A&M-Central Texas is proud to announce the launch of a new graduate degree in Master of Public Administration (MPA) beginning in Spring 2025. This innovative graduate degree is designed to equip public service professionals, as well as military personnel transitioning to civilian careers, with the leadership and management skills needed to succeed in government and nonprofit organizations.
Located near Fort Cavazos, A&M-Central Texas is uniquely positioned to serve the needs of both military-affiliated students and civilians. The MPA program offers a valuable opportunity for veterans and active-duty service members to transition their leadership experience into meaningful public service roles, enabling them to make a lasting impact in their communities.
Tammy Bracewell, Ph.D. and Chair of the Department of Social Sciences, emphasized the program's focus on practical, real-world applications saying that students will explore key issues related to public service, including issues of management and organizational theory within the context of policy decisions that shape our society.
In an era where local, state, and federal leaders face complex challenges, this graduate level program in public administration prepares graduates to address critical issues through policy analysis, strategic management, and community-focused leadership. The curriculum provides a balance between academic rigor and practical experience, ensuring students are well-equipped to make a tangible difference in their roles.
The 36-credit hour program includes a robust 18-hour core covering essential topics such as public policy processes, ethics in public service, research methods, and strategic planning. Students can tailor their remaining coursework to align with their career aspirations, selecting from electives like public budgeting, project management, organizational behavior, and political forecasting.
Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce President Scott Connell applauded the addition of the new program, noting that the many cities in the Central Texas area would benefit from the new program, both in the potential of professional development and degree advancement for current city and public service employees and new graduate degree recipients who will stay in the area at work for local governments.
For more information on the application process, program details, and to learn more about A&M-Central Texas' affordable tuition and flexible admissions requirements, visit www.tamuct.edu or the MPA degree page.