FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to complete the MPA program?

Students in the evening program typically finish in two-three years (6-10 semesters) depending on the number of classes taken each semester.  Executive program students finish up in just over two years.

How much does the MPA program cost?|
Evening program students pay general graduate resident or non-resident tuition rates. Rates usually increase annually. Executive MPA students pay a higher set fee, which includes tuition, text books and parking, as well as hotel and airfare costs for the  Washington D.C. class trip. Non-resident tuition is also considered for the Executive MPA.

How large are the classes?
Most evening classes are capped at 30 students with the core classes typically filling. Elective classes range from 10-30 students. Executive cohorts are usually 15-25 students.

Do I have to take the GRE?
No. The MPA admissions committee accepts the GRE, MAT, GMAT and LSAT, and does not prefer one graduate entrance exam over another. Every evening and executive MPA applicant must submit official scores (no older than five years) from one of these exams, unless s/he has already graduated from or began an accredited graduate degree program. If so, the test requirement is waived.

What is the minimum test score I must have to apply to the program?
There is no minimum. The admissions committee looks at percentile ranks, rather than raw test scores. As a general rule, the committee is looking for test scores in the 50th percentile or above. However, this is only one component of the application so test scores falling below the 50th percentile do not automatically eliminate an applicant from consideration.

What is the minimum GPA I must have to apply to the program?

The MPA program looks for a minimum GPA of 3.2. However, exceptions are made based on work experience, number of years out of school and strength of letters of recommend, letter of intent and test score.

Can my letters of nomination or recommendation be e-mailed to you?
No. Due to the volume of letters we receive, we would like your three (and only three) academic and/or professional references to mail their letters directly to us, preferably on letterhead.

Is there a form for my references to complete?
No. Your references should type a brief (typically no longer than one page) letter in business format, discussing your academic and/or administrative strengths/potential, and why they are recommending the admissions committee accept you into the MPA program. PLEASE DO NOT SUBMIT PERSONAL RECOMMEND LETTERS.

Is there a form for the letter of intent?
No. The letter should be around two pages, typed and in business letter format with the salutation addressed to Admissions Committee. Some things to focus on in the letter: why an MPA degree, what will an MPA degree do for my career goals and what will I bring to the MPA Program

Are there any program co-requisites?
Yes. MPA students are required to have taken U.S. Government (POLS 1100) and received a “C” or higher, or pass if taken “Pass-Fail”. Applicants may be accepted into the MPA program prior to completing this requirement, but should fulfill the course before beginning or very early on in the program. MPA students cannot graduate without this class, but it does not count toward graduation credit (it’s an undergraduate course). Please contact the program manager to discuss non credit options (three-day condensed class, CLEP exam, etc.).

May I transfer credits from another institution?
Yes. The University of Utah allows up to six graduate semester credit hours to be transferred from another accredited college or university. The class(es) must be approved by the MPA program manager or director, grades must be “B” or better, the coursework need not be older than four years when the student completes the MPA (students may seek an extension when appropriate) and the student fulfills the residency requirements of the University of Utah. Students seeking to transfer credit should supply the MPA office with the necessary supporting materials including syllabi, where possible, and catalog descriptions.

Is there an internship requirement?
Yes. Evening students who do not have at least one year of administrative work experience in the public or nonprofit sector (undergraduate internships and volunteer work do not count toward this experience), must fulfill a three month full-time internship. Students with applicable experience will be asked to apply for an internship waiver during their first semester. The program manager and director will decide if the waiver is sufficient. There is no internship requirement for Executive MPA students.

How many students are accepted into the program? When will I be notified?
The program accepts 40-60 evening students every fall, and up to 25 executive students. All applicants are notified by mail about whether or not they have been accepted between one-two months after the application deadline.