Master of Public Administration Curriculum

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Required Courses in CCU's Master of Public Administration Program

The Master of Public Administration degree program at CCU allows students to approach the study of public administration with a focus on public policy within a Christian worldview. The curriculum combines theoretical content and practical application of public policy issues.

CCU's MPA program is designed to provide students with a solid understanding of all aspects of government operations, including its finances, its politics, and its policy formation. With a focus on Christ-centered leadership, character development, and organizational change, students will be prepared to accept leadership positions in local and state government as well as nonprofit organizations.

MPA courses equip graduates to facilitate change in organizations and communities through a strong technical foundation in government operations, exceptional servant leadership skills, logic-centered resource allocation, and evidence-based public policy analysis.

CCU students participate in classes that blend the latest in eLearning technology with the latest educational theory and practice. Students attend classes online, do research using the Internet, exchange emails, and participate in online discussions. Even assignments and tests are submitted online.

MPA required courses

Students are required to complete 12 courses (36 credit hours) for the Master of Public Administration degree.

Some of the foundational courses include:

  • Introduction to Public Administration (PAD 501) and Governmental Law (PAD 505). These courses provide students with a solid background in the structure and processes of governance in the United States. Students will explore the legal authority and political realities of public policy and the responsibilities of elected and appointed officials in the various levels and forms of government.
  • Leadership Theory and Practice (PAD 511). This course helps students understand the theories and practical applications of predominant leadership styles with special emphasis on the Biblical principles related to organizational leadership.
  • Leading Organizational Change (PAD 525). There is an expectation that a public administrator will improve things — improvement implies change. This course equips the organizational leader with the knowledge, tools, and techniques for managing in leading change within the 21st-century organization and/or community, including assessing, evaluating, implementing, and managing change initiatives.
  • Public Information and Civic Engagement (PAD 565). This course introduces students to the process and principles of public engagement, public response, and public information, including dealing with the media. Students will be equipped with communication and presentation skills that will help them effectively communicate issues, build trust and create transparency in a governmental organization.
  • Leading Public Policy (PAD 605). This course exposes students to the process of public policy development, analysis, and implementation. Assignments will offer practice in identifying issues, building allies, developing consensus, obtaining consent, and isolating influencers. We will discuss and justify positions on some of the most controversial topics of our day.

Course Catalog

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