Johnson & Wales University (JWU) is presently the only academic institution in Rhode Island that offers an online Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree program. Taking a multifaceted approach to the enhancement of management and leadership skills, the online MPA curriculum at JWU connects theory, policy, and practice. The program can be completed fully online, without residential or in-person requirements. JWU is a private university regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
Learn more about Johnson & Wales University’s online MPA program below and find information regarding additional options for residents of Rhode Island including out-of-state online MPA programs.
Schools in Rhode Island with Online MPA Programs
Johnson & Wales University (JWU) offers an online MPA program through its College of Professional Studies. The curriculum requires the completion of 36 graduate credit hours of study, including 24 core course credits and 12 elective course credits. Online students can concentrate their studies in one of the following areas: General Public Administration, Criminal Justice, Homeland Security, Human Resource Management, or Nonprofit Management. Coursework utilizes experiential learning assignments, focusing on a myriad of topics including personnel management, policy analysis, diversity, and ethical governance. Classes are conducted in eight-week-long terms, and students enrolled full-time can fulfill degree requirements in two years.
JWU conducts its online MPA program via ulearn, a learning management system supported by Blackboard. Courses are taught using asynchronous instruction, enabling students to access course materials and assignments at an individualized pace. Online students gain virtual access to several university resources including library services, tutoring, career services, and a dedicated academic advisor.
Additional Online MPA Programs for Residents of Rhode Island
Students interested in pursuing an online MPA with a specialization not offered by JWU may want to explore out-of-state online MPA programs that accept Rhode Island residents. Many online MPA programs can be completed without on-campus, residential, or travel requirements, although a limited number of programs do include mandatory in-person components. While many schools charge different tuition rates for in-state versus out-of-state students, some online MPA programs charge the same rate for online students, regardless of their state of residence. Therefore, prospective students should research all degree requirements and tuition costs carefully prior to completing their application. Many schools have dedicated admissions advisors available to assist graduate applicants who have questions or need help submitting an application.
Our General Online MPA Programs page offers a comprehensive listing of online MPA programs that can be completed fully online, with limited or no residential requirements.