M.P.A.

DEGREE REQUIREMENTS (2011-2012 CATALOG)

Candidates for the Master of Public Administration degree must satisfy all University graduate degree requirements in this catalog as well as the specific program requirements in this section. A minimum of 36 approved credits is required for the degree, in addition to evidence of practical experience in public or nonprofit administration.

In order to permit students to pursue individual interests, a limited substitution of required courses is possible. Course substitutions must be approved by the student's advisor and the program dean. The student's approved program of study is reflected in the Application for Advancement to Candidacy.

Minimum Credit Hours			36
Major Requirements			24
PADM	S601	Introduction to Public Administration	3
PADM	S604	Research Methods in Administration	3
PADM	S610	Organization Theory and Behavior	3
PADM	S618	Law for Public Managers	3
PADM	S625	Economics and Public Policy	3
PADM	S628	Public Financial Management	3
PADM	S624	Human Resources Administration	3
PADM	S688	Program Evaluation and Performance Measurement	3
PADM	S690	Public Administration Capstone*	3
___	___	Advisor-approved electives	9
*To qualify for graduation from the MPA program, students must complete the Capstone coursebwith a grade of B or higher.
Master of Public Administration Concentrations
MPA students have the option to use their electives to establish a concentration in either Rural Development or Criminal Justice. Coursework for these concentrations is offered by distance technologies through the Rural Development and Justice programs at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
Concentration in Rural Development
The Rural Development concentration has a special focus on needs of indigenous and other rural communities, including management of tribal governments, community organizations, and indigenous-controlled profit and non-profit corporations.
Concentration Requirements			9
RD	F601	Political Economy of the Circumpolar North	3
RD	F651	Management Strategies for Rural Development	3
___	___	Advisor-approved course*	3
*To be selected in consultation with the UAF Rural Development Advisor and MPA Program Director.
Concentration in Criminal Justice
The Criminal Justice concentration emphasizes the application of justice issues and concepts to Alaska, preparing students to meet the challenges of a modern society and the Justice professions.
Concentration Requirements			9
JUST	F605	Administration and Management of Criminal Justice Organizations	3
JUST	F640	Community/Restorative Justice	3
___	___	Advisor-approved course*	3
*To be selected in consultation with the UAF Justice Advisor and MPA Program Director.