About Public Administration at CSUSB
Lead with Purpose. Serve with Impact.
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at Cal State San Bernardino prepares you to lead with confidence and integrity in public service and nonprofit sectors. Whether your passion lies in local government, public finance, human resources, or nonprofit leadership, CSUSB’s MPA program offers the education, flexibility and values-driven foundation to help you make a lasting difference.
What Sets CSUSB’s MPA Apart?
You’ll gain a high-quality education in public administration grounded in the core values of:
- Public service and ethical leadership
- Diversity, equity and inclusion
- Transparent, accountable governance
- Democratic participation and community engagement
Our program is designed for aspiring and current professionals who want to expand their impact in nonprofit organizations, local and state government, public agencies, and mission-driven leadership roles.
Customize Your Path: Six Career-Focused Concentrations
Tailor your MPA degree to match your interests and career goals. Choose from one of the following concentrations:
- Human Resources – Prepare to lead workforce development and talent strategy in public organizations.
- Leadership – Strengthen your strategic thinking and organizational change skills for executive roles.
- Nonprofit Leadership – Develop specialized knowledge in fundraising, governance and mission-driven management.
- Public Financial Management – Gain expertise in budgeting, financial analysis, and fiscal responsibility in public institutions.
- Cybersecurity – Explore the intersection of public policy and digital security in a growing area of need.
- Community Planning and Management – Learn how to lead sustainable, inclusive planning initiatives at the local and regional levels.
Why Choose CSUSB for Your MPA?
- Flexible format for working professionals
- Supportive faculty mentorship and small class sizes
- Applied, real-world learning experiences
- Affordable tuition at a university ranked among the top for social mobility
- Strong connections with local and regional public service organizations
Define the Future of Public Service
Whether you're looking to advance your career or make a career change with purpose, the MPA at CSUSB gives you the tools to lead with knowledge, equity, and heart.
Careers in Public Administration
Turn Your Passion for Service into Purposeful Leadership
A Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Cal State San Bernardino empowers you to make a meaningful difference in your community—and your career. Whether you plan to lead a nonprofit, work in local government, or drive policy at the state or national level, your MPA will position you as a capable, values-driven leader.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for social and community service managers—a common path for MPA graduates—is projected to grow faster than average over the next decade. That’s good news for professionals looking to serve the public good in impactful and innovative ways.
Possible Career Paths
With an MPA, you’ll be prepared for roles such as:
- Public Affairs Specialist or Manager
- Policy Analyst or Manager
- Urban or Regional Planner
- Budget Analyst
- Data Analyst
- Human Resources Manager or Director
- Financial Analyst
- Development Coordinator
- Park Manager or Recreation Director
- Cybersecurity Specialist (public sector focus)
- Logistics Analyst (in government or nonprofit settings)
- CEO, CFO, or COO of a nonprofit or public organization
Some positions may require additional certifications or experience, depending on the role and sector.
Where Our Graduates Lead
Graduates from CSUSB’s MPA program go on to serve in:
- City and county government agencies
- State and federal public institutions
- Nonprofit organizations and community foundations
- Education, healthcare, and environmental agencies
- Public safety and emergency management
- International NGOs and advocacy organizations
Wherever you choose to lead, your MPA from CSUSB ensures you’re equipped with the tools, values and confidence to serve your organization—and your community—with distinction.
Sample Courses
Human Resource Management in the Public Sector
Topics include development of modern public service, professionalism and ethics, recruitment, selection, position management, compensation practices, appraisal, and personnel development.
Management of Public Organizations
Examines public service management, including the role of the public executive, theories of public organizations, human behavior in public organizations, innovation, and professional ethics.
Public Budgeting and Finance
Budgeting and finance theories, and concepts, and principles used in various settings that include federal, state, and local governments and nonprofit organizations Includes economic, management, and political approaches to appropriation and revenue decision-making processes, as well as ethics and major issues in contemporary budgeting.
Meet Professor Monty Van Wart, Ph.D.
Opportunities for Students
Engage. Network. Lead.
Student Involvement and Real-World Experience
At Cal State San Bernardino, your MPA experience extends beyond the classroom. You’ll be encouraged—and supported—to get involved, build your professional network, and gain real-world experience that strengthens your résumé and your impact.
Join a Community of Future Leaders
As a graduate student in public administration, you’ll have opportunities to join:
- Pi Alpha Alpha – CSUSB’s chapter of the National Honor Society for Public Affairs and Administration, recognizing academic excellence and leadership in the field.
- Professional organizations like the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA), the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), and other regional public service networks.
These groups offer networking, leadership development, and career exploration, helping you grow as a public servant and connect with peers and professionals who share your passion for making a difference.
Hands-On Learning Through Internships
If you’re entering the program without prior public-sector experience, you’ll complete an internship as part of your degree. CSUSB’s Department of Public Administration will work with you to find meaningful opportunities that align with your goals—whether in local government, nonprofit organizations, policy agencies, or community planning.
You’ll gain valuable, résumé-building experience while making a tangible impact in the Inland Empire and beyond.
You’re Not Just Earning a Degree—You’re Building a Future
At CSUSB, we believe in mentorship, applied learning, and purposeful connections. From student organizations to internship placement, you’ll be supported every step of the way as you prepare to lead in the public and nonprofit sectors.
Similar to Public Administration
With more than 50 undergraduate degress at CSUSB, we offer a variety of programs that reflect the Coyotes' passion for learning. Check out where your curiosity will take you at CSUSB.