Best Online MPA Programs: No GRE Required

Explore top-ranked online MPA programs with no GRE requirements. Learn how the admissions process works without test scores and find answers to common questions about cost and accreditation.

The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

Author: Blake Huggins, PhD

Graduate Ed.Online LearningBusiness

Editor: Jordan Cosselman

Updated: 12/16/2025

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FAQ: Commonly Asked Questions Regarding Online MPA
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Top 50 Online MPA Programs: No GRE Required
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With critics citing its weaknesses as a predictor of academic success and denouncing the obstacles it creates for underprivileged students, the graduate records examination (GRE) requirement has been dropped from many online master of public administration (MPA) programs. This means earning your MPA is now easier than ever before. But first, you need to find and select the best program for your goals, timeline, and budget.

This guide will get you started on your search for a quality online MPA program that doesn’t force you to take the GRE. We’ve listed 50 of this year’s best programs below so you can find the one that best meets your needs. You’ll also learn about the admissions process and requirements for no-GRE online MPA programs and get answers to key questions you likely have.

How to Make Your Application Stand Out

Most schools with online no-GRE MPAs use similar admissions criteria. The criteria are essentially the same as those for programs not requiring the GRE, but they place considerably more emphasis on these items without the GRE to use as an indication of readiness. You’ll want to spend sufficient time on each of these elements to make sure you submit a compelling package that reflects your abilities and potential. Our admissions resource offers further guidance on the process.

Essay or Personal Statement

A key component for any application, the admissions essay or personal statement is even more important without the GRE. It helps admissions officials get a sense of who you are and gauge your potential for success. Because your MPA readies you for a career in public service, this is a great opportunity to highlight your goals and interests. These written pieces are your chance to speak in your own voice and advocate for yourself, so be sure to follow a solid writing process.

References or Letters of Recommendation

The exact number of references or letters varies, but most online no-GRE MPA programs require at least two or three. Letters of recommendation should come from previous teachers, employers, or supervisors who can speak to your abilities and discuss your fit within the program and the public administration field more broadly. Choose your references wisely and be sure to reach out to them well in advance of the deadline to discuss your application.

Grade Point Average (GPA)

Admissions officers consider your materials holistically, so it is unlikely that your GPA will make or break you by itself. However, it’s worth keeping in mind that without GRE scores your GPA remains the only way to objectively quantify your academic aptitude against other applicants. Work to develop a strong GPA, especially early in your college career. Some schools, like Tseng College, may specify GPA minimums, so pay close attention to the admissions criteria.

Relevant Work (or Volunteer) Experience

This component is sometimes optional but is especially helpful for hands-on fields like public administration. Showing your record of prior experience demonstrates your familiarity with the field and your commitment to the work it involves. Applicability is key. Listing work or volunteer experience that doesn’t relate to public administration likely won’t help you. In some cases, relevant work experience could fast-track your timeline.

Interview

Interview requirements fluctuate widely. Some require a phone or video interview of all candidates. Others only ask for an interview once you’ve advanced several stages in the process. Some forgo interviews altogether. If an interview is involved, be prepared to professionally and persuasively speak to your goals and standing as an applicant. Consider the interview as an opportunity to expand on the points you made in your admissions essay in more detail.

FAQ: Commonly Asked Questions Regarding Online MPA

Are there NASPAA-accredited online MPA programs that don’t require the GRE?

Quite a few, actually. Schools like Kent State and Tennessee State hold accreditation from the NASPAA and do not require the GRE for admission. NASPAA accreditation is not always necessary, but it can give your degree extra backing and make you a more hirable candidate in the eyes of certain employers. Most schools advertise their accreditation status, but NASPAA also maintains an active roster you can use to cross-check.

How much do no-GRE online MPA programs cost?

Tuition rates fluctuate year to year and can vary from one school to another. The schools profiled above, for example, cost between $450 and $1,650 per credit hour. Factors affecting the cost include your enrollment status (i.e., part-time or full-time) and your place of residence (i.e., whether you live in the same state as the school you plan to attend). See our financial aid guide for more information on scholarships and other ways to cut costs.

How long does it take to finish a no-GRE MPA program?

