International Master of Public Administration
The International Master of Public Administration (IMPA) at Pennsylvania University is a one-year, full-time, on-campus program designed for aspiring and mid-career professionals who aim to lead effectively in public, nonprofit, and international organizations. Grounded in the fundamentals of management, governance, and public policy, the program offers a global perspective on administrative leadership in a rapidly evolving world. Students gain deep insight into how governments operate across different political and cultural contexts, learning to design, implement, and evaluate policies that address the needs of diverse communities. The curriculum is structured to build critical skills in strategic thinking, financial analysis, and cross-sector collaboration.
With an emphasis on international public service, the program attracts participants from around the world, fostering a dynamic and multicultural classroom experience. Faculty members bring a combination of academic expertise and real-world policy experience to the classroom, offering case-based learning that is both practical and globally relevant. Whether examining governance reforms in developing economies or exploring partnerships between governments and NGOs, students are encouraged to think critically and act ethically. The program culminates in an integrative capstone experience where students work on real policy challenges, equipping them to return to their home countries or move into international roles with fresh vision and capabilities.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: International Master of Public Administration
- Degree Type: Master of Public Administration
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Management Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Public Administration
- Comparative Public Policy
- Public Sector Management
- Economics for Public Decision-Making
- Global Governance and Institutions
Semester 2 – Applied Practice and Leadership
- Performance Management and Accountability
- Public Financial Management
- Policy Analysis and Evaluation
- Capstone Project in International Public Service
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the IMPA program are equipped to assume leadership roles in government ministries, development agencies, international NGOs, public-private partnerships, and global institutions such as the United Nations or World Bank. Many alumni return to their home countries with advanced skills to initiate policy reforms, oversee public programs, or advise senior officials. Others take on international consulting roles, contribute to global think tanks, or pursue doctoral research in public administration. With expertise in comparative governance, public finance, and policy evaluation, they are well-positioned to influence public decision-making at both national and global scales. The program’s focus on practical skills and international context ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also adaptable, ethical, and ready to lead transformative change in the public sector.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing this program means joining a global network of forward-thinking public leaders committed to making a difference. Its immersive and intensive design equips students with policy expertise, leadership capacity, and strategic insight essential for high-impact careers in international governance. The interdisciplinary curriculum blends theory with real-world challenges, preparing students to navigate complex public systems with competence and cultural intelligence. The international cohort, expert faculty, and access to world-class resources create an environment of rigorous academic exchange and professional development. For those who seek to lead with purpose and shape the future of public administration on a global scale, this program offers both the foundation and the forward momentum to do so effectively.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
