Master of Public Administration, Policy and Civic Engagement - Early Entry

Political science student delivering a speech at a podium.

Make a difference through public service, sooner.

Exceptional undergraduate students from all majors with a desire to work in public service are invited to pursue this accelerated pathway to complete an interdisciplinary master’s degree that focuses on management and leadership skills in as little as one year after graduating with their bachelor’s degree. Students accepted into this Early Entry Master of Public Administration program will enroll in graduate-level courses during their senior year with 6-credits counting toward both their related major’s bachelor’s degree and their master’s degree in public administration.

An MPA prepares students for leadership careers in government and nonprofit organizations. Students complete the Public Leadership Certificate and one specialty certificate in Criminal Justice Management, Nonprofit Management, or Public Management, allowing them to tailor their studies to their career goals.

Students may apply in the second semester of their junior year (fall or spring).

Program Highlights

  • Interdisciplinary program open to all majors
  • Reduction of the master’s degree credit requirement by 6 credits
  • A smooth transition between undergraduate and graduate programs
  • Faculty dedicated to helping you become leaders in the public sector
  • Waived GRE/MAT score requirements and application fees

Develop Skills, Specialize Your Path, and Build Connections

  • MPA student smiling and engaging in conversation with a classmate.

    Develop Leadership and Management Skills

    Gain the expertise to lead employees and volunteers, navigate political systems, and collaborate effectively with government, nonprofit, and private partners. Build the confidence to make an impact in local, state, or national public service.

  • Student Fall 2023

    Specialize in Your Area of Interest

    Customize your MPA experience by completing the Public Leadership Certificate and one specialty certificate in Criminal Justice Management, Nonprofit Management, or Public Management. This stackable approach blends theory with practical application, preparing you to tackle real-world challenges and lead effectively in your chosen field.

  • MPA students smiling and celebrating at graduation, wearing caps and gowns.

    Build a Lifelong Professional Network

    Form lasting relationships with faculty and peers who are active in their communities. Our students’ varied backgrounds foster engaging classroom and online discussions that enrich your learning experience and expand your professional connections.

The most important thing that I’ve learned here at Westfield State that I can actually take along with me no matter where I go in my career path is leadership skills that I can put in my toolbox.

MPA program student Farah Rodriguez

Farah Rodriguez ‘19

What Can You Do with an Early Entry MPA?

An Early Entry MPA allows you to jump-start your career in public service by earning your master’s degree sooner—giving you a competitive edge in leadership roles across government, nonprofit, and related sectors. You’ll graduate with the professional skills and policy knowledge to make an impact in your community and beyond.

Your MPA can lead to meaningful roles such as:

  • Advocacy Director
  • City, County, State, or Federal Administrator
  • Community Relations Manager
  • Corporate Manager for Government Contracts
  • Fundraising Manager
  • Grant Administrator
  • Health Services Manager
  • Nonprofit Director
  • Social or Community Service Manager
  • Urban or Regional Planner
MPA Program Director placing a graduation hood on a student during the commencement ceremony.

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • Open

    to all majors

  • Apply

    in your junior year

  • Choose

    from three stackable certificates

Learn from Expert Faculty Across Disciplines

As an Early Entry MPA student, you’ll benefit from an interdisciplinary approach that connects you with expert faculty across multiple departments and subject areas. Small class sizes provide personalized support, one-on-one mentoring, and opportunities to collaborate with both undergraduate and graduate peers—helping you build confidence and experience before you even complete your bachelor’s degree.

Contact Us

Dr. Charles DiStefano
Program Director

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Early Entry Program work?

During their senior year, students will take 6 credits designated by the public administration graduate program administrator, 3 credits in fall, and 3 credits in spring, in addition to their undergraduate courses. The 6 credits will be applied to their undergraduate studies and will count towards their master’s degree, with a grade of B or better. Students will fully enroll in the MPA program the summer after senior year.

What are the eligibility requirements?

Students may apply to the program in the second semester of their junior year (fall or spring) after completing 75 credits. Once accepted, they may begin the program after earning 90 credits, including at least 30 credits completed at Westfield State University.

To be eligible for the Early Entry program, in addition to the above, you must:
  • Have an overall GPA of 3.2
  • Complete the application form for the Master of Public Administration program and accompanying materials for the graduate application including:
    • Statement of interest (narrative statement)
    • Two letters of recommendation
    • Transcripts of all undergraduate work
  • Approval from your undergraduate academic advisor or department chair
What are the costs?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. Cost of courses taken at the graduate level differ from undergraduate tuition.

Once a student is enrolled in the graduate Public Administration program, the Division of Graduate and Continuing Education offers a limited number of graduate assistantships that can help with the cost of graduate courses.  

Who can I contact with questions?

For questions about the Early Entry MPA program contact:

Dr. Charles DiStefano, Program Director
cdistefano@westfield.ma.edu

For questions about applying to Westfield State University:

Undergraduate Admissions
413-579-3040
admissions@westfield.ma.edu

Graduate Admissions
413-572-8461
graduate@westfield.ma.edu

Related Programs

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Master of Public Administration, Policy and Civic Engagement - Early Entry