Master of Public Administration
Lead where it matters most. Drake’s MPA equips you to serve communities, shape policy, and drive meaningful change in the public and nonprofit sectors.
Zimpleman College of Business | Online
Program Options
Online MPA
The MPA offers a flexible, standalone path for professionals from any undergraduate background. Build a strong foundation in public service and develop skills you can apply right away.
Accelerated MPA
Are you an undergraduate student interested in earning your MPA alongside your bachelor's? In an accelerated program, graduate courses begin after you have completed 90 credit hours, typically during your senior year. Accelerated programs are open to any undergraduate major.
Doctor of Jurisprudence/MPA
This pathway combines legal studies with a multi-disciplinary professional education in public management and policy. Both degrees can be completed in six semesters and two summers.
Customize Your MPA to Meet Your Career Goals
Drawing on the expertise of the renowned faculty at the Zimpleman College of Business, the Drake MPA curriculum is enriched by experiential learning, team collaboration, and real-world scenarios. Adaptable in its design, you can tailor the degree program to align with your specific goals through career-focused curriculum in areas such as:
- Public & Nonprofit Management – Expand your ability to lead and manage with confidence as you complete coursework that focuses on public administration, public policy and advocacy, exploring the changing nature of public service to maximize impact and building organizations with resiliency and talent to do good.
- CPM-MPA Pathway – Learn what it takes to become a certified public manager in a blended format of in-person and virtual sessions.
Go Further with Drake
Networking Opportunities
You’ll connect with classmates from across the country, bringing a range of professional backgrounds and perspectives. These connections can expand your network, spark new ideas, and support you during your program and beyond.
Dedicated Enrollment Specialists
An Enrollment Management Specialist will be assigned to help you throughout your journey with Drake. They will assist you with advising, registration, and any other questions you have.
Immediate Career Skills
Courses are designed with real-world application in mind. You’ll gain skills you can use right away, helping you grow in your role and take the next step in your career.
Careers & Skills
With these in-demand skills, you’ll be well-positioned for career growth in government, nonprofit leadership, and beyond. Public relations and fundraising management jobs, for example, are projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032—outpacing the average for most occupations. Drake’s MPA program gives you the tools to seize these opportunities and lead with confidence. Depending on your concentration, there are many career paths you can choose.
Careers
- Public Sector Manager
- Nonprofit Manager
- Community Affairs Manager
- Nurse Manager
- Director of Patient Safety
- Volunteer Manager
- City Manager
- Chief of Police
- Director of Public Works
- Fundraising Director
Skills
- Leadership
- Management
- Planning
- Project Management
MPA Admission & Application
To be eligible to enroll for the Public Administration Master's at Drake, applicants must have earned a bachelor’s degree from an institution accredited by the Higher Learning Commission or comparable association. No GRE or GMAT is required for admission.
You will find the basic steps for applying below. Information for international students and where to send your transcripts can be found in the next drop-down.
- Open the Drake Online graduate application portal.
- Create or log in to an existing account.
- Fill out the information required on the application. Please be prepared to provide information such as basic personal details, previous institutions attended, and your most current employment.
- Submit copies of transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities. Upon acceptance, applicants that were admitted with unofficial transcripts will need to request official transcripts be sent to Drake University directly from previously attended colleges or universities. Official electronic transcripts may be sent to drakeonline@drake.edu. Official paper transcripts may be sent to the following:
Drake University
Attn: Office of Admissions
2507 University Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50311 - Submit an electronic copy of your résumé or curriculum vitae.
- Submit a one-page essay detailing how a graduate education at Drake University will help you reach your academic and professional goals.
- Submit contact information for two professional recommendations. These individuals will receive emails from Drake Online to provide a letter of recommendation.
Transcript Information
Mail transcripts to:
Attn: Drake Online & Continuing Education
2507 University Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50311
Transfer Credits
International Students
Our program has 6 intakes per year, making it easy to start as soon as you're ready. See our upcoming dates below so you can plan accordingly.
| Semester | Start Date | Application Deadline | Registration Deadline |
| Summer Term 2 | 07/06/2026 | 06/29/2026 | 07/02/2026 |
| Fall Term 1 | 08/24/2026 | 08/17/2026 | 08/20/2026 |
| Fall Term 2 | 10/19/2026 | 10/12/2026 | 10/15/2026 |
| Spring Term 1 | 01/25/2027 | 01/18/2027 | 01/21/2027 |
| Spring Term 2 | 03/22/2027 | 03/15/2027 | 03/18/2027 |
Take the Next Step.
Move forward with a graduate degree that builds practical skills you can use right away. Apply today or connect with our team to get started.
Contact
Drake Online & Continuing Education
drakeonline@drake.edu
