The UNC-CH MPA program seeks individuals with a passion for public service and the desire to be a leader.
Our applicants come from a variety of diverse backgrounds and interest areas and encompass all areas of academic study.
If you truly want to be a public servant and make a positive change, an MPA will give you the know-how to lead not just effectively, but ethically and equitably too.
The MPA program at UNC-CH offers one program in two formats: a full-time two-year format held on campus and an online format available for full- or part-time students.
The on-campus MPA experience is a full-time program that starts in the Fall. It is 45 credit hours that students typically complete in two years (three years for a dual degree). You will meet on campus in person as a cohort. Most class schedules are Monday through Thursday during the day.
The online MPA format was designed for working professionals. It offers evening classes and the option of pursuing the degree part-time or full-time. Students typically take two courses per semester, and each class requires 90 minutes of on-camera class time once per week with the rest of your classmates and instructor.
One start time per year: Fall only
Fall 2026
Priority Deadline January 1, 2026
Final Deadline January 13, 2026
Two start times per year: Fall and Spring
Spring 2026
Priority Deadline November 1, 2025
Final Deadline November 11, 2025
Fall 2026
Priority Deadline May 1, 2026
Final Deadline May 12, 2026
Here are the application materials required to be considered for admission. The online and on-campus formats require submission of the same application materials.
(including $95 application fee)
Application fee waiver requests are available for select applicants. For more information, visit the UNC Graduate School Application Fee Waiver page. Fee waivers are sometimes granted for attending one of our admissions events.
In one to two pages, respond to the question, “Why do you want to earn an MPA from UNC-Chapel Hill?” In your statement, address the following:
An unofficial transcript from each college or university attended is required to be uploaded to the application. Official transcripts are not required until after admission and enrollment.
International students should submit an ECE or WES evaluation of their international transcripts to determine the U.S. degree equivalency and grade point average.
Recommendation letters should come from individuals familiar with your academic and professional achievements and should address your potential for success in this particular academic setting.
Applicants who have graduated with a degree in the last five years are strongly encouraged to have at least one academic reference.
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). Scores must be less than five years old. 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.
Send your official score report to Institution Code #5816.
For more information, visit the UNC Graduate School website for international student admissions.
After a preliminary screening of applications, the UNC-Chapel Hill MPA Admissions Committee will contact selected candidates to schedule an interview. Candidate interviews are held via Zoom.
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