Quite a few online no-GRE MPA programs are designed with working professionals in mind, which means they build in space for part-time enrollment and some self-pacing. Even with these provisions, you should still be able to graduate within two or three years in most cases. The University of North Georgia, Norwich University, and the University of Central Florida all offer MPAs fitting within this timeframe.

If an online MPA program does need GRE scores, can I get the requirement waived?

Some schools offer a way for students to satisfy additional criteria and obtain a GRE waiver. At places like Clemson, the University of North Dakota, and Florida International, for example, that means you must possess some relevant professional experience or hold some transferable credits at the graduate level. Some schools also waive the GRE if you meet specific GPA requirements (e.g., typically 3.2 or above). Others handle waivers on a case-by-case basis.

Is it worth submitting my GRE scores even if an online MPA program doesn’t require them?

Only if the scores help you stand out. Submitting low GRE scores when they aren’t required could have a negative impact. You don’t want to give admissions officials any reason to reject your application. However, if you’ve already taken the GRE and did well, your scores could be worth sending. Programs like those at Old Dominion and Northeastern note that while the GRE is not required, evidence of academic success is, so a competitive GRE score won’t hurt in these situations.

Top 50 Online MPA Programs: No GRE Required

With so many online MPA programs with no GRE requirement now available, where do you start your search for a quality, affordable program that also works with your schedule? Our school ranking below can help. After analyzing hundreds of schools, we identified this year’s 50 best programs based on data provided by the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). We used key criteria like accreditation, student-to-teacher ratio, overall affordability, and available student support to evaluate each school and come up with our final list.

Read on to learn more about what these programs offer and click on the “About the Ranking” button below for more details on our methodology.

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL

Public · SACSCOC

Florida Atlantic University’s MPA program offers a 36-credit curriculum emphasizing leadership, management, and public service analytics. It includes core courses, electives, and a mandatory internship for those without public sector experience. The program is NASPAA-accredited, flexible in delivery, and prepares students for various public service roles.

Program Highlights:

Florida Atlantic University’s MPA program offers a mandatory 20-hour-per-week government internship for students without public sector experience, providing crucial real-world application and networking opportunities.
The program’s faculty comprises experienced public and nonprofit sector practitioners, delivering applied knowledge that bridges theory with practical leadership skills.
FAU MPA students benefit from hybrid course formats with flexible evening in-person sessions, accommodating working professionals seeking to balance education with career demands.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $5,467
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,648

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

Private · SACSCOC

Liberty University’s online Master of Public Administration (MPA) equips students with Christian-informed leadership skills, covering public policy, economic development, budgeting, and sector-specific management. It offers various specializations, preparing graduates for roles in government and nonprofit organizations through flexible, fully online courses.

Program Highlights:

Liberty University offers significant tuition discounts, including a reduced rate of $290 per graduate credit hour and additional discounts for veterans serving as civilian First Responders.
The MPA program features experienced faculty with real-world public administration backgrounds who provide practical skills and insider knowledge to enhance career readiness.
The program is highly flexible, offering 8-week courses with no set login times and eight start dates per year, allowing working professionals to balance education with personal and professional commitments.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $7,740
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 48,639

University of North Texas

Denton, TX

Public · SACSCOC

The University of North Texas MPA prepares leaders for public and nonprofit management with a 36-40 credit hour curriculum including core courses, electives, and an internship for pre-career students. It emphasizes ethical governance, program evaluation, disaster management, and diversity, allowing graduation in 22 months full-time.

Program Highlights:

The University of North Texas offers 100% online graduate programs in 8-week sessions that start five times per year, allowing students to finish their degrees faster and with flexible scheduling options.
Graduate courses are taught by full-time faculty with real-world professional experience combined with strong academic credentials, enhancing practical learning for working professionals.
The program benefits from powerful industry partnerships and offers specialized career tracks, fueling professional growth and providing valuable networking opportunities.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $7,160
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 7,851

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA

Public · SACSCOC

The George Mason University MPA program develops leadership and management skills focused on public policy and nonprofit sectors. It offers flexible formats, including online, with concentrations in areas like Nonprofit Management, emphasizing analytic, communication, and problem-solving abilities for effective public service careers.

