MPA Course-based (Online)

The MPA Course-based (Online) option focuses on the topics of governance, policy, management, research, economics, finance, human resources and communications. Throughout the program, you will develop professional writing and research skills. You can complete the MPA Course-based (Online) option from home while meeting your professional and personal responsibilities. You will put your new-found knowledge and expertise to practice immediately in your own work environment.

This program starts in September and courses are offered year-round. By completing two courses per term, the MPA can be completed in under two years. The degree consists of 15 units: 10-1.5 unit courses, including 8 required and 2 elective courses.

Courses in the Course-based (Online) option are offered year-round on a cyclical basis. Students must follow the program as listed in the calendar. Normally, students in the Course-based option may not take more than two courses per term. Any exceptions must be approved by the Graduate Adviser.

• Core Courses
  • ADMN 502A, 504, 507, 509 or other specified course*, 512, 531, 550, 556

• Elective Courses: two from (space permitting)
  • ADMN 502B, 523, 537, 544, 547, 548, 553, 554, 577, 578, 580, 581, 582
  • Courses from other School of Public Administration offerings:
    • MADR (DR) or MACD (CD) courses (first preference is given to students in those programs)
    • or from other academic programs: with permission of the instructor of those courses and the School Graduate Adviser.
  • 400-level undergraduate courses (ADMN) offered by the School of Public Administration, including:
    • ADMN 407, 409, 411, 422, 423, 431B, 437, 445, 446, 452, 470 (with appropriate topic), 477 

* based on a review of students' prior academic history by the Graduate Adviser, the student may be able to substitute an alternate course if prior academic work covers the content of a given core course.

Program Length

Course-based Option Term 1 (Sep-Dec)

• ADMN 504 (1.5) Government and Governance
• ADMN 507 (1.5) Leadership and Ethics in the Public Sector

Note: Term 1 courses may include a pre-course assignment.

Course-based Option Term 2 (Jan-Apr)

• ADMN 502A (1.5)  Research Methods for Policy and Practice
• Approved elective (1.5)

Course-based Option Term 3 (May-Aug)

• ADMN 509 (1.5) Economics for Policy Analysis
• ADMN 550 (1.5) Strategic Communication and Engagement

Course-based Option Term 4 (Sep-Dec)

• ADMN 512 (1.5) Public Financial Management and Accountability
• Approved elective (1.5)

Course-based Option Term 5 (Jan-Apr)

• ADMN 531 (1.5) Performance and Strategic Human Resource Management
• ADMN 556 (1.5) Managing Public Policy

A student registered in the MPA program may choose to complete concurrently the Graduate Certificate in Evaluation. Two elective courses can be credited toward the credential requirements of both the MPA and the Certificate program, provided that they are appropriate for the Certificate program. Courses for the Certificate should be taken in an appropriate sequence and are credited as electives for the degree program and core credit for the Certificate program. Please note: Taking the concurrent MPA and Graduate Certificate in Evaluation programs may extend the time of degree completion which also may result in additional fees per term to complete all requirements. Please contact paservice1@uvic.ca if you have questions regarding the concurrent program.