Experienced in complex decision-making as well as analytical and critical thinking, M.P.A. students are able to address the long-term needs of communities, organizations and their stakeholders while maintaining the ethics of public service.
These graduates will understand the value of diversity and inclusion. They are prepared to lead using diverse principles, cultures and practices of organizations and communities from different parts of the world. Do you want to see where a Bloch M.P.A. can take you? Learn how to take the next steps to your degree.
You may apply to and begin the M.P.A. program in any semester. Final application deadline for any semester is two weeks prior to the start of the semester. All required application materials must be submitted by the deadline for an application to be considered for admission that semester.
Admissions are rolling and reviewed as they are submitted. Our priority deadlines are the following:
*International applicants who will require a student visa should apply at least one month before the posted deadlines.
A completed application includes all of the following:
The Master of Public Administration Department uses a holistic review that includes GPA, public service experience, and other relevant information that supports a student’s potential for success and public service motivation. GRE/LSAT/GMAT can be submitted but is not required.
Please upload your resume and goal statement to the online application.
International applicants will also need to submit:
| Undergraduate | Graduate | |
| TOEFL iBT Reporting Code: 6872 |
61 | 79 |
| IELTS |
5.5 5.5 minimum in all bands |
6.0 5.5 minimum in all bands |
| Pearson Test of English (PTE) | 44 | 53 |
| Duolingo English Test (DET) | 90 | 105 |
| GTEC GTEC CBT |
1075 1050 |
1205 1200 |
Letters of recommendation: None are required as part of the application process.
Financial aid/scholarships: In order to be given financial aid/scholarships, you must be admitted to UMKC as a degree-seeking student. The priority deadline for financial aid is February 1, which means you should apply early in order to be considered for the best possible aid package.
Transfer credit: We will accept up to six (6) credit hours applicable to your program completed with distinction at an accredited institution. An official transcript must be supplied. All transfer credit is approved by your academic advisor during your first semester.
Tuition: The UMKC Metro Rate (in-state tuition) is available to graduate students who are residents of the following Kansas counties: Atchison, Douglas, Franklin, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Leavenworth, Miami, Osage, Shawnee and Wyandotte. Part-time domestic students in the traditional M.P.A. program (which means one class (three credit hours) to two classes (six credit hours) in fall and spring semesters, and one class in summer semester), you will pay in-state tuition regardless of your residency.* View the UMKC tuition and fee schedule.
*International students should consult UMKC’s International Student Affairs Office regarding tuition and fees.
Students obtaining a B.A. in Urban Studies in the College of Arts and Sciences at UMKC may pursue early admission to the master’s degree program in public administration and obtain a master’s degree in one additional year. The program allows students to utilize some of the M.P.A. courses to satisfy Urban Studies requirements, thereby reducing the number of courses needed to complete both degrees. Students interested in this option should contact Dr. David Renz in the Bloch School.
Students completing the bachelor of business administration at UMKC may complete their M.P.A. degree in one additional year (three semesters). For more information about this option, contact the Bloch School Student Services Office. Please note that this program is available to UMKC undergraduate students only, and must be started while you are still working on your undergraduate degree.
By phone: 816-235-5254
By email: BlochGrad@umkc.edu
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