Program Highlights:

The MPA program offers a prestigious Partnership for Public Service internship at federal agencies, including a $3,500 stipend and potential full-time employment.
Accelerated degree options allow undergraduate students to complete up to 18 graduate credits early, counting credits toward both bachelor’s and master’s degrees for faster completion.
Students benefit from evening classes and flexible formats—on-campus, fully online, or hybrid—designed to accommodate working professionals’ schedules.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $13,726
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 6,811

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL

Public · SACSCOC

UCF’s MPA program, nationally ranked and NASPAA-accredited, develops strategic leaders through coursework in public policy, management, and financial administration. It offers hands-on learning, dual degree options, and prepares graduates for impactful careers in public, nonprofit, and criminal justice sectors. Flexible online and on-campus formats are available.

Program Highlights:

The UCF Master of Public Administration program offers a dual degree track combining MPA and Criminal Justice degrees, allowing students to earn two graduate diplomas concurrently, enhancing career versatility.
Students benefit from personalized internship placements through an experiential learning coordinator, providing practical public sector experience tailored to their interests.
The program provides flexible completion options, enabling full-time students to finish in as little as two academic years while accommodating part-time students balancing work and family commitments.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $6,916
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 5,106

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL

Public · SACSCOC

The USF MPA program prepares students for leadership in public and nonprofit sectors through a 39-credit curriculum emphasizing managerial skills, policy analysis, and ethical public service. It offers small classes, internships, and opportunities for real-world problem solving, fostering accountable, community-focused public servants.

Program Highlights:

The USF MPA program offers a mentorship opportunity that pairs students with senior regional public administrators, enhancing professional growth and networking.
Their internship program is strongly connected with local governments and nonprofit organizations, often serving as a direct pathway to employment.
Courses are primarily scheduled in the evenings on the Tampa campus to accommodate working professionals, providing flexibility without compromising in-person learning quality.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $8,350
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 5,373

Lamar University

Beaumont, TX

Public · SACSCOC

Lamar University’s online MPA program develops leadership skills for public service careers in government, nonprofit, emergency management, healthcare, and education. It emphasizes practical training in budgeting, policy, and crisis management, preparing graduates for diverse roles that positively impact communities and public organizations. The program requires 36 credit hours.

Program Highlights:

Lamar University’s MPA program offers a fast track option that allows exceptional undergraduate students to earn both their bachelor's and master's degrees in five years, saving time and accelerating career entry.
The program provides an affordable online degree under $10,000, making it accessible to working professionals seeking advancement without financial strain.
Students benefit from specialized courses in hazard and disaster response and management, preparing them for critical public administration roles in emergency situations.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $6,471
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 8,900

Purdue University Global

West Lafayette, IN

Public · HLC

The Purdue Global MPA online program develops leadership skills for effective public sector management, ethical decision-making, budgeting, strategic planning, and human resource management. It prepares students to create public value, innovate in governance, and assess policy impacts through a flexible, practical curriculum with multiple start dates.

Program Highlights:

Purdue Global’s Master of Public Administration program offers dedicated career support services including resume reviews, interview preparation, portfolio development, virtual career fairs, and 24/7 job search access to help students secure employment.
Students benefit from a hands-on capstone project that provides real-world experience by addressing complex public administration issues, enhancing practical skills applicable to leadership roles.
The program is designed for flexibility with multiple start dates and fully online delivery, allowing students to balance their studies with career and personal commitments while completing the degree in as little as 18 months full-time.

School Type Public
Application Fee No
Tuition $9,547
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 12,630

Florida International University

Miami, FL

Public · SACSCOC

FIU’s online Master of Public Administration (MPA) program is NASPAA-accredited, offering 42 credit hours with flexible full- or part-time study. It prepares professionals for leadership in public and nonprofit sectors through a curriculum emphasizing public service, community empowerment, and social impact. Scholarships and tuition waivers are available.

Program Highlights:

Florida International University's online MPA program offers in-state tuition and state employee tuition waivers, along with multiple scholarship opportunities, enhancing affordability for eligible students.
The program features several specialized certificates in areas like Public Finance, Homeland Security, and Urban Policy, allowing students to graduate with both an MPA degree and a career-focused specialization without extra credits.
FIU’s Executive MPA hybrid track includes three in-person academic residencies combined with online coursework, providing structured networking and experiential learning alongside full-time faculty and public sector leaders.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $9,119
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 4,798

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Columbus, OH

Public · HLC

The Online Master of Public Administration and Leadership at Ohio State’s John Glenn College equips mid-career professionals with flexible, practical skills to lead public and nonprofit organizations, complete in about two years, while fostering a collaborative, impact-driven community. It blends core courses and electives totaling 32 credits.

