Public Administration (MPA)
Cornell University · Ithaca, United States
About this programme
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program is designed for people who aspire to management and leadership roles across the field of public affairs in public, private, and non-profit sectors. It is a two-year, full-time, on-campus professional degree for people ready to tackle the world’s most pressing policy problems in careers that serve the greater good. Students choose from seven concentrations, each designed to equip them with specialized knowledge and skills that support their career growth in their chosen field.
- Level
- Postgraduate
- Field
- Social
- English
- IELTS 7
- Study mode
- Full-time
- Intake
- Fall
Entry requirements
Admission to the MPA Program is designed to foster academic and professional talent, welcoming applicants from various disciplines and professional backgrounds. While no specific undergraduate major is required, applicants with demonstrated experience in policymaking or policy implementation are especially encouraged to apply. Each application is reviewed holistically and in the context of the overall applicant pool for that admission cycle. To be considered for admission, applicants must submit a complete application package as outlined below. Transcripts from all colleges or universities attended Two letters of recommendation Resume Statement of purpose Online video interview TOEFL or IELTS scores, if applicable Visit the Graduate School Admissions site for more information regarding the English language proficiency requirement, including standing exemptions. Office of the University Registrar Address Cornell University 245 Day Hall, Ithaca, NY 14850 Email univreg@cornell.edu Phone Number Phone: 607.255.4232 Fax Number Fax: 607.255.6262 Enrollment <a href
Visa
- Visa required
- F-1 Academic Student
- Application fee
- USD 185 (MRV application fee)
- Processing time
- 4 weeks
Standard figures for this route. Some applicants pay a reduced fee or none at all — confirm your own case on the official visa page.
Scholarships available (6)
- AAUW International FellowshipsFully funded · Deadline November each year
- Fulbright Foreign Student ProgramFully funded · Varies by country, typically February-October
- Hubert Humphrey Fellowship ProgramFully funded · Varies by country, typically May-August
- Smithsonian Institution FellowshipsFully funded · Varies: most November
- Boren FellowshipsPartial funding · Deadline 2027-01-20
- P.E.O. International Peace ScholarshipPartial funding · Deadline 2026-12-15