CU Denver student writing and working on laptop

100% Online MPA

As the #1 public affairs program in Colorado, students find a transformative journey into public service leadership through CU Denver’s Master of Public Administration (MPA).

Program at a Glance

Discover a curriculum designed by policy experts and experienced faculty, aligned with current public policy trends. Core courses delve into topics such as policy design, implementation, analysis, and advocacy, while focusing on the intersection and impact of democracy, politics, and power.

  • Degree Level
    Master's
  • School & College
    School of Public Affairs
  • Application Deadline(s)
    December 15, 2025
  • Total Credit Hours
    39
  • Class Type
    Online
  • Time Commitment
    Full-Time or Part-Time
  • Start Term(s)
    Fall, Spring, Summer
Request Information
  • Fill out form
  • We'll be in touch soon
  • Get ready to meet your moment
On This Page
CU Denver online student working on coursework in the kitchen

MPA at CU Denver: Shape Your Career Through Policy Education

Accredited under NASPAA, this comprehensive program blends public administration and policy courses, offering concentrations like Disaster Management, Educational Policy, and Nonprofit Management. The program’s flexible structure, including part-time options, allows for career growth without compromising quality education. Join us in shaping the future of public administration and policy!

The Path to Public Leadership
certified diploma icon
NASPAA Accredited
Elevate your career through our top 15% nationally ranked MPA program.
lecturer presentation icon
Master Policy, Budgeting & Management
Dive into policy analysis, budgeting, and organizational management. Navigate the nexus of public policy administration.
puzzle icon
Seven Distinct Concentrations
From emergency management to education policy, specialize your MPA path and find unique career options.
handshake with stars icon
Capstone Project
Find real-world insights, and take advantage of our extensive alumni network—prepare for a high-impact role in the public and nonprofit sectors.

In State Tuition via WICHE* Initiative

Online MPA participates in the WRGP, which enables master's, graduate certificate, and PhD students from member states and territories to pursue their academic path affordably.

CU Denver student holding bag smiling and looking away from camera

$595

In State Cost per Credit

$714

Out of State Cost per Credit

*WICHE member states and U.S. territories encompass: Alaska (AK), Arizona (AZ), California (CA), Colorado (CO), Guam (GU), Hawaii (HI), Idaho (ID), Montana (MT), Nevada (NV), New Mexico (NM), North Dakota (ND), Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), Oregon (OR), Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), South Dakota (SD), Utah (UT), Washington (WA), and Wyoming (WY).

Empower Change Through Public Service

The program’s curriculum focuses on a blend of public administration and policy courses, covering topics such as budgeting/finance, ethics, organizational management, policy analysis, and effective policy writing. Students will be prepared for specialized roles in governance, policymaking, organizational management, and beyond.

Request Information

We will contact you within 24 hours.

Hear from Our Students & Alumni

  • The MPA program was a great foundation for understanding government. It’s where I first understood the difference between policy and politics. I love policy; I don’t love politics. I also loved that the SPA program was grounded in reality, not just the academic ivory tower.

    Katy A.
    MPA ’01
Katy A., MPA ’01
CU Denver student working outside in downtown

Your Future Begins Online at CU Denver

CU Denver’s online degree programs offer students the flexibility to pursue education from anywhere, at any time, while still receiving a top-tier education. Whether it is advancing current skills, changing careers, or pursuing a passion, CU Denver's online degree programs can help students achieve their goals.

We will contact you within 24 hours.