In West Virginia, two universities currently offer an online Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree program. Through the programs at American Public University and Marshall University students may elect to concentrate their online MPA degree in one of the following areas: Disaster Management, Environmental Policy, Human Resources, Security Management, Organizational Management, Health Policy, National Security, Coaching and Conflict Resolution, Urban Administration, Nonprofit Management, or Public Policy. Both programs can be completed fully online with no in-person or on-campus requirements.
American Public University and Marshall University are both accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Learn more about each of their programs below.
Schools in West Virginia with Online MPA Programs
American Public University (APU) offers an online Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree program through its School of Security and Global Studies. Designed for in-service professionals currently employed in the areas of public management or service, collaborative coursework blends administrative theory and modern policy-making processes, utilizing case studies, real-world scenarios, and group discussions to enhance analytical, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills. The program requires the completion of 36 graduate credit hours of study, including 18 core credit hours, six “Major” credit hours, nine concentration credit hours, and a final capstone project. Students must choose elective coursework concentrated in one of the following areas of study: Disaster Management, Environmental Policy, Human Resources, Security Management, Organizational Management, Health Policy, National Security, Coaching and Conflict Resolution, or Public Policy.
APU’s online MPA degree can be completed fully online without in-person or residency requirements. Courses are taught in eight- or 16-week formats using asynchronous instruction. Students are expected to access lectures, course materials, and engage in discussion forums at times that aligns with their schedule using the eLearning platform Brightspace. In lieu of traditional academic semesters, classes begin monthly and students enrolled full-time can earn their degree in about two years. APU’s career services, including resume review, career coaching, career fairs, and mock interviews, are available virtually to online students and alumni.
Marshall University’s Department of Political Science offers an online MPA program with concentrations in Urban Administration and Nonprofit Management. The interdisciplinary curriculum requires the completion of 36 graduate credit hours of study, including 30 core credit hours and six concentration credit hours. The program focuses on honing leadership and critical-thinking skills, with coursework covering topics such as the development, implementation, and analysis of policy; budget management; data collection and analysis; and leadership in public service. All students are required to complete a Seminar in Public Administration and submit a portfolio to the MPA Governing Advisory Committee during their final semester of study. Students enrolled full-time can earn their degree in two years.
Marshall utilizes the learning management system Blackboard to conduct its online MPA program. Courses are taught using asynchronous instruction. Students are able to access course materials, engage in peer and faculty discussions, and complete assignments on their own time, assuming they adhere to any deadlines set in course syllabi. Online students are supported virtually by numerous university services including academic advising, tutoring, and library resources. Career services such as resume development, mock interviews, and networking opportunities are available to students and alumni. Marshall University has also partnered with several research centers and institutes to provide collaborative opportunities for both campus-based and online MPA students .