Online Masters of Public Administration

Entry requirements

In order to be accepted onto the Online Masters of Public Administration, applicants must possess:

• At least an upper second-class degree or postgraduate diploma from a UK university or equivalent
• 3.5 GPA
• Two references
• A statement of purpose

Visit the programme website for more information.

Months of entry

January, February, June, August, October

Course content

Lead positive change, study the latest international thinking and master unique public-sector strategy with the University of Birmingham’s 100% Online Masters of Public Administration.

Online Masters of Public Administration

Designed to equip public-sector professionals with the tools necessary to help make a positive difference and help manage change in their sphere, the University of Birmingham’s 100% Online Masters of Public Administration will help you to evaluate your impact within local governance and strategic public management.

Delivered through the prestigious Institute of Local Government Studies (INLOGOV) – the United Kingdom’s leading centre for the study of local public service management, policy and governance – this programme is perfectly positioned to encourage progressive ideas and innovative thinking without having to set foot on campus.

“This programme was without a doubt the most appropriate academic path for me. I could have gone to many other competitive schools to obtain my masters, but the University of Birmingham offered a world-renowned reputation for excellence, the most flexibility, affordability, attentive academic staff, and most importantly; the convenient part-time timeframe.” (Vanna Curi, Online Masters of Public Administration).

From the outset, you will have access to employment advice and one-to-one coaching to confirm your goals, helping you to shape the future of public services. Gain the necessary skills and progressive insights to make an impact in your sphere.

Lead in the public-sector

The Online Masters of Public Administration has been specifically designed for those who are seeking to take their career in public services further – whether it’s a move into a more senior role, a change in career, a new department or even a shift into consultancy work.

Studying the Online Masters of Public Administration takes approximately 2.5 years to complete. It is a 180-credit programme (including a 60-credit dissertation).

Year one core modules - credits

• Public Management and Governance in a Changing World - 10
• Leadership in Public Services - 10
• Strategic Management - 10
• Managing Public Money - 10
• Delivering Services and Outcomes - 10
• Public Policy Research Methods – 10

Year two core modules - credits

• Programme Management - 10
• Performance Management - 10
• Partnership and Collaboration - 10
• Democracy, Governance and Participation - 10
• Managing in a Political Environment - 10
• Managing the Information Age - 10

Dissertation - credits

• Dissertation - 60

“Studying online has many advantages which include being able to study from the comfort of my own home, at times of my own choosing, with all the appropriate readings for each lesson available online. I also have the opportunity to get to interact with fellow ‘classmates’ via discussion forums and online webinars.” Sharon Clayton, Online Masters of Public Administration.

Short courses in public administration

Not looking for a full masters? Study the core practices, principles and strategies of public services by joining a flexible 8 week course and receive an official University of Birmingham Postgraduate Microcredential certificate worth 10 masters credits.

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Information for international students

For international students, standard English language requirements apply. You must have an IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band.

Fees and funding

The University of Birmingham is offering a 10% early bird discount from the first module for the Spring 2025 intake to those who have accepted an unconditional offer and are registered on the programme by 31st January 2025.

The estimated total cost of this programme is £14,625. You can pay in full or in instalments of £1,125 on a module by module basis.

Visit the programme website for more information.