Students are not required to choose a concentration area, but those who do must complete at least nine credit hours from the list of elective courses provided for that area. These electives are designed to provide the depth of material needed to gain specialized knowledge and skills. Students may also pursue a professional work experience (PWE) that ties into their particular concentration. 

Concentration areas give students the ability to tailor the UNC MPA experience to a specific discipline within public administration.

Local Government 

(on-campus and online)

UNC MPA ranks second in the nation in the specialty area of local government. Working with faculty who consult daily with local government officials at all levels, students will acquire skills and strategies for building strong, sustainable local communities and making a meaningful difference in residents’ lives. 

Local Government

Mobile Background

Nonprofit Management

(on-campus and online)

Students will gain deeper insight into the unique challenges and characteristics of nonprofit organizations and will develop competencies that are critical to a successful career in nonprofit leadership. 

Nonprofit Management

Mobile Background

Public Management 

(on-campus and online)

Students will gain a foundation in the organizational structures, managerial practices, and institutionalized values through which officials enact the work of public organizations.  

Public Management

Mobile Background

Community and Economic Development 

(on-campus only)

Students will gain the insights and leadership skills needed to drive transformative change within urban and rural communities. 

Community & Economic Development

Mobile Background

Public Policy

(on-campus only)

Students have the option of seeking a graduate minor through the UNC Department of Public Policy. The purpose of the graduate minor is to allow students in related areas of study, such as public administration, to gain a deeper understanding of theoretical and analytical approaches to address policy challenges. 

Public Policy

Mobile Background