The Master of Public Administration Program

at California State University Fullerton


We are the original public administration program in Orange County, educating professionals since 1968. The program has approximately 120 students and builds upon students' experiences and interests in American government and public policy at the local, state or federal level, and in the nonprofit sector. With more than four decades in Orange County, we have strong relationships with local governments and agencies in and around Southern California which employ many of our graduates. Alumni include city managers in at least six Orange County cities, leaders in many others cities, and managers in public and nonprofit agencies across the region.

 

Our Mission

 

To prepare our students for a career in public service by providing a core set of competencies anchored in the foundations of scholarly research and professional practice. Our students develop knowledge, skills, and public service values that equip them to be ethical and exceptional leaders in their communities who act with a commitment to public service, democratic values, accountability, social equity, and diversity.

 

PLEASE VISIT THE ADMISSIONS PAGE TO SEE HOW TO APPLYOpens in new window
 
Spring 2025 Deadline is November 15, 2024

NASPAA Banner Logo

Questions? Send us an email           

 

Alan Saltzstein Excellence Scholarship

The Saltzstein Scholarship is awarded in fall and spring semesters to an MPA student who has completed the first year (6-12 units) of the MPA program.  This scholarship is designed to recognize, reward, and encourage our top students as they progress through the MPA. If you'd like to donate to this scholarship, please click here:

Alan Saltzstein Excellence Scholarship Fund

 

 

City Management Fellowship Program

The MPA is proud to head into Year VIII of the CMFP program that pairs outstanding MPA students with Orange County city managers for an academic year.  The CMFP is an innovative and collaborative partnership between the MPA program and the Orange County City Manager's Association. The program provides professional, academic and financial support to four exceptional MPA students who demonstrate a commitment to public service and desire a career in city management. The Fellowship is designed to cultivate key competencies needed for successful leadership at the highest levels of local government management, and will complement the academic coursework of the MPA program with practical skill building, mentorship, and networking opportunities within the Orange County region. The program has financial support from C.J. Segerstrom & Sons, the Orange County City Managers Association, and generous individual donors. If you'd like to donate to this program, please click here: City Management Fellowship Program Fund