Online MPA
Shape the Future of Public Service with an Online MPA at AUM
Online
Four Semesters
30 Credit Hours
$483 per Credit (In-State)
Request Information
Complete this form to receive information about coursework, admissions, tuition, and more.
Make an Impact as a Leader in Public Administration
- Apply By: 1/8/26
- Start Class: 1/12/26
Earn your online Master of Public Administration in as few as four semesters with Auburn University at Montgomery. This accredited program offers personal attention and hands-on experience in a convenient online format.
Our broad-based curriculum emphasizes topics like organizational behavior, nonprofit administration, public sector leadership, and more. The plan of study allows for either full- or part-time scheduling, so you can complete the program at your own pace.
As an AUM MPA student, you will learn to analyze and solve complex policy problems, preparing for management-level roles in the public, nonprofit, and private sectors.
Program Details
- The Master of Public Administration program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA)—The Global Standard in Public Service Education
- No GRE/GMAT test scores are required for program admission
- Ranked among the best public affairs programs by U.S. News & World Report1
More Information About This Program
Click on each tab below to learn additional details regarding the program requirements and features.
Choose a Customizable Online MPA Degree
30 total credits
10 total courses
In this flexible program, you will build the skill set required to begin or advance your public service career. Courses explore essential areas like budgeting, human resource administration, data analysis, program evaluation, and more.
Small class sizes ensure you receive the individualized attention you need to thrive. Students in the online master’s in Public Administration meet regularly with the program director for expert guidance and mentorship.
Explore Your MPA Curriculum
Gain Hands-On Experience
As an MPA student, you can choose to pursue an optional internship for course credit in a setting that aligns with your unique career goals.
Study an Industry-Driven Curriculum
AUM’s online MPA program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), the global standard for public service education.
Apply Today
Application Deadline 8/11/25
Start Date 8/18/25
AUM offers a simple admissions process for students wanting to attain their MPA degree online. You can apply now to begin pursuing your master’s degree on your preferred schedule, and there is no GRE or GMAT requirement.
AUM offers rolling admissions, so it’s always a great time to apply. If you have questions, request information to connect with our admissions team.
| Online Application Form | Apply Now |
|---|---|
| Degree and Minimum GPA | Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with an undergraduate GPA of 2.65 |
| Transcripts | Official transcripts required |
| Transfer Credits | Up to four courses or 12 credit hours may be accepted* |
| Additional Requirements |
AUM offers rolling admissions, so it’s always a great time to apply. If you have questions, request information to connect with our admissions team.
Admissions DetailsInvest in Your Future with a University Recognized for Value
At AUM, you’ll discover an affordable path to your degree. In fact, U.S. News & World Report ranked us among the “Best Value Schools” for 2025.1 Review the table below to learn the cost of earning your online master’s in public administration.
| Cost per Credit Hour | $483 for Alabama residents and $531 for non-residents |
|---|---|
| Total Number of Credit Hours | 30 |
| Total Estimated Tuition | $14,490 – $15,930 |
| Additional Fees | |
| Other Costs to Budget For | You may have costs in addition to tuition, such as textbooks, supplies, and fees. Take these into consideration as you budget for your degree. |
Military Benefits
Auburn University at Montgomery is proud to support the educational goals of military veterans, active-duty service members, reservists, guardsmen, and their families. We participate in the Yellow Ribbon program, and Military Friendly® ranked us among the Top 10 schools for 2023-2024. Moreover, our Veteran and Military Resource Center offers an array of resources for fostering a smooth admissions process and online student experience.
Financial Aid Opportunities
At AUM, we strive to make your online degree program as affordable as possible, with cost-effective tuition for in-state and out-of-state students. We encourage you to complete your FAFSA® form to determine your financial aid eligibility — the school code for Auburn University at Montgomery is 008310.
Tuition Details
Your Path to Leadership Starts with an Online MPA Degree
The interdisciplinary skills you gain in this program will prepare you for lifelong success. AUM MPA alumni go on to lead in settings like local and state governments, nonprofit organizations, and more.
Professionals with public administration expertise are in high demand. Employment of social and community service managers is expected to grow faster than the national average through 2033, with about 17,800 job openings each year during the same period.2
Careers in Public Administration
Government Affairs Director $112,706 per year3
Public Policy Director $100,658 per year4
What You’ll Learn
Whether you are ready to enter the public service field or advance in your current career, the online MPA can help you open doors to new opportunities. Every course provides practical insights you can immediately apply in a range of administrative and nonprofit roles.
Program Outcomes
AUM’s MPA online program outcomes align with NASPAA accreditation requirements. You will graduate ready to:
- Lead and manage in public governance
- Participate in and contribute to the policy process
- Analyze, synthesize, think critically, solve problems, and make decisions
- Articulate a public service perspective
- Communicate and interact productively with a diverse and changing workforce and citizenry
Meet Our Faculty
At AUM, you’ll feel supported by expert faculty members who bring valuable teaching and professional backgrounds to each online class. Our online instructors have completed extensive training in designing and teaching online courses, further elevating your experience as an online student.
Andrew P. Cortell, Professor and Department Chair, MPA
Faculty Spotlight: Andrew P. Cortell, Professor and Department Chair
Dr. Cortell received his Ph.D. from Columbia University. His research interests include international economic relations and international organizations. He is the author of Mediating Globalization: Domestic Institutions and Industrial Policies in the United States and Britain (SUNY Press) and articles in journals including International Studies Quarterly and Review of International Studies.
A Quality Experience for Online Learners
Earn your degree online from Auburn University at Montgomery to experience a quality education with the flexibility to succeed in class and your career. You can complete your coursework using your laptop or mobile device with opportunities to study when and where it’s convenient.
- Academic support: Access online advising and tutoring
- Career services: Prepare to succeed after graduation
- Help desk: Get technical assistance for your program
Sources and Disclaimer
- U.S. News & World Report. “Auburn University – Montgomery.” Retrieved June 2025, from https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/auburn-university-at-montgomery-100830/overall-rankings.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. Occupational Outlook Handbook. “Social and Community Service Managers.” Retrieved June 2025, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/social-and-community-service-managers.htm.
- Payscale.com. “Average Government Affairs Director Salary.” Retrieved June 2025, from https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Government_Affairs_Director/Salary.
- Payscale.com. “Average Director, Public Policy Salary.” Retrieved June 2025, from https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Director%2C_Public_Policy/Salary.
*Transfer credit is not accepted prior to the completion of nine credit hours in the AUM graduate program and cannot be used to bring the AUM grade point average up to a 3.0. Transfer credit is not allowed whenever the grade point average on the transcript of concern is less than 3.0. Transfer credit must come from regionally accredited institutions.