

The Master of Public Administration at the University of Michigan provides a focused program for students seeking advanced knowledge in public policy, governance, and organizational leadership. The curriculum emphasizes public management, policy analysis, financial administration, and strategic decision making, preparing students to address complex societal challenges and lead effectively in public sector environments. Students engage in applied projects, case studies, and research exercises, developing skills necessary to evaluate policies, manage public resources, and implement programs with measurable impact. This program cultivates both analytical proficiency and leadership competence, equipping graduates to contribute to effective governance and public service.
Learners participate in an interdisciplinary academic environment where theory, practice, and policy research converge. The curriculum offers opportunities for applied policy analysis, organizational assessment, and strategic planning, allowing students to explore public administration challenges and design evidence based solutions. Through mentorship, seminars, and collaborative projects, students refine problem solving, communication, and decision making skills. With a focus on practical application and policy evaluation, the program prepares graduates to implement effective public programs, enhance organizational performance, and contribute to sustainable policy initiatives.
Semester 1 - Foundations in Public Administration
• Public Management and Leadership
• Policy Analysis and Program Evaluation
• Financial Management in the Public Sector
• Research Methods in Public Administration
Semester 2 - Advanced Applications and Capstone
• Strategic Planning and Decision Making
• Ethics and Governance in Public Service
• Applied Public Administration Project
• Seminar in Public Policy and Management
Graduates of this program acquire advanced analytical, leadership, and management skills that prepare them for careers in government agencies, non governmental organizations, public policy analysis, and administrative leadership. They develop expertise in policy evaluation, program management, and strategic planning, enabling them to design and implement effective public initiatives. The program also prepares graduates for roles in urban planning, international development, and nonprofit management. Graduates leave equipped to lead public programs, enhance organizational effectiveness, and contribute to impactful policy development.
This program is ideal for students seeking a curriculum that integrates advanced public administration with applied policy research, offering opportunities for hands on projects, case studies, and mentorship. Learners benefit from faculty guidance, interdisciplinary collaboration, and applied leadership experiences that strengthen analytical, managerial, and decision making skills. The curriculum emphasizes evidence based policy, ethical governance, and professional development, preparing graduates to address complex public sector challenges. With its focus on leadership excellence and practical proficiency, the program provides a rigorous academic environment for students aspiring to careers in public administration, policy implementation, and government leadership.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: 734-764-8129
Email: rackadmis@umich.edu
Address: Graduate Admissions Office, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA