Public Affairs

The Master of Public Affairs (MPA) at the University of Colorado Denver is a comprehensive graduate program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the public sector, non-profit organizations, and private enterprises involved in public policy and management. The program emphasizes the development of critical skills such as policy analysis, strategic planning, organizational management, and public finance, equipping graduates to effectively address complex societal issues. Students gain a solid foundation in ethical decision-making, data-driven policy formulation, and community engagement, ensuring they are well-prepared to serve diverse populations and collaborate across sectors. The curriculum offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application through case studies, internships, and capstone projects, fostering real-world experience. The program is designed to accommodate working professionals with flexible online and evening courses, allowing students to advance their careers while studying. Faculty members are experienced practitioners and scholars dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a collaborative learning environment. Graduates of the MPA program are equipped to pursue careers in local, state, and federal government agencies, non-governmental organizations, advocacy groups, and private sector entities that work toward public good. With a focus on social equity, sustainable development, and innovative governance, the University of Colorado Denver’s MPA prepares students to become effective leaders and policy makers capable of creating meaningful change in communities and beyond.

The doctoral program is designed to address the strong demand for the services of people who are skilled in the theory, concepts, and research areas of public administration, public policy, public management, and criminal justice.  It is a research-oriented degree.  The program develops the conceptual, research, and analytic skills and knowledge of its students so that they will be able to advance the study and practice of public affairs in their subsequent careers.  Graduates are able to generate and execute state of the art research on complex public and non-profit systems.  The program requires an intensive commitment of time and effort and takes an average of 6 years to complete.  Students must complete the required core classes, electives, and the dissertation.

Upon completion of the program, you will have demonstrated:

1. The ability to effectively communicate your knowledge and skills orally and in writing;

2. Your ability to formulate and implement a high-quality research design and effectively analyze and communicate the results of your research to your peers and to faculty;

3. Extensive background knowledge and analytical skills in areas relevant to public administration, public management, and public policy, specifically:

• The historical and comparative foundations of public administration
   
• Contemporary literature, concepts, and theories of public management
   
• Contemporary literature, concepts, and theories of public policy
   
• Emerging topics of public administration, policy, and management
   
• Advanced social science research methods and tools used in public affairs research

International PhD Degree Applicants for admission to the School of Public Affairs must submit:

• Application for Grad​uate Admissions​

• ​(3) Recommendation Forms

• Declaration of Program Form    

• Applicat​ion Fee​

• GRE Scores 

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or its equivalent

• Two Official​ Transcripts

• Current Resume

• Essay - 500-1000 word statement of educational and career goals, focusing on research interests(3) Recommendation Forms

Each year the School of Public Affairs will choose certain students to receive a full tuition waiver and a research assistantship stipend of approximately $15,000 for the academic year. Funding may also be available during the summer for up to $5000 for research assistants. This award may be renewed for three years based on funding availability, but out of state funding is only available for one year (resident tuition is available to graduate students after one year if they meet University criteria).  The awards are based on merit and awarded by the PhD committee as part of the application process.  No additional application materials are needed to be considered for this award.

The Public Affairs program at the University of Colorado Denver is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in various public sector organizations, including government agencies, non-profits, and community organizations. The program emphasizes the development of critical skills such as policy analysis, strategic planning, public communication, management, and ethical decision-making. Students are encouraged to engage in experiential learning through internships, research projects, and community engagement initiatives, which provide practical experience and foster professional networks. The curriculum often integrates coursework in areas like public administration, policy implementation, budgeting, and organizational behavior, aligning academic theory with real-world applications. The program aims to cultivate a deep understanding of public issues, encourage innovative solutions, and promote a commitment to civic responsibility. Faculty members are experienced practitioners and scholars dedicated to mentoring students and advancing knowledge in public affairs. Graduates typically pursue careers in government administration, policy analysis, advocacy, non-profit management, or further academic study. The program is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, preparing students to serve diverse communities effectively. Throughout the year, students have access to seminars, workshops, and conferences that enhance their professional development and keep them informed about current trends and challenges in public affairs. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethical leadership and social equity, aiming to produce professionals who are capable of making impactful decisions that benefit society as a whole.