MPA Curriculum
The MPA at Delaware State University is designed to deliver the vital skill sets of public and nonprofit managers, while also providing the contextual background and community engagement skills needed to be effective agents of community change.
Students must complete 12 credits of Foundation courses before taking the Internship (if required) and Core courses.
MPA Foundation Courses
Should be taken before Core Courses
MPA503 (3 Credits): American Governance and Administration
MPA504 (3 Credits): Research Methods for Public Administration
MPA505 (3 Credits): Organizational and Community Leadership
MPA506 (3 Credits): Economics for Public Administration
MPA Core Courses
Taken only after successful completion of Foundation Courses
MPA601 (3 Credits): Administration in Context
MPA602 (3 Credits): Policy Analysis and Program Evaluation
MPA603 (3 Credits): Public Finance
MPA604 (3 Credits): Public Information Technology
MPA605 (3 Credits): Organizational Performance Management
MPA606 (3 Credits): Human Resources for Public Administration
MPA607 (3 Credits): MPA Graduate Project
MPA608 (3 Credits): Internship – If Required
Total: 33 Required, +3 for Internship if Required
Capstone
In this final MPA course, MPA students demonstrate their mastery of program material. The Graduate Project is an applied policy analysis or program evaluation and plan to be completed over the duration of a full semester. It requires students to relate theory to practice in a real-world, experiential study. The policy focus of the project and the relevant level of government, nonprofit or community organization will be selected by the student and instructor together at the conclusion of the student’s Foundation Courses. This will relate to the student’s academic and career interests and wherever possible will engage with community stakeholder needs. The policy plan involves the review of a policy issue or program, its relevant history, an analysis plan, a full analysis complete with recommendations and a plan for implementation. The Graduate Project culminates with the submission of a written document as well as a presentation before a graduate committee.