Administration.
- Letters of Recommendation – Typically from employers, government officials, or academic mentors.
- Resume – Highlighting experience in public sector administration, policy analysis, or government operations.
Is an MBA in Public Administration the Right Specialization for You?
An MBA in Public Administration specialization is best suited for professionals who are policy-driven, mission-oriented, and interested in government leadership. If you are passionate about public service, regulatory management, and policy development, this specialization will provide the necessary skills for career advancement.
Compared to other MBA specializations, such as Nonprofit Management or Policy Analysis, an MBA in Public Administration focuses on public governance, strategic planning in the public sector, and intergovernmental management. If you want to lead government programs, develop policies, or manage public resources, this program may be the best fit for you.
2026 Best MBA in Public Administration Programs
Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, KY - Public 4-Year - eku.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Public Administration - Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern Kentucky University's online MBA with a Public Administration concentration is designed for professionals seeking to advance in government and public sector roles. This AACSB-accredited program can be completed in one year through 8-week intensive courses, blending core business education with specialized public administration skills. The curriculum emphasizes organizational leadership, public policy, human resources, and finance administration. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.75 GPA and demonstrate strong communication and computer skills. No entrance exam is required for admission, making it accessible for working adults focused on career growth.
- One-year MBA program
- 9-credit Public Administration concentration
- Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA
- 6 core business courses
- Capstone course required
- 8-week intensive courses
- Focuses on organizational leadership
- Computer skills expected
- Three concentration courses
- AACSB accredited program
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - Private 4-year - liberty.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Public Administration
Online Learning - Visit Website
Liberty University's online MBA in Public Administration delivers a comprehensive 45-credit hour curriculum focused on leadership, strategic management, finance, and ethical decision-making from a faith-based perspective. This flexible program features 8-week courses with multiple annual start dates, allowing professionals to balance studies with career commitments. Notably, no standardized entrance exam is required for admission, though a 3.0 GPA is expected. Accredited by SACSCOC and ACBSP, it emphasizes organizational leadership, policy implementation, and economic development skills applicable across government, nonprofit, and business sectors, with transfer credits accepted for up to 50% of requirements.
- 100% online, 8-week courses
- 45 total credit hours
- Transfer up to 50% credits
- No standardized testing required
- $565/credit graduate tuition
- Accredited by SACSCOC and ACBSP
- Multiple start dates annually
- Biblical perspective integration
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Flexible learning schedule
Ohio State University
Columbus, OH - Public 4-Year - osu.edu
Master's - Master of Public Administration / MBA Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Ohio State University's hybrid dual Master of Public Administration and MBA program integrates public sector management with business leadership over three years, featuring 90 credit hours with overlapping coursework for efficiency. It emphasizes strategic management for nonprofit and governmental roles, supported by small classes and rolling admissions. The program requires GRE or GMAT entrance exams and has a near-perfect placement rate, preparing graduates for complex leadership positions.
- Dual MPA/MBA degree
- 90 total credit hours
- Three-year completion timeline
- Coursework credit overlap
- Rolling admissions process
- GRE or GMAT required
- Three recommendation letters
- Near 100% placement rate
- Fall semester start
- Small class sizes
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - Private 4-year - snhu.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Public Administration
Concentration: Public Administration - Online Learning - Visit Website
Southern New Hampshire University's online MBA in Public Administration prepares professionals for leadership roles in public and nonprofit sectors through a curriculum emphasizing strategic planning, policy development, and data-driven decision-making. This 10-course program can be completed in as little as 12 months with flexible 10-week terms, featuring no GRE/GMAT requirement and affordable tuition at $637 per credit. ACBSP accreditation ensures quality, while benefits like no application fee, military discounts, and 24/7 support make it accessible for working adults advancing their careers.
- Online MBA with Public Administration concentration
- 10 total courses
- 10-week term length
- $637 per credit
- Complete in 12 months
- No application fee
- Transfer up to 6 credits
- Accredited by ACBSP
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Military tuition discount available
New York University
New York, NY - Private 4-year - nyu.edu
Master's - MBA/MPA
Campus Based - Visit Website
New York University's MBA/MPA dual degree integrates Stern School of Business and Wagner School of Public Service curricula over three years, requiring 84 credits. Students alternate between schools, gaining cross-sector leadership skills through core courses, electives, and a capstone project. The program emphasizes strategic thinking and analytical abilities, with internship opportunities enhancing practical experience. It prepares graduates for roles in government, nonprofits, and private sectors, focusing on interdisciplinary problem-solving. As a master's level program, it may require entrance exams like the GMAT or GRE, but applicants should verify current requirements as policies can change.
- Three-year dual degree program
- 84 total credits required
- MBA and MPA combined degrees
- Alternates between Stern/Wagner schools
- Includes core and elective courses
- Capstone courses in final year
- Internship opportunity in summer
- Multiple specialization options
- Strategic leadership focus
University of Baltimore
Baltimore, MD - Public 4-Year - ubalt.edu
Master's - MBA
Concentration: Public Sector Management - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Baltimore's hybrid MBA with a Public Sector Management concentration develops leadership skills specifically for government and nonprofit sectors. Students gain expertise in public policy implementation, program evaluation, and performance measurement through specialized courses. This 36-credit program offers flexibility in course selection while preparing graduates for management roles in federal agencies, local government, and NGOs. As a master's level program, it requires entrance exams such as the GMAT or GRE for admission consideration.
