Master of Public Administration
Accomplish your professional ambitions, live your purpose, and earn your Master of Public Administration online at California Baptist University.
The most recognized degree in the public service field, a Master of Public Administration (MPA) increases not only your value within an organization, but the value you bring to society as a whole. An MPA from California Baptist University prepares leaders in local, state and federal government agencies, as well as non-profit organizations in the quest to better serve the diverse needs of society. An MPA prepares you to become an effective leader, equipped with the practical knowledge and skills to affect positive change.
- Online or Hybrid options
- Accelerated - Three Semesters per year - Finish Your Degree in 16 Months
- A Terminal Degree in the Public Service Field
- Flexible - Complete Coursework Around Your Schedule
-
Financial Assistance Available if You Qualify

Program Director, Elaine Ahumada D.P.A.
Interdisciplinary Approach
Uniquely interdisciplinary, CBU’s MPA program balances core competencies critical to becoming a successful leader, with a worldview designed to broaden your perspective of public service. Covering the key areas of finance, leadership, technology, public policy and political processes, MPA courses also develop essential skills in critical thinking, decision making, team development and human resource management. MPA graduates come away from the program with a thorough grasp of the history and theory of public administration, as well as the ability to put those theories into practice to improve operations in the organizations they serve and shape.
Ethical Leaders
While providing the intellectual tools you need to achieve your career goals, CBU’s MPA program also imparts ethical values key to serving the public good. Integrating the university’s faith-based education philosophy, the MPA program develops accountable leaders who understand the importance of maintaining legitimacy, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of organizations and what it means to equitably and fairly serve the public. Emphasizing ethical professional qualities such as integrity, accountability, honesty and faith, MPA courses encourage students to consider the ethical impact of their organizations’ policies and their own actions. As a result, MPA graduates become a positive force not only within their profession, but within their communities.

Designed For Working Professionals
CBU’s MPA program is uniquely designed for working professionals looking to advance their skills and leadership qualities, as well as careers. The MPA is an accelerated program with evening classes that meet once a week for eight weeks, which allows students the opportunity to graduate in just 16 months if attending fulltime.
The Classroom Experience
With small, interactive classes, MPA students receive individual attention from dedicated instructors while also learning from the diverse experiences and perspectives of fellow scholars. This intimate environment encourages students to develop interpersonal and team-building skills, while also developing networks and supportive relationships. Emphasizing experiential learning through practical application of theory, MPA coursework incorporates hands-on assignments based on real-world scenarios.
Learn From Leaders
Mentors as well as instructors, MPA professors work closely with candidates from the first day of class through graduation. Expect your professors to challenge you, inspire you, and, most importantly, support your success.
Take The Next Step
To learn more about the MPA program and how to apply, please attend an upcoming Online & Professional Studies Information Session. If you’re ready to advance your knowledge, skills and career, start by applying online. We look forward to helping you reach your professional and personal goals.
- A Bachelor’s degree
- Official sealed transcripts
- 3 recommendations - Recommedation Form
- Current Resume
-
500 word essay covering these areas:
Purpose for entering the program
Long-term professional goals
Reasons for choosing to study at CBU -
Prerequisites: There are no prerequisite courses; however, applicants should posses one of the following:
A baccalaureate degree that demonstrates strong undergraduate preparation in common curriculum requirements including courses in public administration, organizational theory, or public policy
A baccalaureate degree in any discipline supplemented with a minimum of five years managerial experience in either the public or private sector - Minimum GPA of 2.75. GRE not required for applicants with a GPA of 2.75 or higher
- Approximately 36 units to graduate
- Per unit cost is $516
- Financial assistance is available
- The first step is to fill-out the FAFSA at www.fafsa.ed.gov
- CBU’s FAFSA School Code: 001125
Program Requirements
Master of Public Administration Major Program (36 units)
Financial Aid Assistance Scenarios
Scenario 1 – Veteran’s Benefit Recipient
Full Time 9 units: fall, spring, summer
Veteran’s Benefits – Post 9/11 GI Bill &
CBU Yellow Ribbon Program
| $14,403 | Cost Estimate Per Year* (Tuition/Fees) |
| - $14,403 | GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon Benefits |
| $0 |
Scenario 2 – Tuition Reimbursement and Loan Recipient
Full Time 9 units: fall, spring, summer
Tuition Reimbursement and Loan Recipient
| $14,403 | Cost Estimate Per Year* (Tuition/Fees) |
|
|
|
| Financial Aid Assistance Options | |
| $2,500 | Employer Tuition Reimbursement** |
Scenario 3 – Loan Recipient
Full Time 9 units: fall, spring, summer
Stafford Loan Recipient-Subsidized and Unsubsidized
| $14,403 | Cost Estimate Per Year* (Tuition/Fees) |
|
|
|
| Financial Aid Assistance Options | |
| $14,403 | Subsidized & Unsubsidized Stafford Loan*** |
* tuition costs based on cost per unit
** must be eligible to qualify
*** based on eligibility (assumes graduate level)
Financial Aid Assistance Scenarios
Scenario 1 – Veteran’s Benefit Recipient
Full Time 6 units: fall, spring, summer
Veteran’s Benefits – Post 9/11 GI Bill &
CBU Yellow Ribbon Program
| $9,777 | Cost Estimate Per Year* (Tuition/Fees) |
| - $9,777 | GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon Benefits |
| $0 |
Scenario 2 – Scholarship and Loan Recipient
Full Time 6 units: fall, spring, summer
Scholarship and Loan Recipient
| $9,777 | Cost Estimate Per Year* (Tuition/Fees) |
|
|
|
| Financial Aid Assistance Options | |
| $2,500 | Disablity Scholarship** |
Scenario 3 – Loan Recipient
Full Time 6 units: fall, spring, summer
Stafford Loan Recipient-Subsidized and Unsubsidized
| $9,777 | Cost Estimate Per Year* (Tuition/Fees) |
|
|
|
| Financial Aid Assistance Options | |
| $9,777 | Subsidized & Unsubsidized Stafford Loan*** |
* tuition costs based on cost per unit
** must be eligible to qualify
*** based on eligibility (assumes graduate level)
Financial Aid Assistance Scenarios
Scenario 1 – Veteran’s Benefit Recipient
Full Time 12 units: fall, spring, summer
Veteran’s Benefits – Post 9/11 GI Bill &
CBU Yellow Ribbon Program
| $17,949 | Cost Estimate Per Year* (Tuition/Fees) |
| - $17,949 | GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon Benefits |
| $0 |
Scenario 2 – Grant and Loan Recipient
Full Time 12 units: fall, spring, summer
Pell, Cal Grant & Stafford Loan Recipient
| $17,949 | Cost Estimate Per Year* (Tuition/Fees) |
|
|
|
| Financial Aid Assistance Options | |
| $5,550 | Pell Grant (maximum estimate)** |
| $9,708 | Cal Grant A (maximum estimate)** |
| $5,500 | Stafford Loan*** |
Scenario 3 – Loan Recipient
Full Time 12 units: fall, spring, summer
Stafford Loan Recipient-Subsidized and Unsubsidized
| $17,949 | Cost Estimate Per Year* (Tuition/Fees) |
|
|
|
| Financial Aid Assistance Options | |
| $18,750 | Subsidized & Unsubsidized Stafford Loan*** |
* tuition costs based on cost per unit
** must be eligible to qualify
*** based on eligibility (assumes Independent Student, Junior grade level)








