Multi-Sector Public Service (MPA)

  • Master of Public Administration
  • Strome College of Business
  • School of Public Service
Next Start Date
Aug 24, 2026
Accelerated Courses
NASPAA Accredited
Program Highlights
  • Rolling admission to start in any semester
  • GRE not required

Why ODU for a multi-sector public service MPA?

The public sector needs individuals who can help organizations work together, improve public programs and create solutions that serve communities. Our Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Multi-Sector Public Service will help you become a leader who can drive change in today’s complex public service environment.

In this MPA concentration, you will learn how to approach public challenges from many angles. You'll examine how social, economic and political forces shape policy, management and governance decisions. You will also develop leadership and collaboration skills to work effectively across government, nonprofit and private sectors.

Through courses with expert faculty, you will learn how to:

  • Think critically about policy and management decisions
  • Analyze public service challenges across sectors
  • Develop solutions for complex community needs 
  • Work with partners in government, nonprofit and private organizations 

When you graduate, you'll be ready to lead, serve, and make a difference at local, state and national levels.

ODU's Master of Public Administration program is NASPAA accredited by the Commission on Peer Review & Accreditation.

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Program Information

Total
39 Credit Hours

You will take eight core MPA courses and five courses in the multi-sector public service concentration.

Practical professional experience in a public or nonprofit agency setting is an important component of our MPA curriculum. A formal internship is highly recommended for students who do not have significant experience in a public or nonprofit agency.

Explore Multi-Sector Public Service MPA Courses in the Catalog

Accelerated Courses

Courses in this program follow an accelerated 8-week format.

There are no scheduled meeting times, so you can fit your studies into your personal schedule. You will access course materials and complete assignments online. The instructor may schedule specific deadlines for assignments or specific times to take exams.

Are you a current ODU undergraduate interested in earning a Master's in Public Administration?

Get a head start! In the Early Start MPA program, you can earn graduate credit toward your MPA while you complete your bachelor’s degree.

Early Start MPA

Total
39 Credit Hours

You will take eight core MPA courses and five courses in the multi-sector public service concentration.

Practical professional experience in a public or nonprofit agency setting is an important component of our MPA curriculum. A formal internship is highly recommended for students who do not have significant experience in a public or nonprofit agency.

Explore Multi-Sector Public Service MPA Courses in the Catalog

Accelerated Courses

Courses in this program follow an accelerated 8-week format.

There are no scheduled meeting times, so you can fit your studies into your personal schedule. You will access course materials and complete assignments online. The instructor may schedule specific deadlines for assignments or specific times to take exams.

Are you a current ODU undergraduate interested in earning a Master's in Public Administration?

Get a head start! In the Early Start MPA program, you can earn graduate credit toward your MPA while you complete your bachelor’s degree.

Early Start MPA

Cost & Aid

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Calculating Cost
In-state Virginia Residents
$672 per credit hour*
Out-of-state Students
$662 per credit hour

Rates are effective Fall 2026 and subject to change.

* In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met. Includes $510 standard tuition + $162 mandatory auxiliary tuition.

The newest class of graduates through ODUGlobal celebrated commencement in May 2024.
Scholarships & Aid

Scholarship Opportunities for Online Students

At ODUGlobal, we offer a variety of scholarships to support and empower you in achieving your academic and career goals, making quality education accessible wherever you are. 
 

Careers

Many of our MPA graduates have continued on to study in PhD programs and have held leadership and career positions such as:

  • City Managers
  • Program Planners
  • Policy Analysts
  • Managers at federal, state, local & nonprofit agencies
  • Consultants
Fundraising Managers
Growth
5.9%
Median Salary
$119,200
Urban and Regional Planners
Growth
4.3%
Median Salary
$81,800
Social and Community Service Managers
Growth
8.2%
Median Salary
$77,030
Public Relations Managers
Growth
6.9%
Median Salary
$134,760

ODUGlobal Graduate Admissions Team

Elaine Ross, Assistant Director of Graduate and International Admissions

Contact us at globalgradadmit@odu.edu about admission requirements, deadlines, or anything else you need to know about the application process!

Angel Baker
Angel Baker
Applications Coordinator
Angela Schlender
Angela Schlender
Applications Coordinator

Ready to Apply?

We offer rolling admission for the MPA program. You can start in the Fall, Spring, or Summer semester.

GRE is not required, but admission to the MPA program is competitive. You must show that you are ready for graduate study through your application materials, including all college transcripts, a personal statement, and two recommendations. Review MPA application details in the graduate catalog.

Want to get started now?

You may be able to take up to four courses (12 credit hours) as a non-degree graduate student, before you are accepted into a specific degree program. 

Please contact us to discuss this option with an expert advisor.