Our program serves as a true trailhead to public service, guiding students from aspiration to impact. Through expert faculty mentorship, collaborative learning environments, and connections to practitioners in the field, you will gain the confidence and competence to lead in complex and evolving environments. Whether your goal is to work in government, nonprofit management, policy analysis, community development, or organizational leadership, we provide the tools and support to help you succeed.
We are equally committed to making your path into the program straightforward and supportive through hassle free admissions. Our application process is designed to be clear, transparent, and accessible. Detailed in-application instructions guide you step by step, and our team is available to answer questions along the way. If you experience any issues with your application, please contact Eli Redeker at mpa@umontana.edu for assistance.
Once your application is complete, please allow 2–3 weeks for review.
Recognizing that many of our students are working professionals, we prioritize student centric flexibility in program delivery. Flexible course formats, supportive advising, and a practical approach to scheduling allow you to balance your academic goals with professional and personal responsibilities. Our goal is to remove barriers so you can focus on learning, growing, and preparing for meaningful leadership in public service.
We look forward to helping you take the next step in your professional journey and welcoming you into a community dedicated to service, leadership, and impact.
How to Apply
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To apply for the MPA, please submit the required . If you have already been admitted to the School of Law within the last year, contact mpa@mso.umt.edu.
Please submit the following documents directly with your application:
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited university/college
- Personal statement (500 words) concerning the applicant's objectives to pursue an MPA and how they intend to carry out our mission of public service values
- A resume
Applications are received on a rolling basis (Summer, Fall, Spring). Applications are reviewed by the MPA Admissions committee when they are completed. Review can take up to three weeks upon receipt. Please note: It is advised to turn in materials a semester prior to your start date. Often our classes completely fill and space is not available.
Graduate students may take MPA courses prior to their admission to the MPA program by applying for graduate non-degree status. Up to nine (9) credit hours taken in nondegree status may be counted toward the degree with the approval of the MPA program director. To apply for graduate non-degree status, visit the Graduate School website. If you have been admitted to the School of Law, please work with the Registrar’s Office to transfer materials to the Graduate College.
Students admitted under provisional status must successfully maintain a 3.0 after a full semester. If a 3.0 is not maintained, the student will be denied admission to the MPA Program. Please review the details in our student handbook.
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Persons holding a baccalaureate degree from any accredited college or university are eligible to apply. To apply, please submit the required .
9 credits may be shared between the MSW and the MPA.
Students interested in applying to both the MPA and MSW should reach out to the respective departments for more information regarding the application process.
Interested students must complete a full application for each Masters degree they wish to pursue.
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Once you have made a decision to declare the nonprofit administration minor, you can email mpa@mso.umt.edu for information on the admissions process. Admissions are made in coordination with Primary Advisors.
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Persons holding a baccalaureate degree from any accredited college or university are eligible to apply. To apply, please submit the required
Submit the following documents with your application:
- An official transcript(s) of previous college work, a 3.0 or higher GPA is expected (send to grad.school@umontana.edu);
- A written statement of about 300 words stating your reasons for seeking the Certificate of Law, Policy, and Public Administration.
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis (for fall, spring, and semesters). Applications are reviewed by the DPAP Admissions committee.
Please note that the Graduate Certificate in Law Policy and Public Administration is not intended to serve as a Juris Doctor or other Law Degree. Participation in the LPPA Program does not affect one's entry or acceptance into the School of Law.
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A person holding a baccalaureate degree from any accredited college or university is eligible to apply for a certificate in public policy. To apply, please submit the required .
Submit the following documents with your application:
- An official transcript(s) of previous college work (undergraduate degree), a 3.0 or higher GPA is expected (send to grad.school@umontana.edu);
- A written statement of about 300 words stating your reasons for seeking the Certificate of Public Policy.
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis (for fall, spring, and semesters). We encourage applicants to apply at least one full semester in advance. Students can apply their coursework towards the MPA upon completion of the certificate if they are in good standing within the program (3.0 or higher).
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A person holding a baccalaureate degree from any accredited college or university is eligible to apply for a certificate in public administration. To apply, please submit the required .
- An official transcript(s) of previous college work (undergraduate degree), a 3.0 or higher GPA is expected (send to grad.school@umontana.edu);
- A written statement of about 300 words stating your reasons for seeking the Certificate of Public Administration.
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis (for fall, spring, and semesters). We encourage applicants to apply at least one full semester in advance. Students can apply their coursework towards the MPA upon completion of the certificate if they are in good standing within the program (3.0 or higher).
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A person holding a baccalaureate degree from any accredited college or university is eligible to apply for a certificate in nonprofit administration. To apply, please submit the required .
- An official transcript(s) of previous college work (undergraduate degree), a 3.0 or higher GPA is expected (send to grad.school@umontana.edu)
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis (for fall, spring, and semesters). We encourage applicants to apply at least one full semester in advance. Students can apply their coursework towards the MPA upon completion of the certificate if they are in good standing within the program (3.0 or higher).
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Contact Wildlife Biology director Chad Bishop at chad.bishop@umontana.edu with any questions.