The Political Science Department offers the Master of Public Affairs degree as preparation for professional positions in public service. The program provides advanced training for work in:

* Local, state, and federal agencies
* Private non-profit agencies and voluntary organizations
* Public affairs offices in private businesses
* Legislative staff positions
* Consulting firms and contract agencies

The UNCG MPA program is the only MPA program in the North Carolina Piedmont Triad that is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration. The program was started in 1976, and has been accredited since 1993. Our graduates number over 400, and they have found meaningful careers in a variety of positions and places from the Triad to far flung locations like Bosnia, Egypt, and Italy.

The MPA Program is designed to provide professional training to meet current demands in public service positions and to build the foundation for long-term development and advancement in a public service career.