Four women all hailing from different backgrounds, ended up in the same Master of Public Administration (MPA) Online program due to its academic rigor, flexible options for learning, and the curriculum’s real world applications. As of 2025, Oksana Tsykova, a lawyer; Kristin Tanner, a teacher; Lara Devieux, an investment and asset manager; and Annette Baldwin, a nonprofit ops professional, are proud members of the USC alumni network. Here’s what they had to say about their time in the USC MPA Online program.
Flexibility and academic rigor for the working professional
Working professionals from across private, public, and government sectors are drawn to the MPA online program for its flexibility, academic rigor, and strong reputation. Baldwin was particularly attracted to the online learning option and the chance to learn alongside other mid-career professionals. Tsykova, who transitioned from practicing attorney to administrator, saw the program as a way to build administrative skills and apply them to public policy in order to improve access to legal services. Devieux, with more than two decades in finance, wanted to broaden her horizons and chose USC Price for its academic rigor, ranking, and powerful professional network. Tanner, a long-time educator, was seeking a major career pivot and was motivated by a longstanding passion for public administration and the opportunity to gain a high-quality education while connecting with the USC alumni network and leaders in the field.
The online modality was important because I’m in the Bay Area, a working professional, a parent, and so many other things. The flexibility of attending class at night and coming to campus a few times was appealing to me. The rigor was evident in the online discussions, classes, and interactions with professors. It was all at our pace.
– Oksana Tsykova,
MPA Online ‘25
What is it like interacting with faculty in an online program?
When asked about their professors, all four students described them as deeply invested in their success and highly accessible, both academically and personally. They considered the MPA Online program faculty as knowledgeable experts in their field who set ambitious but realistic expectations. They feel confident their relationship with faculty will last well beyond graduation and continue to influence their careers because the small program size allowed them to get to know faculty closely. Even compared to other rigorous programs like law school, these professors managed to challenge them while still making them feel seen, encouraged, and pushed to reach their full potential in the online environment.
My professors have been outstanding. I have come to know the high but realistic expectations of the students, and the professors provide us with guidance. When questions or issues arise, they are open to providing feedback and taking the time to ensure that each student excels in the coursework.
– Annette Baldwin,
MPA Online ‘25
Master of Public Administration Online
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Find Out MoreIs the USC alumni network as strong as you expected?
Interactions with fellow students were described as one of the most rewarding parts of the program. Cohort-style learning and the online format fostered strong bonds among professionals from diverse sectors, like nonprofit, finance, education, and law. Classmates became a source of academic support, professional inspiration, and genuine friendship as they navigated shared challenges, balancing work, life, and graduate study.
The USC alumni network is part of the larger Trojan Family Network that includes faculty, alumni, students, and staff. The strength of the network reinforced their sense of belonging, as students connected with alumni, executives, and peers across cohorts, particularly during in-person residencies. They singled out the residencies as especially impactful opportunities to deepen relationships, expand networks, see capstone work in action, and experience firsthand how the program has advanced their careers.
USC has an amazing alumni network, and I would receive a great education while networking with some of the best and brightest in the public administration field.
– Kristin Tanner,
MPA Online ‘25
Would you recommend the USC Price online MPA program?
They unanimously agreed that the MPA online program is both demanding and deeply rewarding, offering substantial personal and professional growth. Tanner, Oksana, Baldwin, and Devieux all emphasized that the academic rigor, combined with strong faculty support and a collaborative student cohort and alumni network prepares graduates to step confidently into roles that shape public administration.
It is a great opportunity to grow both professionally and personally. The advice I would give to other students is to take their time in class. Understand the content and connect with the professors by taking advantage of everything they offer, and build connections with students.
– Lara Devieux,
MPA Online ‘25
Their advice to prospective students is clear: Come in with a plan, stay on top of deadlines, and fully engage with every aspect of the program. For those willing to work hard, they believe the program not only imparts critical skills in areas like administration, budgeting, and policy, but also forges a lasting network and sets up public administration professionals for success.
Learn more about the USC Price Master of Public Administration Online.
