Advance-to-Grad: MPA from Rutgers SPAA

Top-performing undergraduate students who are graduating from Rutgers-Newark may be offered admission to SPAA's Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree program without having to apply

Learn what you'll get by earning your Rutgers SPAA MPA from Associate Dean Aaron Gibbs.

The Advance-to-Grad initiative at Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration (SPAA) is a streamlined opportunity for Rutgers-Newark undergraduate students to continue their studies at SPAA to pursue a graduate degree. SPAA reviews the academic achievements of RU-N undergraduate graduating students and qualified students are automatically offered admission into the Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree program. 

Admission invitations are emailed to highly qualified RU-N undergraduate students graduating in January, May, or August of each year. To accept your admission invitation and join the MPA program, simply follow the link in your email. An application and statement are still required, but most other traditional requirements are waived once the application is submitted.

Join us for a virtual information session to learn more about the MPA program at Rutgers SPAA.

Key Benefits

As part of this streamlined process, there is no need to submit:

  • Letters of recommendation
  • Test scores
  • Fees
Eligibility

RU-N undergraduate students who meet the following criteria are eligible:

  • Enrolled in the final semester of a RU-N bachelor's degree program
  • Hold a cumulative RU-N GPA of 3.0 or higher
  • Applied to graduate in the current semester
  • Not approved to pursue an accelerated master’s degree

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) at Rutgers SPAA

The MPA at Rutgers SPAA provides the cutting-edge knowledge and professional skills needed for successful careers in government, the nonprofit sector, international organizations, and even the corporate world.

The curriculum is designed to prepare students to address complex challenges in public sector management. Students become highly competent in leadership and management, the policy process, evidence-based decision-making, public service values, and interacting productively with a diverse workforce and society. 

Program Highlights
  • Top-Ranked Program: SPAA is consistently ranked as a top school in public and nonprofit management by U.S. News & World Report.
  • Customizable Track: Choose a foundation in either public management or nonprofit management and enjoy the flexibility to shape your degree around your specialized interests and career goals.
  • Specialized Certifications: Apply electives toward one or more certificates offered in Budgeting and Financial Management, Healthcare Administration, Leadership of Public Organizations, Nonprofit Management, and other areas of professional specialization.
  • Experienced & Renowned Faculty: Rutgers SPAA embodies excellence in research and practical proficiency through its distinguished faculty of accomplished scholars and practitioners who bring real-world expertise to the classroom.
  • Applied Learning & Research Opportunities: Students have the opportunity for hands-on learning and research through the projects-based capstone course.
  • Flexibility & Accessibility: Start the program any time of the year on a full- or part-time basis and quickly finish your degree without sacrificing your career or personal commitments.
Quick Facts
  • Modality: On Campus / Online
  • Enrollment: Full-time / Part-time
  • Track Options: Public Management or Nonprofit Management
  • Credits: 42 (21 core credits / 18 elective credits / 3 capstone credits)
  • Courses: 14 (7 core courses / 6 elective courses / 1 capstone)
Curriculum

The MPA curriculum at Rutgers SPAA provides a solid foundation in the field’s core knowledge and skills while allowing students a wide range of flexibility to shape the degree to their interests and career goals. 

 

Affordability

Rutgers University–Newark is committed to making education affordable. Financial aid can consist of a variety of funds in the form of grants, loans, and possible scholarships and tuition assistance.

Paying for College >
Tuition & Fees >
Financial Assistance, Scholarships & Fellowships > 

 

Questions?

If you have questions about the program or the admissions process, contact Aaron Gibbs, associate dean of student and academic services, at algibbs@rutgers.edu.