If you have a passion for addressing complex social problems, VCU’s Master of Public Administration will help you connect with the nonprofit and public sector policy experts who are leading change in Richmond. And with the flexibility to choose from online or in-person courses, you can take control of your career on your terms.
I interned at the General Assembly — an experience I couldn’t have had at another school in a different part of the state. I love that I got to experience government in action.”
Grow your public service career in the heart of a capital city.
At VCU, you’ll immediately be at the center of Virginia’s government and operations, with the governor’s office, the General Assembly, federal courts, and the Supreme Court of Virginia all just steps away. The Master of Public Administration combines our unbeatable location with theory and practice taught by policymakers and subject matter experts, preparing you to tackle challenges in the public sector, nonprofits, and beyond.
As an M.P.A. student, you’ll learn how to be a creative and principled leader who understands the demands of local, national and global public and nonprofit institutions, and develop the program management and policy analysis skills to make lasting change. Our graduates take their next step with careers at all levels of government, in nonprofits, and with for-profit organizations that cooperate with the public sector.
Are you ready to take the next step in your career?
Most M.P.A. students are working professionals who are either advancing their career in the nonprofit and public sector, or are interested in embarking on a new career. We welcome anyone with a demonstrated interest in public service.
Budget analysts help organizations plan their finances and budgets and analyze accounting reports to ensure accuracy and alignment with procedures and regulations. They may also advise on financial resources needed to implement programs or identify trends that will impact budget needs.
A city manager is responsible for keeping a city running efficiently and ensuring services are consistently available. They execute policies, create and manage the budget, and enforce laws, working in partnership with a city council and city employees. They also represent the city to the media and public, address resident concerns, and oversee special projects commissioned by the councils.
A community health specialist helps people adopt healthy behaviors through the implementation of health programs. They advocate for community health initiatives and address barriers to accessing healthcare resources, and may serve as a liaison between community members and healthcare providers.
A government affairs director manages local, state, and federal relationships that could affect programs and policies, and develop strategies for maximizing an organization’s impact. They keep up with legislative and regulatory developments and may also generate public support for issues and legislation, lobby for policy changes, or testify before government committees.
Working in coordination with physicians and administrators, health program consultants analyze programs and provide healthcare organizations with guidance on necessary improvements and solutions. They aim to improve the organization’s operational and financial effectiveness and achieve positive patient outcomes.
Human resource specialists support an organization’s workforce to best use employees’ talents, including involvement in the recruiting, interviewing and hiring of new staff, and serving as a link between management and employees. They may also coordinate employee benefit programs and handle staffing issues, such as disputes and disciplinary procedures.
Nonprofit directors lead and oversee all facets of an organization, including operations, finances, programs, staff, and volunteers while advancing the nonprofit’s mission and goals. They drive strategic planning, fundraising, and stakeholder relationships and collaborate with the board of directors with the aim of making a positive impact in the community they serve.
Research coordinators play a critical role in the planning, implementation, and management of research studies. They may develop protocols and consent forms, recruit and enroll participants, manage data collection and analysis, communicate with regulators to ensure the study is in compliance, or share results with stakeholders. Research coordinators work in a variety of settings, from academic institutions and government agencies to private research organizations.
A systems analyst reviews and assesses the effectiveness of a company’s IT system and creates plans to manage and enhance those systems. Within government entities, they may implement software systems to improve communications and interactions between the public and the government.
Urban planners identify and advocate for community needs while developing comprehensive government plans and policies for the use of land and facilities in towns, cities, counties, and metropolitan areas. Projects may include parks, affordable housing, and projects that enhance a region’s attractiveness to businesses. Urban planners may also advise on project feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory compliance; hold public meetings to develop or address land-use issues; or mediate community disputes.
Take the next step towards a future of
UNLIMITED potential.
Earn your Master of Public Administration today.