Frequently Asked Questions
Learn the answers to the most common questions about the MPA online program from Anna Maria College.
Q: What are the admissions requirements for the MPA online program?
A: To apply for the Master's in Public Administration online program at Anna Maria College, you must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution, and you must submit the following items:
- Completed Online Application
- Non-refundable $40 application fee
- Official conferred degree bearing undergraduate transcript. If you have completed graduate work that you would like considered, an official transcript will be required.
- Two references listing the name, title, phone number, email address, relationship to you and employer for each reference
- Your current resumé
- Personal statement
Note: You need to have a minimum GPA of 2.7
Q: How long does it take to earn the MPA online?
A: The 12-course curriculum for the MPA degree is usually completed in two years, given that you take one course per term. There are six terms in a year.
Those students who meet the eligibility of the Mid-Career Track may graduate in as little as one-and-a-half years, after completing 10 courses.
Q: What is the Mid-Career Track?
A: Students who have graduated from a qualified police or fire academy and work in a relevant field could be eligible to be waived out of two courses due to their experience. Instead of the traditional 36 credit hours needed, you may earn your MPA in as few as 30 credits or 10 courses. General Track MPA applicants may qualify for the Mid-Career Track if they have 4+ years of applicable field experience. Please check with your Program Director to evaluate your work experience and see if you qualify. You may call us at 877-265-3201 or request more information.
Q: Can I appeal if I am not awarded the Mid-Career Track?
A: Yes, contact a Program Manager to learn how.
Q: If I am accepted into the Mid-Career Track, which two classes are waived?
A: Public Policy and Executive Leadership. View the rest of the MPA courses.
Q: If accepted into the Direct Track, why are the two extra classes from the core MPA taken vs. two additional classes in the concentration area?
A: Since this is a Master of Public Administration, your core Public Administration skills will be enhanced.
Q: Are there prerequisites required?
A: There are no prerequisite courses needed to enroll in the Master of Public Administration. As long as you have completed an undergraduate degree at a regionally accredited university and meet the admissions requirements, you are ready to start! Visit our admissions requirements page for more information.
Q: I’m not sure which specialization is right for me. Which one should I choose?
A: Our Program Managers are here to help guide you in determining which specialization is right for you and your life goals. Reach out to a Program Manager to learn more.
Q: Can I take a specialization course from a different specialization?
A: This would be subject to Director approval.
Q: What types of students can I expect to be in class with in the MPA program?
A: Any given class will likely have a mix of seasoned professionals in fire service, law enforcement and healthcare.
Q: What types of networking opportunities are there in the online program?
A: IM in Engage, student lounge, Skype
Q: Are there scholarships available for the online programs at AMC?
A: No, there aren’t specific scholarships available to online students. However, learn about financial aid options.
Q: Can I transfer credits?
A: Accepted and matriculated students may be able to transfer up to 6 credits from a non-conferred master’s degree and a regionally accredited institution towards the required credits for a master’s program based on certain conditions. To learn more about this option please reach out to your Program Manager.
If you have graduated from a qualified police or fire academy and work in a relevant field, you may be eligible for the Mid-Career Track, allowing you to waive out of two courses, taking your MPA curriculum down to just 10 courses or 30 credits. General Track MPA applicants may qualify with 4+ years of applicable field experience.
Completion of the U. S. Fire Administration’s Executive Fire Officer program may qualify you for admission to the online Master of Public Administration program and earn you up to 12 credit hours toward an MPA with a Fire and Emergency Services specialization.
Q: Is the MPA-CJ Quinn Bill approved?
A: No
Q: I have so many other questions about online learning, student support, tuition, etc.
A: You’ll find many of the answers on the General FAQ Page or call 877-265-3201 to speak with a Program Manager.
Anna Maria College was approved by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to participate in SARA, and became a SARA institution in 2021. At this time, only California is not a member state. If you reside in California and are interested in taking an online class at Anna Maria College, or for more information about our participation in SARA, click here.