Our Graduate Programs

The Hobby School of Public Affairs offers two graduate programs of study, four graduate dual degree programs, seven graduate certificates in public policy and six accelerated pathway program opportunities for undergraduates.

Real-world Impact

An advanced degree from the Hobby School prepares a new generation of leaders to face tomorrow’s most pressing challenges through interdisciplinary coursework, training in ethics and leadership and experiential learning opportunities. Hobby School graduate students have a common goal of making a difference in their communities and will develop fundamental tools and skills transferable across a range of fields.

Master of Public Administration

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at the Hobby School of Public Affairs is a 36-hour program designed to advance the careers of professionals seeking to improve their communities through public service. The MPA program prepares graduates to lead organizations, manage complex projects and serve the public through innovation, collaboration and strategy. The comprehensive curriculum is designed for those looking to enhance their management skills and take on leadership roles in the public sector.

The Master of Public Administration program consists of a core curriculum, a capstone project and electives chosen from the broader University of Houston classes to fulfill a specialization in respective fields of interest.

Alumni Careers

MPA graduates have served in elected office, shaping the direction and future of our region. They are at higher education institutions in our state. They are leaders in the veteran services field working collaboratively within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to support service members, veterans and their families. From policy analysts to emergency management professionals, MPA alumni are in impactful roles across the country.

Alumni Spotlight

John W. Boerstler, Master of Public Administration, '13
Chief Veterans Experience Officer
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

“One of the greatest lessons I learned in the program is applying theory to practice as a government and nonprofit executive. For example, when we learned about building advocacy coalitions and policy networks, I used those lessons to construct a new collective impact model called ‘Combined Arms’ that united Texas's highly fragmented military and veteran service sector. Today, Combined Arms is funded by the Texas Workforce Commission as a nonprofit connecting tens of thousands of veterans and military families to social service organizations across the state.”

Master of Public Administration Mission Statement

A Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the Hobby School of Public Affairs at the University of Houston prepares graduates for leadership, managerial, and administrative careers in public service professions. The program provides education and training in the knowledge, skills, mindsets, and abilities necessary to address complex societal challenges and lead organizations innovatively and ethically into the future. The MPA curriculum delves into important administrative and managerial issues critical to decision making and policy implementation in public service organizations. Students engage in coursework, case studies, and collaborations with individuals committed to public service to gain experience in identifying problems and developing solutions. They will demonstrate integrity, cross-disciplinary competence, strong communication skills, and a commitment to public service values, democratic principles, and a well-functioning society.

The Master of Public Administration program at the University of Houston was approved by the State of Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board nearly 50 years ago and has graduated more than 400 master’s degree students since its first inaugural class. The Hobby School of Public Affairs is a full member of the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA). The Hobby School also maintains a Pi Alpha Alpha chapter, the global honors society for public affairs and administration.