Program details
The University of Manitoba and University of Winnipeg jointly offer a two-year program of study leading to a master's degree in public administration.
Master of Public Administration
Expected duration: 2 years
Tuition and fees: Two years tuition, then continuing fees in subsequent years (refer to Graduate tuition and fees)
In addition to the minimum course requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, found in the Graduate Studies Regulations Section, students must complete:
- 36 credit hours of study, including:
- 24 credit hours of required courses at the 7000-level
- 12 credit hours of optional courses at the 7000-level
- A mandatory co-op placement
There is no thesis or comprehensive examination. However, students are required to complete a major paper as part of the capstone seminar.
Co-op placement
Students in the Public Administration (MPA) program are required to complete two co-op placements. These work terms enhance in-class learning with on-the-job experience, giving students the opportunity to gain experience with full-time, paid positions in the public or non-profit sector.
Core course offerings
- POLS 7130: Theories and Issues in Public Administration (3 credit hours)
- POLS 7132: Public Policy Process and Issues (3 credit hours)
- POLS 7134: Qualitative Methods and Communications in the Public Sector (3 credit hours)
- POLS 7136: Governance and Administration (3 credit hours)
- POLS 7138: Quantitative Methods for Policy Analysis (3 credit hours)
- POLS 7140: Principles of Public Finance for Policy Analysis (3 credit hours)
- POLS 7980: Professional Development Workshops (3 credit hours)
- POLS 7990: Capstone Seminar (3 credit hours)
For full course descriptions, please visit the Academic Calendar.
Admission requirements
The following are the minimum requirements for entry into the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program.
In addition to the admission requirements described here, all applicants must meet the minimum admission and English language proficiency requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies.
- To be considered for admission into the Master of Public Administration program, you must have a four-year undergraduate degree.
- To be competitive during the admission selection process, applicants should have a minimum Grade Point Average of 3.5 (B+).
How to apply
The MPA program accepts applications for Fall entry only. Applications must be completed online and include several parts:
- Application fee (non-refundable)
- Publication/writing sample
- Statement of intent
- Two letters of recommendation (must be requested from within the application)
- Proof of English language proficiency, if required
Application deadlines
Applications are reviewed on a committee basis. The Admissions committee for Public Administration reviews applications in April.
Applications open up to 18 months prior to start term.
Canadian, US and international applicants
| Term | Annual application deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall (September) | December 15 |
Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated.
Learn more
Contact us
Admission and application inquiries
Faculty of Graduate Studies
Room 500 UMSU University Centre
65 Chancellors Circle
University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus)
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada
graduate.admissions@umanitoba.ca
Phone: 204-474-9377
Monday to Friday
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Program inquiries
Department of Political Studies, Faculty of Arts
532 Fletcher Argue Building
15 Chancellor's Circle
University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus)
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2
political.studies@umanitoba.ca
Phone: 204-474-9733
Fax: 204-474-7585