Master in Public Administration (Master's)

Applications for the Jan 2027 intake are open until Oct 31, 2026, while tuition is Tuition and fees are subject to change and are determined by residency status and credit load. For current rates, visit the CSU Bakersfield Office of the Bursar..

The MPA programme is delivered primarily in person on the Main Campus in Bakersfield, California. It prepares students for managerial and leadership roles in government, nonprofit, and healthcare organizations. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and public service values. Students engage in policy processes and governance with an inclusive, socially responsible approach.

The programme requires a total of 45 credits, distributed across core coursework, elective courses, and a capstone experience. All credits are for the full MPA degree, not a concentration.

Graduates enter management and leadership roles in local, state, and federal government, nonprofit organizations, healthcare facilities, and public service agencies.

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75. Required documents include official transcripts, a statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation. The application is submitted through the Cal State Online Graduate Application.

The programme totals about 45 credit hours. On-campus, full-time or part-time, typically completed in two to three years. For international students, tuition is below the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 88% of applicants.

California State University-Bakersfield brings together four academic colleges covering arts and humanities, business and public administration, natural sciences, mathematics and engineering, and social sciences and education. The university offers more than 55 degree programs and has an Antelope Valley Campus as well as its Bakersfield campus. Current student-focused work includes support for AANHPI students and a collaboration space supported by a gift to the campus Collaborative Research Center.

CSUB has more than 10,419 enrolled students, more than 1,300 faculty and staff, and over 100 student clubs and organizations. Student life includes the Student Union, campus recreation and wellbeing, student government, campus programming, student organizations, dining and housing. The campus is located at 9001 Stockdale Highway in Bakersfield, California.

International students can find admissions, financial aid, tuition and fee information, registrar services, student records, academic roadmaps, and majors and degree programs through the university's student services structure. Housing, dining, recreation, campus safety, library access, email, and student support services are also part of the campus offering. Students with dependents have a designated area of support, while orientation and campus involvement provide ways to settle into university life.