The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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We are seeking individuals who have a passion for public service and the desire to be a leader.

Whether you are just getting started or seeking to advance your career, a Master of Public Administration from UNC-Chapel Hill provides the skills and tools necessary to reach your goals.

One Program, Two Formats.

There are two convenient ways to earn your MPA from UNC-Chapel Hill. We offer a full-time two-year format for on-campus students, while the online format is available for full- or part-time students with evening classes. Scholarships are available to both on-campus and online students.

Applications Deadlines

On Campus

One start time per year: Fall

fall

Priority Deadline TBD

Final Deadline TBD

Online

Two start times per year: Fall (mid-August) and Spring (early January)

spring

Priority Deadline TBD

Final Deadline TBD

fall

Priority Deadline TBD

Final Deadline TBD

Start your application now

What does UNC-CH MPA look for in candidates?

Our Admissions Committee uses a holistic approach when reviewing applications and considers all aspects of the application when determining candidacy. We seek to admit applicants who demonstrate a likelihood of academic success and a strong interest and fit for pursuing a career in public service leadership. Prior public service experience is not required. Each applicant is unique, but most admitted students meet these criteria:

  • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • Undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0
  • Recommendation letters that are specific to you and applicable to this program
  • Experiences that have contributed to your pursuit of this field and program
  • Writing skills that demonstrate the ability to think critically and communicate clearly
Learn How to Apply

The UNC MPA program stands by our commitment to holistic admissions and recruiting a class demonstrating academic success, dedication to public service, and diversity. We encourage any students who believe their application materials do not fully reflect their academic potential to include an official graduate entrance exam (GRE, LSAT, and GMAT) score within the last 5 years. This is particularly recommended for students with cumulative GPAs below 3.3 or students whose transcripts are not from an accredited public or nonprofit institution.

Recent Blog Posts

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May 26, 2026

This is Us! Meet UNC MPA Recent Graduates

At the May 2026 commencement, we had the chance to reconnect with four recent graduates of the UNC…

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  • Alumni
  • Students
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April 14, 2026

How One Conversation Sparked Opportunity for Noah Ellington

By Hattie Lecka When MPA student Noah Ellington attended an alumni event in January,…

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  • At the SOG
  • Students
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March 24, 2026

Investing in Future Public Leaders: The Power of MPA Program Support 

Thanks to the generosity of our alumni and friends, UNC MPA students are able…

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  • Scholarships
  • Students

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