Admission in the program is competitive and limited to the strongest nominees and applicants in order to maintain a class size of no more than 25. The program is specifically designed for the formal education of potential governmental and nonprofit executive leaders. Nominees and applicants often come from high-level administrative posts. A Bachelor’s degree, or its equivalent, from a recognized institution of higher education is required, as is an undergraduate Grade Point Average of 3.0 or better. Nominees and applicants must have at least six years of supervisory or managerial experience.

Accredited by NASPAA, the EMPA program prepares seasoned managers for executive-level leadership by providing a solid knowledge base and the competencies necessary for successful practice in government and nonprofit organizations. Courses are scheduled conveniently on Friday afternoons and Saturday mornings so that the normal work week is minimally disturbed.  Graduates are employed in high-level positions, including: Commissioner of Labor for New Jersey, Director of the Newark Office for the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Senior Budget Policy Analysts and Section Chief for a State of New Jersey Hospital.