Program Highlights:

The Ohio State University's Online Master of Public Administration and Leadership offers four specialization tracks allowing students to tailor their degree to specific interests like Public Management or Criminal Justice.
The program provides extensive student support, including a dedicated program manager and technical support, ensuring a seamless online learning experience for working professionals.
Students join a vibrant community of public service professionals committed to leadership development and social impact, fostering valuable networking and collaboration opportunities.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $12,515
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 5,321

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

Scottsdale, AZ

Public · HLC

ASU’s online Master of Public Administration program develops leadership, ethical decision-making, and management skills for impactful public service across government, nonprofits, and private sectors. It offers a 42-credit curriculum with core courses, electives, and a capstone project, focusing on policy analysis, finance, and organizational behavior.

Program Highlights:

Arizona State University's online MPA program offers an accelerated master's option that allows students to earn a bachelor's and master's degree in as few as five years, enabling faster career advancement.
The program’s diploma does not indicate online status, providing graduates with the same credential recognized for quality as in-person degrees from ASU.
The School of Public Affairs has a large, active MPA student network and proud alumni, enhancing professional networking and career opportunities for students.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $10,170
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 16,752

University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus

Denver, CO

Public · HLC

CU Denver’s online MPA prepares leaders for government and nonprofit sectors through a 36-credit curriculum including core courses, electives, and a capstone project. Specializations cover areas like emergency management, with flexible formats and an internship requirement for those lacking relevant work experience.

Program Highlights:

CU Denver offers an accelerated 1-year MPA cohort program that enables motivated students to complete their degree quickly while forming strong peer and faculty connections.
The online MPA is 100% online with flexible pacing options, allowing students to complete the program anytime between two and six years, accommodating diverse schedules without compromising quality.
Students benefit from expert faculty with real-world experience and gain access to Colorado's capital's extensive professional networks across government, nonprofits, and think tanks.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $8,100
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 4,657

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, AL

Public · SACSCOC

UAB’s Master of Public Administration prepares ethical, inclusive leaders for public service careers through a flexible, knowledge- and skills-based curriculum. Courses focus on government, nonprofit management, and public policy, with classes offered evenings or online to fit busy schedules. Accredited and nationally recognized, the program offers strong local networking opportunities.

Program Highlights:

The UAB MPA program offers an Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s (ABM) option allowing undergraduates to apply up to 12 credit hours toward both degrees, enabling faster completion.
Students benefit from strong networking opportunities connecting them with government and nonprofit leaders for enhanced career placement locally and nationally.
The program holds NASPAA accreditation and is consistently ranked among the top 75 MPA programs nationally, reflecting high academic quality and faculty expertise.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $8,424
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 5,214

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL

Public · SACSCOC

The Askew School’s MPA program at Florida State University is NASPAA-accredited, preparing diverse students for careers in government and nonprofits with comprehensive coursework, career tracks, and an applied capstone. It offers flexible electives and emphasizes public service ethics and leadership.

Program Highlights:

The Askew School MPA program offers specialized career tracks such as local government management, financial management, and emergency management to tailor student expertise.
Students benefit from nationally recognized faculty known for leadership in public policy and applied research, enhancing academic and professional credibility.
The program provides a combined bachelor's/master’s pathway allowing students to complete up to 12 graduate credits before finishing their undergraduate degree, accelerating time to graduation.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $9,684
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 5,083

Webster University

Saint Louis, MO

Private · HLC

Webster University’s MPA program develops leadership and management skills for public and nonprofit sectors, focusing on public policy decision-making, ethics, budgeting, and research. It offers flexible learning formats and prepares graduates for diverse roles in government, nonprofits, and consulting globally. Accredited by ACBSP.

Program Highlights:

Webster University's MPA program offers 100% online coursework designed specifically for working professionals, allowing immediate application of classroom learning to current jobs.
The program features personalized faculty support in intentionally small classes, enhancing direct engagement and academic success for every student.
Students can choose from specialized areas of emphasis such as Cybersecurity, integrating public administration with cutting-edge sector skills.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $13,140
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 4,365

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA

Private · WSCUC

The USC Price online MPA program requires a bachelor’s degree, resume, official transcripts, statement of purpose, and three recommendation letters. Two years of work experience are recommended but not mandatory. The GRE/GMAT is no longer required, and a $90 application fee applies, with available fee waivers. Some residency restrictions apply.

