Our applicants come from a variety of diverse backgrounds and interest areas and encompass all areas of academic study.
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.
The UNC MPA program encourages applications from anyone passionate about public service leadership.
January 1st
TBD
Please note the deadlines included below are for your application to be submitted.
May 1st
May 13th
Applications for the online format of the UNC MPA program are accepted year-round, and there are two start terms per year (Fall and Spring) allowing students to start at a time convenient for them.
October 1st
October 14th
May 1st
May 13th
The online and on-campus formats require submission of the same application materials.
In one to two pages, respond to the question, “Why do you want to earn an MPA and why from UNC-Chapel Hill?”
In your statement, please address the following:
*The UNC MPA program stands by our commitment to holistic admissions and to recruiting a class which demonstrates 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 in their application 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 a 3.3, but any candidate is welcome to submit official exam scores for consideration by the admissions committee.
Each applicant is unique, but most admitted students meet these criteria:
The admission standards described above are individual data points used in the review and, therefore, are not absolute minimums. If your academic record falls below these standards, you are encouraged to submit an addendum for explanation in your application, or reach out to our admissions director to discuss your application.
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