University of Connecticut

The MPA program at the University of Connecticut provides students with a dynamic and integrated approach to the field of public policy and management. The high quality of our academic program is the product of an outstanding faculty and the resources of a research university. The use of practical experiences and internships as learning tools, combined with theory, analysis, and case studies in the classroom, make our program job-relevant and intellectually challenging. Problem-oriented courses prepare students for an important responsibility of public managers-decision-making. The program develops the skills managers need to diagnose problems, collect and analyze information, plan, choose among policy alternatives, communicate findings, implement programs, and manage change.
The student's plan of study is individually developed in consultation with a major advisor to meet his or her goals and interests. The program has an interdisciplinary focus and encourages inclusion of relevant university courses in such disciplines as economics, geography, political science, public health, law, education, social work, business administration, and survey research.

The program serves students with a diverse range of interests and backgrounds and places them in a wide variety of occupations. Our graduates work in local, state, and federal government, as well as in nonprofit, teaching, and research positions. While our emphasis is on public service, some graduates have successfully pursued careers in the private sector.