Open University Business School
Welcome to the Open University Business School

Programmes of Study

Master of Public Administration (MPA)

Accredited by Association of MBAs 

If you’re working in public services like government, education, or health – or in the not-for-profit sector – we have the management programme for you.

The MPA offers the benefits of a general master's degree, with all the advantages of a more specialist approach. The main focus of the programme is on developing your knowledge and skills in the context of your own work (such as criminal justice, health, regional planning etc). Flexible course options enable you to focus on to areas as diverse as international development, education, social policy or the environment – ensuring maximum relevance to the particular challenges you face.

Routes through the MPA

Courses

See full qualification description

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How The Programme Works

Your entry point and the best route through the MPA depend on your experience and qualifications, as well as your particular needs and interests.

The MPA has two stages.  Stage One provides a sound foundation in the functional aspects of management. You take one of two programmes, the  Professional Diploma in Management or the Postgraduate Certificate in Business Administration. Stage Two comprises three courses that everyone takes, plus an elective (course option) to ensure your studies are in tune with your career.

Flexible Timescales

We’ve designed Stage Two of the MPA to be as flexible as possible, so you can qualify in the minimum time, or spread the workload a little more.

Planning Your MPA

To complete your MPA in 2.5 years
Overlap the study of your compulsory courses with Making a difference.

Planning MPA 1

To complete your MPA in 3 years
Overlap the study of your course option with Making a difference.

Planning MPA 2

To complete your MPA in 3.5 years
Study each of your courses in sequence, ending with Making a difference.

Planning MPA 3

 Note:
* Guide only and dependent on your choice of course option.  These can be 6, 9 or 12 months in length.


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