Master of Public Administration

The M.P.A. program at the College of Charleston is highest-ranked program in South Carolina and among the top 30 percent worldwide.

The College of Charleston's Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) provides you with the skills and knowledge you need to excel in public service, public management, and public policy careers.

Let us help prepare you for leadership roles in government agencies, non-profits, environmental policy, arts organizations and make a difference on a global scale.

Why should you apply to this program?

Our program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) and is recognized by U.S. News and World Report (2024) as among the Best Public Affairs Programs.

Our faculty and staff are nationally-recognized scholars and practitioners who combine deep knowledge of the theories and critical concepts of public, nonprofit, and environmental management with practical, hands-on experience.

To learn more or schedule a conversation with the Program Director, contact the M.P.A. office.

Email Program Director Matt Nowlin

Select Your M.P.A. Experience

At the College of Charleston, you can tailor your degree to maximize your M.P.A. experience. In addition to the Public Administration program, we offer a concurrent program in Environmental and Sustainability Studies, and two graduate certificate options.

Master of Public Administration
We prepare public service leaders.
Accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) and recognized by U.S. News and World Report (2024) as among the nation's Best Public Affairs Programs, the Master of Public Administration program will help prepare you for your public service career:
- Government agencies
- City administration
- Urban planning
- Non-profits
- Environmental policy
- Arts organizations
Learn More About the MPA Program
Concurrent Public Administration (MPA) & Environmental & Sustainability Studies

The College Charleston is one of a few programs in the country to offer a concurrent master’s degree program in Public Administration and Environmental and Sustainability Studies (EVSS).
The Concurrent M.P.A./EVSS program provides the opportunity to attain two master’s degrees in three years rather than four, without compromising any of the academic content.
Learn More on the MPA/EVSS Program
Graduate Certificate in Urban and Regional Planning

The Graduate Certificate Program in Urban and Regional Planning offers a 13-credit overview of the discipline and practice of American planning, as well as the major planning issues facing the Lowcountry.
Learn About the Certificate Program
Graduate Certificate in Arts and Cultural Management

The College of Charleston's Graduate Certificate in Arts and Cultural Management is a one-year, 15-credit program designed to equip students with hands-on learning through immersive experiences with artists, cultural institutions, and the Charleston community.
More on Arts & Culture Certificate

The M.P.A. program has equipped me with the knowledge and expertise needed to create the pathway to multiple positions that are available in government.
Danny Kay Johnson Jr. ‘21- Sponsorship Coordinator, Mount Pleasant Recreation Department

Nationally Ranked. Globally Recognized.

Our M.P.A. program is recognized as one of the top programs worldwide. In addition, the program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) and ranked by U.S. News and World Report (2023) as among the nation's Best Public Affairs Programs.