Program Highlights:

The USC Price School of Public Policy’s online MPA program offers scholarship opportunities that renew annually, supporting students with demonstrated academic merit and professional experience.
Admissions have eliminated the GRE/GMAT requirement, using holistic review instead, which simplifies the application and allows for diverse candidate evaluation.
Students may fulfill the required 300-hour internship with their current employer, enhancing practical experience without needing to find a new placement independently.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $66,640
Accreditation WSCUC
Online Students 12,927

Excelsior University

Albany, NY

Private · MSCHE

Excelsior University’s online MPA program equips students with skills in ethical leadership, finance, technology planning, and public policy management. It emphasizes practical experience, strategic decision-making, and building a professional portfolio, preparing graduates for leadership roles in government and nonprofit sectors. Concentrations include public and cannabis control administration.

Program Highlights:

Excelsior's MPA program offers a unique interdisciplinary core focusing on ethical leadership, strategic talent management, and data-driven decision making, preparing students with practical skills for public administration.
The program provides a fully online, flexible format with courses starting every 8 weeks, designed to accommodate working professionals and adult learners seeking career advancement in public and nonprofit sectors.
Graduates complete the program with a comprehensive professional portfolio, enhancing job readiness by showcasing practical experience in presentations, strategic planning, financial reporting, and data analysis to prospective employers.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition N/A
Accreditation MSCHE
Online Students 1,776

University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Little Rock, AR

Public · HLC

The UALR Master of Public Administration (MPA) offers 36 graduate credit hours focused on leadership, management, and analytical skills for public and nonprofit sectors, including a capstone seminar with real-world projects. It supports career advancement and doctoral preparation in public administration.

Program Highlights:

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock MPA program offers a hybrid format accredited by NASPAA with no GRE/GMAT requirement, facilitating flexible admissions for busy professionals.
The program includes a service-learning capstone seminar where students complete a real-world project sponsored by local government or nonprofit agencies, enhancing practical experience.
A unique dual degree option combines the MPA with a Juris Doctor from the School of Law, expanding career opportunities in both public administration and legal fields.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $5,850
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 1,543

National University

San Diego, CA

Private · WSCUC

Norwich University’s online MPA program prepares professionals for leadership in public service through a comprehensive, multidisciplinary curriculum focusing on organizational management, strategic planning, ethics, and public policy implementation, with an emphasis on real-world problem-solving and experiential learning. Flexible format supports working students.

Program Highlights:

Norwich University offers tuition discounts and scholarships, including additional savings for students whose organizations have partnerships with the university, helping reduce overall education costs.
The program features a flexible online platform connecting students globally while delivering values-based education tailored to public administration challenges.
Students engage with faculty who are leaders in public administration, benefiting from practitioner-oriented seminars that emphasize real-world problem solving, leadership, and interdisciplinary competence.

School Type Private
Application Fee No
Tuition $15,912
Accreditation WSCUC
Online Students 9,248

University of Houston

Houston, TX

Public · SACSCOC

The University of Houston’s MPA program offers advanced training for public managers with a 36-credit, two-year curriculum combining core courses, electives, and a capstone project. It emphasizes metropolitan policy issues, flexible evening classes, and customizable specializations to fit career goals in public administration.

Program Highlights:

The University of Houston MPA program offers Hobby School Excellence Scholarships providing up to $3,000 per semester to eligible students, easing financial burdens.
It features flexible evening classes and some hybrid/online course options designed to accommodate working professionals’ schedules.
The program emphasizes specialization electives approved by the director with interdisciplinary coursework available across multiple UH departments, allowing tailored expertise development.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $8,723
Accreditation SACSCOC
Online Students 3,490

Southeast Missouri State University

Cape Girardeau, MO

Public · HLC

The SEMO MPA online program requires 36 credit hours, including core courses, electives, and a capstone internship or thesis. It prepares students for public and nonprofit leadership roles through practical coursework like budgeting, policy analysis, and research methods. An accelerated track is also available.

