Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

To better assist you in preparing for your education, we have provided answers to some of the most common questions prospective students have about the program, its admissions policies, and the financial aid process. If you cannot find the answer to your query below, please contact us at Phone Number: 866-376-3167 or via e-mail.

General Program FAQ

This section will answer FAQs about the program, online modality, and credit requirements.

What is ExecutiveMPA@Syracuse?
ExecutiveMPA@Syracuse is the online Executive Master of Public Administration degree from Syracuse University’s Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, a #1-ranked school for graduate education in public affairs.1

Will I still have access to the same resources as the on-campus program?
Yes, as a student you will have access to the same digital resources that are available to students of the on-campus program, such as online libraries and databases, and the alumni community.

How is the online program similar to the on campus program?
Online classes are designed and led by Maxwell School faculty who also teach on campus; and, like the on-campus Executive MPA program, the online curriculum is designed to help you develop the same core leadership, management, and analytical skills applicable to the public sector and to an array of domestic and international mission-based organizations serving the public good.

How many credits are required?
30 credits are required to graduate.

Is the program full time or part time?
The ExecutiveMPA@Syracuse program is a part-time program.

How long does it take to complete the program?
The program can be completed in as few as 15 months.

Is the program delivered completely online?
Yes, all classes are delivered completely online. Courses include interactive asynchronous content that you can view anywhere at any time, as well as live, weekly sessions.

Admissions and Application Process FAQ

This section will answer FAQs about the application and its requirements, the process of applying, application fees and other requirements for testing or international students.

What are the requirements for admission?
Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution as well as at least five years of post-baccalaureate professional work experience in managerial positions with progressively greater levels of responsibility. Common areas of experience include leading teams, budgeting, and strategic planning. There is no minimum GPA or GRE required, but students with current scores are encouraged to submit them.

What is required in the application?
In addition to completing the online application, you must also submit the application fee, a personal essay, two letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and a resume or CV.

When is the application deadline?

Application deadlines can be found on our admissions page.

Are transfer credits accepted?
Students may petition to have up to six credit hours transferred into the program. For more information on the criteria and process for a petition, please consult with your admissions counselor.

Are GRE scores required?
Like the on-campus executive education program, GRE scores are not required to apply. However, applicants with current GRE scores are encouraged to include them with their application.

How many years of work experience are required?
Applicants must have at least five years of full-time professional experience in managerial positions with progressively greater levels of responsibility.

I’m not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, can I apply?
Yes, you can still apply.

I’m a U.S. citizen living abroad. Am I eligible for the program?
Yes, you are eligible for the program.

What is the application fee?
The application fee is $75, and it is nonrefundable. If you apply by the early priority deadline, the application fee will be waived. If you apply by the priority deadline, the application fee is $45.

Can the application fee be waived?
Application fee waivers are available for active-duty service members, veterans, McNair Scholars, current Syracuse University undergraduate and graduate students, Syracuse University alumni, and Syracuse University employees. Students who submit their application by the early priority deadline are also eligible for an application fee waiver. Speak with an admissions counselor to learn more.

Are there any prerequisite course requirements?
There are no prerequisite course requirements for admission to the Executive MPA online program. However, given the importance of mathematics in the curriculum, students must demonstrate proficiency in key algebraic and geometric principles prior to enrolling in PAI 897: Policy. For more information, please consult with your admissions counselor.

Are there special requirements for international students?
There are no additional requirements for international applicants. However, if your bachelor’s degree is not from an institution in which English is the language of instruction, you will need to submit TOEFL scores.

Do I have to take the TOEFL?
If you are an international student whose bachelor's degree was not earned from an institution in which English is the language of instruction, you must submit proof of competency in English. Competency in English can be demonstrated by taking the TOEFL.

For more information about tuition, financial aid, military benefits, and other options for securing funding for your degree, please visit the Syracuse University Tuition & Financial Aid FAQ page for our online graduate programs.

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1U.S. News & World Report, 2022 Best Public Affairs Schools (Accessed April 2021) Return to footnote reference