Public Administration

Public Administration at The University of New Mexico offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students for effective leadership and management roles in government, non-profit organizations, and other public sector entities. The program emphasizes core principles of public policy, administrative law, organizational behavior, budgeting, and ethics, equipping students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to address complex public issues. Students will explore topics such as federal, state, and local government operations, public finance, community development, and strategic planning, enabling them to develop innovative solutions that serve diverse communities. The curriculum combines coursework, real-world case studies, and internships to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical decision-making. Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in policy analysis, public program management, city planning, nonprofit leadership, and executive administration. The University of New Mexico's faculty, renowned for their expertise and research contributions, provide mentorship and support to help students achieve their professional goals. The program also offers flexible study options, including online courses, to accommodate the needs of working professionals. With its strong ties to New Mexico's government agencies and community organizations, the program provides valuable networking opportunities and experiential learning. Join the Public Administration program at UNM to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to make a meaningful impact in the public sector and advance your career in public service.

The M.P.A. program requires successful completion of a minimum of 42 credit hours of acceptable graduate-level work consistent with the M.P.A. Study Plan Worksheet developed with the M.P.A. Coordinator. The 42 credit hours must be completed within a seven-year period. At least 33 of the 42 credit hours must be completed at UNM. Students must maintain a 3.0 ("B") grade point average for all M.P.A. course work. Upon completion of the Core curriculum and a minimum of 36 credit hours, a student must successfully complete a culminating experience. Culminating experience options include a thesis option (6 credit hours) or PADM 553 Professional Paper and PADM 552 Designing Applied Research (6 credit hours). Arrangements for completing a culminating experience should be coordinated with the M.P.A. Coordinator.

1. Core curriculum (18 credit hours)
2. Concentration (15 credit hours)
3. Elective (3 credit hours)
4. Designing Applied Research course for those selecting the professional paper option (3 credit hours)
5. Culminating Experience: professional paper (3 credit hours) or thesis (6 credit hours).

Core Curriculum (18 credit hours)

Before enrolling in other Public Administration courses, students are required to complete the core curriculum:

*Students must meet the statistics prerequisite before enrolling.

Concentrations (15 credit hours)

Students must declare a concentration by the completion of 21 credit hours. A Program of Studies (POS) is due to the School of Public Administration office no later than completion of 30 credit hours. For further information about individual concentrations please see the School of Public Administration Web site or contact the Graduate Academic Advisor at spadvise@unm.edu or (505) 277-1092.

Health Policy and Administration Concentration

*Must be approved by the School of Public Administration Director.

Human Resources Management Concentration

* Prerequisite MGMT 306 and MGMT 310
** Prerequisite MGMT 506

Public Budgeting and Financial Management Concentration

Currently under review. See the School of Public Administration Web site, or call (505) 277-1092.

Public Management Concentration

Currently under review. See the School of Public Administration Web site, or call (505) 277-1092.

Culminating Experience: Professional Paper/Thesis

Students may choose between either a professional paper or a thesis to complete their degree. Under the Professional Paper (non-thesis) option, the student completes 39 course credit hours and 3 Professional Paper credit hours. Under the thesis option, student completes 36 course credit hours and 6 thesis credit hours.

The School of Public Administration may change curriculum, degree requirements, admission requirements and policies at any time, without notice, for all programs. Contact SPA for current information and assistance with program planning.

NOTE: A special fee of $15.00 per course is charged to students registering for PADM courses.

• A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with an undergraduate grade point average for the last 60 hours, or overall major grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, or equivalent.
• Letter of Intent (2-3 Pages)
• 3 Letters of Recommendation
• Resume
• One official transcript from EACH academic institution you have attended. You do not need official transcripts for coursework taken at the University of New Mexico.
• $50 Application Fee

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of New Mexico offers a variety of financing options for students enrolled in its Public Administration programs, designed to make higher education accessible and affordable. The primary source of funding for students is federal and state financial aid programs, including Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), and work-study opportunities. Eligibility for these programs depends on a student's financial need, academic progress, and enrollment status. The university also participates in the Federal Direct Loan Program, providing students with low-interest undergraduate and graduate loans that can be used to cover tuition, fees, and other educational expenses.

In addition to federal aid, UNM offers institutional scholarships specifically tailored for students in public administration and related fields. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and financial need. The UNM Foundation manages many of these scholarship funds, and students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible to be considered for multiple financial support opportunities.

Graduate students in Public Administration may also qualify for assistantship positions. These positions often include a stipend and tuition remission in exchange for assisting faculty with research, teaching, or administrative duties. Such assistantships not only reduce the overall cost of education but also provide valuable professional experience.

Apart from scholarships and assistantships, students can explore external funding sources, including private foundations, nonprofit organizations, and government grants aimed at public service education. UNM’s Office of Financial Aid and Scholarship Services provides comprehensive guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for these external funding options.

Furthermore, the university offers payment plans that allow students to spread out tuition payments over the semester, easing the financial burden. UNM also provides financial literacy programs to educate students about budgeting, managing debt, and planning for future financial needs.

International students and out-of-state students should also consider the specific scholarships and grants available to them, including the New Mexico Lottery Scholarship for in-state residents demonstrating academic excellence.

Overall, the University of New Mexico provides a broad spectrum of financing studies to support its Public Administration students, ensuring they can focus on their education and future careers in public service without undue financial stress. Prospective and current students are encouraged to regularly consult the university’s financial aid office and official website for the most current opportunities and application deadlines.

The Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration at the University of New Mexico is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in government, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of administrative processes, policy development, organizational management, and public finance. Students engage with core topics such as public policy analysis, ethics in public service, community development, and strategic planning. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, effective communication, and analytical skills essential for effective governance and public service.

Students have the opportunity to participate in internships with local government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private firms, allowing them to gain practical experience and professional connections. The program also encourages involvement in research projects, seminars, and workshops to deepen understanding of current challenges in public administration. Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue careers as city managers, policy analysts, program coordinators, or administrative officers within various governmental and non-governmental entities.

The faculty comprises experienced professionals and scholars with expertise in public policy, urban planning, environmental management, and organizational leadership. The university provides state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including access to research centers and libraries specializing in public policy and administration. The program emphasizes ethical leadership and civic responsibility, fostering a commitment to public service and community engagement.

Students are encouraged to develop an interdisciplinary perspective, integrating knowledge from political science, economics, sociology, and law. The program values experiential learning, diversity, and innovation, aligning with the broader mission of the University of New Mexico to serve the diverse needs of its community and beyond. Upon completion, graduates will have the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute positively to public sector reform, community development, and policy implementation, making a meaningful difference in society.