Applying to the MPA Program

Students must submit an application to Stanislaus State's Graduate School. Qualified individuals holding a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university may apply to the Graduate School.

MPA Application Requirements

Eligibility

To apply, you must have:

  • A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university.
  • A grade point average of 2.7 or better in the last 60 semester units.
  • The GRE is not required.

Prerequisites

Applicants who have not completed formal classes in American government, elementary statistics, and micro-economics will be required to take basic undergraduate courses in these three subjects before registering for certain graduate level courses in the MPA Program.

Submit Application to Graduate School

Each applicant must submit the following directly to the Graduate School:

  • Completed application through www.calstate.edu/apply
  • Official transcripts from each college or university attended. All transcripts must be submitted directly to the Graduate School. Direct transcript inquiries to graduate_school@csustan.edu.
  • Letters of Recommendation
    Three letters of recommendation from individuals who can evaluate your work or academic studies and can comment on your potential as a graduate student and professional in the field of public administration.
  • Resume or Vita
    A current resume or vita that details your education, work experiences, and other qualifications.
  • Letter of Interest
    A one- to two-page letter of interest explaining your purpose and career objectives in pursuing an MPA degree.
  • TOEFL (if applicable)
    Regardless of citizenship or residency, applicants who have not attended schools at the secondary level or above for at least three years (full-time) where English is the principal language of instruction must submit satisfactory scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

MPA Application Deadlines

The MPA admits new students each fall semester. Interested applicants must submit all required materials no later than June 1. Applicants will be notified by the program of admission status no later than June 30.

Updated: January 19, 2023