We take pride in the successes of our alumni, now numbering over 500. Our graduates are leading dynamic service organizations, from city, county, state and federal agencies, community-based institutions and charities to museums, hospitals and foundations. They work at all levels of government, as well as in nonprofit, teaching, and research positions.

In addition to teaching and discipline-based research, the Division of Public and Nonprofit Administration faculty utilize their skills and knowledge in engaged scholarship projects. Often in collaboration with faculty across the University, Division faculty work with communities, organizations, and individuals to foster responsive, equitable, effective, efficient, and accountable governance processes, public policies, and institution-based programs for the citizens of the Memphis/Mid-South region.

Requirements for Admission

Applicants for the Master of Public Administration program must satisfy all requirements for admission to the Graduate School and receive a favorable endorsement from the public administration faculty. Admissions decisions are based on undergraduate GPA, standardized examination scores (GRE, GMAT, or MAT), and additional information provided by a resume, two letters of recommendation and a personal statement of interest.

The following criteria are used when considering an application:

Undergraduate grade point average

The average undergraduate grade point average of all students admitted in the last three years was 3.1 on a 4.0 scale.

Standardized examination score

You must take the Graduate Record Examination [GRE], Graduate Management Aptitude Test [GMAT], or Miller Analogy Test [MAT]. The standard exam criteria may be waived if the applicant meets appropriate professional public service experience requirements. Follow the link below for more information on the exam waiver.

CLICK HERE for Standard Exam Waiver

Résumé documenting previous education and/or experience

Two letters of recommendation

Preferably, at least letter is from an academic familiar with the applicant's academic background. The applicant's references should address the applicant's academic background or work experience, specifying in detail the applicant's capabilities for graduate study and for future performance as a public service organization administrator.

If you are interested in a graduate assistantship, your letters should also include information on your ability to perform graduate assistant duties (i.e. conduct research and other administrative duties).

Statement of interest

This statement should articulate the applicant's experience, career goals and education objectives related to the pursuit of the MPA degree. The personal statement must be 500-750 words in length.

Deadlines

Deadlines for application are as follows:

Fall Admission            July 1  (International Students - May 1)
Spring Admission        December 1   (International Students - September 15)
Summer Admission     May 1   (International Students - February 1) 

How Do I Apply?

Step 1: Apply to the University of Memphis Graduate School. The Graduate School will forward your application to the M.P.A. program after you've submitted a completed application package, including transcripts and graduate exam scores.

Step 2: Send the following supporting documents directly to the Division of Public and Nonprofit Administration: 

1. Résumé
2. Statement of Interest
3. Two letters of Recommendation

Mail your documents to:

MPA Admissions Committee
124 McCord Hall
Division of Public and Nonprofit Administration
University of Memphis
Memphis, TN 38152
mpa_admissions@memphis.edu
Phone: 901-678-3360
Fax: 901-678-2981

CLICK HERE for more information about enrollment.