The MPA degree program is open to students planning careers in public organizations who have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution. Admission will be granted based upon the Admission Committee's overall assessment of the student's qualifications and academic/career potential, using the following criteria:

1. Cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 2.5;
   Students with GPA below 2.5 will not be considered for admission.
2. Statement of Purpose in pursuing the MPA degree. In a 1-2 page essay double-spaced, please explain who you are, your career goals and how the MPA degree will help you achieve those goals;
3. Two letters of academic and/or professional recommendation (on professional letterhead - company or educational institution stationery). The letter writers should include how they know you, if they think you would be successful in the program and why. Letters must be current, dated and signed.
4. Professional resume/vita;
5. All undergraduate/graduate transcripts. (These must be sent directly to University Admissions - NOT the Department.)

  
All applicants must submit an online Graduate Admission application declaring Public Administration as a degree objective, and transcripts, at http://www.csumentor.edu along with a non-refundable fee.  For the "Statement of Purpose" and "References" sections on the CSU Mentor application, applicants may put "submitted directly to the department."

In addition, applicants must also submit the above application materials (Statement of Purpose, 2 letters of reference and resume) directly to the Department of Public Affairs and Administration at the following address:

                                                California State University East Bay

                                                Department of Public Affairs and Administration

                                                25800 Carlos Bee Boulevard,  MI 4122

                                                Hayward, CA 94542-3040

The Department cannot accept materials sent electronically.  We prefer all documents be mailed to us but will accept faxed documents if necessary.  The Department fax number is 510 885-3726.

PLEASE REMEMBER TO PUT YOUR NAME ON EACH AND EVERY PAGE OF ALL DOCUMENTS SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT!