Seton Hall’s Master of Public Administration Program Introduces 36-Credit Format, Accelerated Pathway

Beginning in Fall 2025, Seton Hall University’s Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) program will transition from a 39-credit to a 36-credit curriculum, offering students a quicker timeline to degree completion and an accelerated path that can be completed in as little as one year.

An Intentional Update for Tomorrow’s Leaders
The revised program structure reduces the elective requirement from two courses to one, while preserving the core components of the program: 18 credits of foundational coursework, 12 credits in a chosen concentration, and a 3-credit capstone project.

“Today’s students are balancing work, family and their professional growth, among many other everyday priorities. We started by asking, ‘What would help our students lead with purpose?’,” said Program Director and Faculty Associate La’Tesha Sampson, Ph.D. “This small adjustment helps us respond directly to what students need, while helping them to achieve their professional goals at a quicker, yet cost-effective and balanced pace.”

While the program requires fewer elective credits, students will continue to benefit from the wide range of electives offered — like Public Service Leadership, Grant Writing and Nonprofit Fundraising — allowing them to deepen their knowledge in areas of their choosing.

Graduate in One Year. Or, Follow a Steady, Part-Time Pace
Full-time students will now have the option to complete the program in a new, three-semester path, offering more control over how and when they complete their graduate work. The accelerated timeline is completed over one academic year — with courses taken over three consecutive semesters (i.e., fall, spring and summer). 

Meanwhile, part-time students can pursue a steady two-year sequence by enrolling in two courses over six consecutive terms. Students will be able to more easily match their studies to their professional plans, whether they prefer to graduate quickly or follow a more traditional pace.

“Our students want to step into leadership and public service roles confident and ready to make the world a better place. Flexibility and understanding the lived realities of our community members are among the many core values of our program,” said Jonathan Farina, Ph.D., dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

“A more accessible and adaptable program allows us to meet our students where they are, regardless if they are ready to earn their degree quickly or take their time,” added Farina. 

About the Master of Public Administration Program
Seton Hall’s M.P.A. program is nationally accredited by NASPPA, the global standard in public service education. Consistently recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the best programs for Nonprofit Management in the country, it offers students a supportive environment to develop as compassionate, effective leaders across government, nonprofit and public sectors. 

The curriculum combines rigorous academics with hands-on capstone projects that connect students to real-world community challenges. Expert faculty and a strong professional network help prepare graduates with the skills and experience to drive positive change for the public good.

Concentration options are available in Data Visualization and Analytics, Health Policy and Management, Nonprofit Organization Management, or Public Service: Leadership, Governance and Policy. Several dual-degree options are also offered, allowing undergraduate students to pair an undergraduate degree in 10 complimentary fields with an M.P.A. degree. 

The capstone experience is a cornerstone of the program, allowing students to partner with a faculty member to both design and carry out a project or internship with a government agency or nonprofit partner.

Ready to Take the Next Step?
To learn more about the program, please visit Master of Public Administration or contact Associate Dean Michael Dooney at [email protected].

Categories: Education