Program Highlights:

Southeast Missouri State University's MPA program offers an Accelerated MPA option allowing eligible undergraduates to count up to four 500-level courses toward both undergraduate and graduate degrees, speeding up completion.
The program includes a 120-hour capstone internship with a host organization, providing practical experience and a scholarly paper, enhancing real-world application and career readiness.
Students benefit from personalized faculty advising that supports scholarly and professional opportunities beyond classroom learning, fostering strong mentorship and networking.

School Type Public
Application Fee No
Tuition $6,565
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 1,157

DePaul University

Chicago, IL

Private · HLC

The DePaul MPA prepares students for leadership in public service, emphasizing ethical management, social justice, and effective governance across local, state, federal, and international sectors. It offers specialized concentrations and develops skills in finance, human resources, policy analysis, and organizational leadership.

Program Highlights:

DePaul's MPA offers flexible completion options with both on-campus and fully online modalities, catering to diverse student needs and schedules.
The program features specialized concentrations including cybersecurity, emergency management, and metropolitan planning, allowing tailored career focus in public administration.
Students can gain practical experience through an optional government internship or professional development course credit, enhancing real-world readiness.

School Type Private
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $22,135
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 4,689

Southern Arkansas University Main Campus

Magnolia, AR

Public · HLC

The MPA program at Southern Arkansas University prepares leaders for public service, focusing on public policy, organizational management, and decision-making with a social entrepreneurship emphasis. It requires 36 credit hours, is offered online, and develops critical thinking, leadership, and culturally responsive communication skills.

Program Highlights:

Southern Arkansas University’s MPA program requires a student-led professional project that applies acquired skills to solve real-world public or nonprofit organizational challenges, enhancing practical experience.
The MPA offers a unique Social Entrepreneurship emphasis, equipping students to address social problems innovatively by blending public sector knowledge with business tools.
The program features a 4+1 joint BA/MPA option that enables students to complete both degrees in five years, accelerating career preparation and reducing total time in school.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $5,616
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 1,857

Arizona State University Campus Immersion

Tempe, AZ

Public · HLC

Arizona State University’s online Master of Public Administration prepares students for leadership in government, nonprofits, and private sectors. The 42-credit program emphasizes policy analysis, public management, ethics, and financial oversight, fostering skills in organizational behavior, change management, and ethical governance for impactful public service.

Program Highlights:

Arizona State University's online MPA program offers an accelerated master's option allowing students to earn both a bachelor's and master's degree in as few as five years.
The program provides diplomas that do not specify whether the degree was earned online or in person, offering equal recognition and prestige.
Students benefit from specialized concentrations, such as emergency management and nonprofit administration, tailored to equip leaders with sector-specific skills and knowledge.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $12,376
Accreditation HLC
Online Students 2,881

San Diego State University

San Diego, CA

Public · WSCUC

SDSU’s online MPA is a competitive, 16-month program for experienced government professionals, focusing on leadership, policy, and public service. It includes core coursework, electives, and a capstone project, preparing graduates for senior roles in public, nonprofit, and urban sectors. Cohorts study in six 8-week modules.

Program Highlights:

The SDSU online MPA program is structured as an accelerated, 16-month degree with six, eight-week modules and includes two on-campus experiences, enabling faster completion while maintaining rigorous academic standards.
Students benefit from instruction by experienced faculty from SDSU’s School of Public Affairs, who focus on equipping graduates with in-demand skills for leadership roles in government and nonprofit sectors.
The program offers robust networking opportunities by connecting online learners who are current in-service professionals, fostering peer cohorts and engagement with industry leaders.

School Type Public
Application Fee Yes
Tuition $7,176
Accreditation WSCUC
Online Students 1,649

Best Online MPA Programs with No GRE Requirement

How to Make Your Application Stand Out

Essay or Personal Statement

References or Letters of Recommendation

Grade Point Average (GPA)

Relevant Work (or Volunteer) Experience

Interview

FAQ: Commonly Asked Questions Regarding Online MPA

Are there NASPAA-accredited online MPA programs that don’t require the GRE?

How much do no-GRE online MPA programs cost?

How long does it take to finish a no-GRE MPA program?

If an online MPA program does need GRE scores, can I get the requirement waived?

Is it worth submitting my GRE scores even if an online MPA program doesn’t require them?

Top 50 Online MPA Programs: No GRE Required

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