The Master in Public Administration (MPA) and Master in Public Policy (MPP) fast track degrees at the University of Connecticut might be right for you.
The MPA and MPP fast track masters allow upperclassmen to take graduate-level courses. Taking these courses during undergraduate years helps meet the academic requirements to earn a master’s with just one additional year. In addition, the MPA and MPP credits count toward the 120 credits needed for undergraduate graduation. Students can apply for the fast-track program as early as a sophomore year but only start taking courses during their junior year. MPA and MPP coursework are offered both in Storrs and Hartford.
You might be wondering, what is the difference between the two programs? The MPA program focuses on the management and leadership skills necessary for a career in public administration. Students who graduate from the MPA program are leaders in organizations across the country. In addition, the MPA program offers multiple concentrations to allow students to tailor their degree to their industry of interest.
The MPP program focuses on the quantitative and analytical skills needed to evaluate different policies. Both programs come with a required paid internship where students can accumulate over 500 hours of experience in a government, non-profit, or public organization throughout the state. An MPA will be better suited for people interested in managing non-profit and government organizations. An MPP is better suited for people interested in addressing national issues through political and economic policies.
To conclude, both degrees will get you well on your way to a career in the public sector and help you serve your community better. In addition, the fast-track MPA and MPP here at the University of Connecticut will allow you to acquire your master’s in a shorter period and get started on your career.
More information on the fast track programs can be found on the Department of Public Policy site here.
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