Chair’s Welcome
Welcome to the Department of Public Administration and Policy Analysis (PAPA) at SIUE, where current and future public servants, nonprofit administrators, policy makers, and engaged citizens come together to acquire the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to manage, lead, and help shape the future of organizations and communities. Whether you are just entering the field, seeking to advance in your profession, or are ready to change career paths, we will collaborate with you to tailor a program to meet your career aspirations.
The SIUE MPA program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA). NASPAA Accreditation supports a global network of programs bound by a commitment to public service values, programmatic improvement, educational quality, and student learning outcomes. The SIUE MPA program is one of less than 10 NASPAA accredited programs offering a fully online MPA that can be earned in as little as 12 months for students taking class on a full-time basis.
With classes offered in eight separate time periods over the course of the year, a student taking courses one per period can complete the degree in as little as 18-24 months. All MPA courses are offered online an asynchronous format that provides students with the flexibility, accessibility, and academic rigor needed to advance their careers while balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Designed for working professionals and learners with diverse schedules, asynchronous courses allow students to engage with course materials, participate in discussions, complete assignments, and apply concepts to real-world challenges at times that best fit their individual needs.
The SIUE MPA program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to excel as leaders in public, nonprofit, and cross-sector organizations. Through a rigorous, practice-oriented curriculum, students develop professional capabilities most valued by today's employers, including:
- Leading and managing public and nonprofit organizations
- Analyzing complex policy and organizational challenges
- Developing and managing budgets and financial resources
- Using data to improve organizational performance and inform decision-making.
- Leading diverse teams and managing human resources
- Communicating effectively with stakeholders, elected officials, and community partners.
- Upholding ethical standards, accountability, and public trust
- Building collaborative partnerships across government, nonprofit, and private sectors
- Planning, implementing, and evaluating programs and public services.
- Navigating complex legal, political, and administrative environments
Please explore our website and if you have any questions, contact our Program Director, Professor Andrew Wesemann (awesema@siue.edu) or PAPA Department Chair Professor Drew Dolan (ddolan@siue.edu) at your convenience. The MPA program accepts applications throughout the year and allows entry prior to each term. We look forward to seeing your application soon https://www.siue.edu/apply/.
