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Explore CU Denver Programs
Use the search tool below to discover degree and certificate programs offered by CU Denver. If you are unable to find a program that is right for you, please contact Admissions or a school or college for more information.
Program Overview
The accelerated MPA is a fast-paced, full-time option for students eager to jumpstart their public service careers. Each August, a cohort of students is admitted into this 12-month program to foster a community of scholar-practitioners.
Evelyn LoGiudici
Recruitment & Admissions Senior Professional
Phone:
303-315-0151Drive your passion into change in just one year!
- The accelerated Master of Public Administration (MPA) program prepares you to manage and lead in government and nonprofit organizations.
- Courses are taught by nationally renowned faculty and expert practitioners. Coursework is rooted in research and analytics, ethics and decision-making, and leadership and policy.
- Take advantage of our extensive, global network of alumni and partner organizations and launch your career in public service.
Program Description
Drive your passion into change in just one year!
- The accelerated Master of Public Administration (MPA) program prepares you to manage and lead in government and nonprofit organizations.
- Courses are taught by nationally renowned faculty and expert practitioners. Coursework is rooted in research and analytics, ethics and decision-making, and leadership and policy.
- Take advantage of our extensive, global network of alumni and partner organizations and launch your career in public service.
Why the Accelerated (1-Year) Master of Public Administration at CU Denver?
Competitive Program Cost
Tuition is a flat rate of $25,000 plus approx. $2,200 of student fees, regardless of residency status, providing major savings compared to our peer programs ranked in the Top 30 in the U.S.
Scholarships Available
In addition to our competitive program cost, the School of Public Affairs is excited to offer merit scholarships to those with high academic achievements.
Location in the Heart of Denver
Our Downtown Denver location is on the doorstep of government and nonprofit organizations, with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. Take advantage of the best that this vibrant city and the stunning mountains have to offer!
In-Person Cohort
The program is offered fully in person, in a cohort model. Each year’s cohort of students complete all coursework together and participate in customized activities targeted to your interests. Form lifelong connections with your classmates!
Real-World Applied Project
You’ll gain practical experience through your capstone project, which is a client-based research project synthesizing all the competencies you’ll gain throughout the program.
NASPAA Accreditation
The CU Denver School of Public Affair’ Master of Public Administration program is accredited by NASPAA, the global standard in public service education.
Program Features
#1
top-ranked program in Colorado; #26 in the country* *U.S. News & World Report 2024
1 year
program duration
Fall
starting semester
August 1
application deadline
36-39
number of credits
NASPAA
accreditation
$25000
flat tuition rate + approx. $2,200 student fees
On Campus Housing
available at 20% less cost and approx. $2,200 student fees waived if you lease to live on campus. limited spots available
Student Testimonials
Growing up in a military family, I experienced various educational environments, fueling my passion for equitable education policies. Transitioning from the nonprofit sector to public policy, I sought a program like AMPA to delve into policy shaping. Its diverse faculty enriches our learning with real-world experiences and networks. Our cohort's varied interests, from education to criminal justice and beyond, foster a holistic understanding of public administration. The program's intensity demands focus, yet the support system ensures success. Through AMPA, I've honed analytical and storytelling skills to advocate for meaningful change in K-12 education. My advice: seize networking opportunities, stay curious, and prioritize learning for a fulfilling future in public service.
Kaitlyn Waynick
Accelerated MPA (2024)
I've always been drawn to public service and was able to spend two years in AmeriCorps tackling rural broadband expansion and economic development in Nebraska before coming to CU Denver. The opportunity to acquire an MPA in one year was irresistible and the accelerated MPA's cost-effectiveness combined with CU Denver's reputation were compelling factors for me to get started. The program equips me with vital skills for effective public service and the exceptional faculty enrich both classroom and extracurricular learning, offering diverse perspectives and valuable skills. The program’s cohort model fosters collaboration, enhancing our collective strengths. Despite the program's intensity, the academic rigor prepares us for the workforce. Upon completion, I aim to leverage the invaluable skills gained in the AMPA program in economic development and rural broadband expansion.
Oliver Borchers-Williams
Accelerated MPA (2024)Alumni Success Stories
"The Accelerated MPA program prepared me to serve as a fearless organizational leader in my role as waste diversion specialist for the Auraria Sustainable Campus Program. I built the confidence to lead and manage programs, take on data and budgetary projects, and work collaboratively with a variety of state and campus stakeholders."
Amanda Dian
Accelerated MPA Program
(2023)
Assistant Waste Diversion Specialist, Auraria Sustainable Campus Programs
“The AMPA program is special because of the condensed and convenient timeline of the program to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to further establish yourself as a professional in the public sector in under a year. The cohort model of the program lends itself to public sector work, as you work with the same team of people on various projects and assignments and have to navigate the relationship-building and team management skills needed to succeed in a professional setting.”
Alex Roche
Accelerated MPA Program
(2023)
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