The LMU Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree is a fully online graduate degree proram designed for those who wish to pursue leadership roles in the ever-expanding field of public service. Earning a master's degree in public administration opens the doors to a wide range of public service careers, including government administration, community or nonprofit management, and government relations.
This thirty (30) credit hour program provides tracks in General Public Administration, Nonprofit Management, and Health Care Policy. MPA graduates may work in government agencies creating policy, overseeing agencies, or analyzing and evaluating program efficiency and effectiveness. Those who work in community agencies may work for social welfare organizations or large healthcare organizations such as hospital systems, managing budgets, or analyzing efficiencies. In the private sector, MPA graduates hold consulting positions or work to assist companies in understanding policymaking and management strategies.
Program offerings are flexible and useful for working adults, with several electives offered in a hybrid or online format.
Students choosing to do so can complete the MPA program in as little as sixteen (16) months.
Track 1: General Public Administration
30 Credit Hours + Comprehensive Exam
The General Public Administration track is designed to provide public service professionals with the core proficiencies in the management and leadership of public organizations. Course offerings cover a wide range of general public administration topics, as well as specialized substantive areas such as healthcare policy, special topics in education, and human resource issues.
Track 2: Nonprofit Management
30 Credit Hours + Comprehensive Exam
The Nonprofit Management track allows students to focus on the development and growth of nonprofit organizations. Course offerings cover foundational topics such as nonprofit management, board development, fundraising, and marketing. Through academic sources, such as books and journal articles, to practical sources, such as blog posts and guest speakers, students will gain the skills necessary to lead organizations that address the needs of underserved communities.
Track 3 Health Care Policy
30 Credit Hours + Comprehensive Exam
The Health Care Policy track is built for students with a specific interest in health care related policymaking and advocacy. Course offerings include instruction in major health care legislation, rules, and regulations, as well as providing guidance in the history and purposes of the agencies and institutions of health care administration in the public, private, and nonprofit sector.
Other: LMU Healthcare Policy Graduate Certificate
The Healthcare Policy Graduate Certificate (HCPGC) program at Lincoln Memorial University offers a comprehensive and focused exploration of the dynamic landscape of healthcare policy. Designed for professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of critical healthcare policy issues, this program covers topics such as healthcare reform, equity, global health, financing, technology, and workforce, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills to drive meaningful change in healthcare systems and contribute to informed policy decision-making. Through rigorous coursework and practical applications, participants will develop expertise that is essential for navigating the complex challenges and opportunities within the realm of healthcare policy.
To complete the LMU HCPGC, students must complete four MPA courses (12 Credit Hours) from among the following healthcare policy course options:
· PADM 591 Health Care Policy
· PADM 592 Strategic Communication in Health Care
· PADM 593 Directing Healthcare Organizations
· PADM 594 Fiscal Impact of Healthcare Policy
· PADM 599 Special Topics in Healthcare Policy
Students that complete the HCPGC may choose to use all twelve credit hours toward completion of the LMU Master of Public Administration (MPA) graduate program.
Required Courses
Elective Courses
Previous offerings of PADM 620 Special Topics in Public Policy
To inquire about the LMU MPA program, please contact:
Dr. Heather Roberson | 865.531.4146 | heather.roberson@lmunet.edu