- MBA with Public Sector Focus
- Partnership with Public Affairs College
- 9 Credits Specialization Courses
- Four Specialized Public Management Courses
- Prepares for Government/Nonprofit Careers
- Courses Include Policy Implementation
- Performance Measurement Training
- Total 36 Credit MBA Program
- Flexibility in Course Selection
Belhaven University
Jackson, MS - Private 4-year - belhaven.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Public Administration - Online Learning - Visit Website
Belhaven University's online MBA with a Public Administration concentration prepares professionals for leadership roles in both public and private sectors by integrating core business principles with specialized public service knowledge. The program emphasizes advanced financial management, economics, and policy expertise, equipping graduates with skills in government budgeting, ethics, and strategic leadership. As a master's level program, it may require an entrance exam such as the GMAT or GRE, though specific requirements should be verified with the university. This flexible, faith-based program focuses on servant leadership and adaptability across diverse organizational environments.
- Online MBA program available
- Public administration concentration
- Flexible career opportunities
- Focus on business leadership
- Skills in finance, economics
- Government budgeting insights
- Public policy understanding
- Servant leadership emphasis
- Private/public sector adaptability
Concordia University Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI - Private 4-year - cuaa.edu
Master's - MBA in Nonprofit Management and Public Administration
Online Learning - Visit Website
Concordia University Ann Arbor's online MBA in Nonprofit Management and Public Administration prepares leaders for the nonprofit and public sectors with skills in governance, fundraising, and strategic planning. This 36-credit program offers flexible online learning at $725 per credit, ideal for working professionals. No GRE/GMAT is required, and it features a minimum 2.75 GPA, scholarships, and a faith-based approach from the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod. Students benefit from expert instruction and graduate certificate options, making it accessible and practical for career advancement.
- 36 total credit hours
- $725 per credit cost
- Online and campus options
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Minimum 2.75 GPA
- Scholarships available
- Faith-based educational approach
- Real-world expert instruction
- Graduate certificate option
- Flexible learning environments
Albany State University
Albany, GA - Public 4-Year - asurams.edu
Master's - Master of Business Administration
Concentration: Public Administration - Online Learning - Visit Website
Albany State University's online MBA in Public Administration provides a 30-semester hour curriculum focused on public sector management. This HBCU program emphasizes public budgeting, strategic management, and quantitative decision-making through flexible course options tailored for working professionals. The program does not require the GMAT for admission, with regular admission requiring a 2.75 GPA and provisional admission available. Graduates are prepared for complex administrative roles in government and nonprofit organizations.
- 30 total semester hours
- Public budgeting focus
- Flexible course schedule
- Multiple public administration electives
- Strategic management capstone
- No specific GMAT required
- Regular admission: 2.75 GPA
- Provisional admission available
Concordia University-Wisconsin
Mequon, WI - Private 4-year - cuw.edu
Master's - MBA in Nonprofit Management and Public Administration
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Concordia University-Wisconsin's MBA in Nonprofit Management and Public Administration prepares professionals for leadership roles in government and nonprofit sectors. This two-year hybrid program offers practical training in governance, fundraising, and program evaluation, with no GRE/GMAT required. At $725 per credit, it provides affordable education through flexible online and campus options tailored for working adults. The curriculum emphasizes real-world applications and includes a faith-based approach, requiring a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA for admission.
- 36 total credit hours
- Cost per credit $725
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Online and campus options
- Two-year completion timeline
- Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA
- Working professionals focused
- Graduate certificate available
- Faith-based educational approach
- Real-world expert instruction
MBA in Public Administration Curriculum: What Classes Will I Take?
Most MBA in Public Administration programs take 1-2 years to complete, depending on whether students enroll full-time, part-time, or in an accelerated format.
Core Courses in an MBA in Public Administration
The curriculum for a Public Administration MBA specialization blends business management with public sector expertise through courses such as:
- Public Administration & Governance
- Government Budgeting & Financial Management
- Policy Analysis & Program Evaluation
- Leadership in Public Sector Organizations
- Ethics in Public Administration
- Public-Private Partnerships & Collaboration
- Crisis & Emergency Management
- Strategic Planning for Government & Nonprofit Organizations
Many programs also incorporate public administration capstone projects, including real-world case studies in policy-making, fiscal budgeting, and government operations. Some students complete internships with government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or public policy institutions to gain hands-on experience before graduation.
What Career Options Do I Have with an MBA in Public Administration?
A Public Administration MBA specialization prepares graduates for leadership roles in government, public policy, and nonprofit administration. Common job titles include:
- City Manager – Oversees municipal governance, budgeting, and community planning.
- Public Policy Analyst – Develops and evaluates policies to improve government efficiency.
- Government Program Manager – Leads public sector programs and initiatives.
- Director of Public Affairs – Manages government relations, public communication, and stakeholder engagement.
- Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) – Leads strategic operations and policy implementation in government agencies.
Salary Expectations
Salaries for MBA in Public Administration graduates vary based on industry, experience, and expertise. According to BLS and the National Academy of Public Administration, public administration professionals with an MBA typically earn:
- City Manager – $110,000 – $190,000
- Public Policy Analyst – $95,000 – $160,000
- Government Program Manager – $100,000 – $170,000
- Director of Public Affairs – $105,000 – $180,000
- Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) – $120,000 – $200,000
Take the Next Step Toward a Leadership Role in Public Administration
An MBA in Public Administration provides the expertise needed to lead government agencies, develop policy-driven solutions, and manage large-scale public sector initiatives. Whether you want to run city operations, analyze government policies, or direct public affairs strategies, this degree will give you the knowledge, skills, and network to achieve your career goals.
Explore top-ranked MBA in Public Administration programs today and start advancing your career.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Public Administration & Government Careers. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/
- National Academy of Public Administration. (2023). The Future of Public Administration & Policy Development. Retrieved from https://www.napawash.org/