Length of Degree and Completion Rates
Most students pursue the MPA program as full-time students and complete the program in two-three years. Students may also enroll in the MPA program as part time and may complete the program in three-five years. The time limit for completing a master’s degree at USC is five years.
Students who enter the MPA program have a high completion rate. Of the students who have started over the past seven years, 66% complete the program within two years, 86% within three years, and 94% within five years. The program’s retention rate is over 95%.
| MPA | # Entering | % Graduate within 2 years | % Graduate within 3 years | % Graduate within 5 years | % Retention (Graduated or Still Enrolled) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2005-06 | 88 | 67% | 83% | 91% | 91% |
| 2006-07 | 81 | 62% | 88% | 95% | 96% |
| 2007-08 | 79 | 70% | 89% | 95% | 99% |
| 2008-09 | 90 | 66% | 82% | 94% | |
| 2009-10 | 117 | 68% | 86% | 94% | |
| 2010-11 | 104 | 60% | 95% | ||
| 2011-12 | 208 | 97% |