The University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) is currently the only school in the state of Oklahoma that offers an online Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree program. Blending theoretical and applied learning, the online MPA curriculum at UCO emphasizes the effect of leadership and managerial skills as they relate to the function, impact, and operation of nonprofit and public organizations. The program can be completed fully online without on-campus or residential requirements. UCO is a public university regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and has attained programmatic accreditation through the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA).
Learn more about University of Central Oklahoma’s online MPA program below, as well as out-of-state online MPA programs available to Oklahoma residents.
Schools in Oklahoma with Online MPA Programs
The University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) offers an online MPA program through its Department of Political Science, which is housed within the College of Liberal Arts. Requiring the completion of 36 graduate credit hours of study, the curriculum includes 24 core credit hours and 12 elective credit hours within a declared specialization track. Core coursework builds upon previous academic and/or professional experience, enhancing knowledge in the areas of research, management, policy analysis, leadership, human resources, and more. Online students have the option of concentrating their elective coursework in Public and Nonprofit Management or Urban Management. To earn their degree, students must complete a final capstone project addressing a current issue in the field using knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program. A full-time student enrolled in nine credit hours per semester can complete their degree within two years.
The online MPA program is offered through UCO’s Connected Campus using the learning management system Learn@UCO (D2L). Classes are taught using asynchronous instruction, with students completing assignments independently by preset due dates. Online students have access to resources including the Virtual Career Center, virtual services offered by the Broncho Education and Learning Lab (BELL), and an Online Learner Concierge, a university staff member dedicated to supporting online students.
Additional Online MPA Programs for Residents of Oklahoma
Students interested in exploring MPA specialization options not currently offered by UCO may research out-of-state online MPA programs that accept applications from prospective students residing in Oklahoma. Students interested in attending an out-of-state program should research any potential residency or on-campus requirements prior to applying. While numerous online MPA programs can be completed fully online without the need to relocate or travel, there are select programs that require in-person elements such as mandatory residencies or intensives, on-campus orientations, or networking opportunities. Universities typically have dedicated admissions advisors available to assist graduate applicants with questions regarding degree prerequisites and/or application requirements.
Find a comprehensive listing of online MPA programs available throughout the United States that can be completed with three or fewer campus visits per year on our General Online MPA Programs page.