Program Availability

The Accelerated MPA program is available to qualified U.S. and international applicants who meet admission requirements. It can be completed on campus or 100 percent online. Designed for undergraduates in Indiana State’s undergraduate political science program, this 4+1 pathway lets you begin graduate coursework during your senior year and earn both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years. 

Coursework is offered primarily online, with some hybrid and in-person classes also available. 

Why Choose the Public Administration Accelerated Master’s Program at Indiana State?

Whether you aspire to become a city leader, policy analyst, nonprofit director, or community advocate, the Accelerated MPA program helps you get there faster. You’ll learn how to solve real-world problems and make your community a better place. 

If you plan to earn a bachelor’s degree in political science and follow it with a master’s in public administration, our accelerated master’s program allows you to finish both degrees in less time and at a lower cost. 

Go Further Faster

The MPA Accelerated (4+1) program expands your studies in the undergraduate political science program. Here are the advantages: 

• You begin taking graduate-level courses during your senior year of college.
• You finish your master’s degree just one year after your bachelor's degree. 
• You enter the workforce earlier, with advanced credentials that make your resume stand out. 

In the Accelerated MPA program, you can get ahead without taking longer, spending more, or adding extra stress. And you won’t have to navigate it alone. Your advisor will walk you through eligibility, GPA requirements, and exactly which steps to take so you stay on track.

Learn from Our Excellent Faculty

Imagine learning from professors who not only know your name but are also researchers and professionals with real-world experience in government, policy, and public service. Your faculty in Indiana State’s Department of Political Science bring their personal experiences into the classroom with stories and insights you won’t find in a textbook. 

Because classes are small and personal, your professors will serve as partners in your academic journey. They’ll work with you one-on-one each semester to help you choose the courses that fit your academic and career path. They are invested in your success, and they’ll guide you through hands-on research, connect you with internships, and open doors to career opportunities. 

What You’ll Learn in the Accelerated MPA Program

In the Accelerated MPA, you’ll learn how to make change happen. You will take your ideas for improving your community and turn them into real action, whether that means shaping policy, understanding government processes, creating budgets that address needs, or advocating for public services. 

Courses are hands-on and practical. The Accelerated MPA builds on the political science courses you’ll complete as part of your bachelor’s degree. 

Whether you picture yourself brainstorming big ideas, organizing community events, or teaming up with nonprofit leaders, the Accelerated MPA program allows you to pursue your desire to help others. 

View required courses

Career Possibilities for Public Administration Graduates 

The Accelerated MPA program at Indiana State prepares you with the practical skills to lead public and nonprofit organizations. The program is a launchpad for careers that serve communities in meaningful ways: managing a city, directing a nonprofit, crafting policies, or analyzing budgets. Whether working in local government, nonprofit organizations, or public agencies, our graduates help turn community needs into practical solutions. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment in public policy and social services is expected to grow in many areas from 2024 to 2034: 

• Management analysts: 9% (faster than average), with a median annual wage of $101,190 reported in 2024
• Social and community service managers: 6% (faster than average), with a median annual wage of $78,240 reported in 2024 
• Medical and health services managers: 23% (faster than average), with a median annual wage of $117,960 reported in 2024
• Public relations and fundraising managers: 5% (faster than average), with a median annual wage of $132,870 reported in 2024

Accreditation

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The Public Administration Program was established as a semi-autonomous unit within Indiana State’s Department of Political Science in 1976. The full-time director of the public administration program manages both the MPA degree program and the two PA certificate programs and advises students. The program is currently a member of the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA) and is associated with the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA).