MPA Students

Students from a diverse range of backgrounds and interests are drawn to the USC Price Master of Public Administration program. Many enter immediately upon completing their undergraduate degree, while others will have achieved significant positions in public management prior to enrolling.

While most MPA students hold bachelor’s degrees in the social sciences, students with an undergraduate degree in any academic field are eligible for admission and encouraged to apply.

Faculty, employers and program advisors often remark on the characteristics typical to a Price School MPA candidate:

• demonstrated leadership in academic and community endeavors
• strong analytical and writing skills
• an active curiosity and an open mind
• enthusiasm for collaboration
• empathy, resilience, and the desire to create positive impact on society