The MPA program is offered at our Main Campus in Bakersfield, California (Modality is primarily In-Person)
MPA Zoom Information Sessions
Fall 2026 Applications Are Now Open! Deadline to Apply is June 30, 2026!
Ready to apply? Click Here
Cal State Online Graduate Application Guide
| Date | Time | Zoom |
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| TBA | TBA | Zoom Link TBA |
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Fall 2026 MPA Admission Decision Timelines:
| Completed Application by: | Program Admission Decision by: |
|---|---|
| March 31, 2026 | April 30, 2026 |
| April 28, 2026 | May 28, 2026 |
| June 3, 2026 | July 3, 2026 |
| June 30, 2026 (deadline) | August 1, 2026 |
MPA Contact Information
About
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program will foster and enhance critical thinking, communication, management, a public service perspective, and engagement in the policy process among present and future managers in government, nonprofit, and health care organizations within the San Joaquin Valley. The critical skills learned from this curriculum will ensure that managers in the government, nonprofit, and health care sectors exercise governance in an inclusive and socially responsible manner.
NASPAA Accreditation
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program enjoys accreditation by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) for its Master of Public Administration program.
CSU Bakersfield’s College of Business and Public Administration (BPA) is proud to announce the Extension of Accreditation for the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program through the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) in June 2017 for the period of six years. The MPA program pursued and achieved accreditation through a rigorous peer review that demonstrated the program’s commitment to quality public service education.
This means that the educational experience and course content you receive from us will be comparable to that offered at other NASPAA accredited programs. Such national acknowledgment provides “an edge” for our students in both the local and national job markets.
Career Opportunities
The mission of the MPA graduate program is career preparation and development for policy & decision-making, managerial, and administrative positions in the public and nonprofit sectors. The program is especially responsive to regional government and nonprofit sector needs, preparing graduates for state and local managerial and public service leadership. MPA graduates go on to management and leadership roles in:
- Nonprofit organizations
- Professional associations
- Local government
- State government
- Federal government
- Legislative services
- Colleges and universities
- Consulting firms
- Healthcare facilities
- Public action committees
- Public interest groups
- Private industry
Click here for more information about NASPAA