Bachelor's-Master of Public Administration 4+1

Tackle real-world challenges with a dual degree in public administration

The public administration dual degree program offers undergraduates a seamless path for earning a Master of Public Administration (MPA)--considered the MBA equivalent for individuals in the public sector. In the program, aspiring leaders find a collaborative and supportive environment to prepare to develop effective and transformational public policy and serve communities or organizations. At SHU, students work with peers and mentors to study real-world challenges and make data-driven decisions that translate into healthier, safer and more productive communities.

Dual degree students are guaranteed admission to the Master of Public Administration program provided they continue, as undergraduate students, to meet program-specific criteria to progress into graduate program enrollment.

Why Earn Your Bachelor’s-Master’s in Public Administration at Sacred Heart?

At Sacred Heart University, public administration students can complete their undergraduate and graduate degrees in just five years on a seamless track. MPA students have four concentrations to choose from, including criminal justice, emergency management, nonprofit management or a self-designed concentration.

Throughout the program, students participate in real-time studies with the Institute for Sustainability & Social Justice, and the Center for Nonprofits, which is part of the Welch College of Business & Technology.

Graduates of this program are well prepared for careers in government, social and community services, private industry, public safety and nonprofits.

Other benefits of our 4+1 Dual Degree Program include:

Find support

As undergraduates, students have an academic adviser, as well as other faculty and staff resources to help them stay on track and progress toward their graduate degree. Industry-specific events and student clubs are also available for undergraduate students to become more deeply involved in their graduate field.

Save money

Students who participate in dual degree programs may save on tuition costs compared to completing a separate graduate program.

Less stress

When you take advantage of the dual degree program, your spot in graduate school is already reserved. There’s no need for last-minute applications to graduate school during the final months of senior year.

What is the career outlook in public administration?

With your Master of Public Administration degree, you’ll be prepared for a career as a:

More Information

For additional information for prospective first-year students, contact:

Undergraduate Admissions
203-371-7880
enroll@sacredheart.edu

For additional information for current dual degree students, contact:

Graduate Admissions
203-365-7619
gradstudies@sacredheart.edu

Criteria to Progress to the Master of Public Administration Program

Students must meet program-specific guidelines to progress through the dual degree program and enroll in the MPA program:

• Successful completion of the bachelor’s degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher

This dual degree program is open to students in any undergraduate major with the exception of nursing and interdisciplinary studies.