MPA Admissions Information

Admissions Information

Requirements

• Resumé
• Unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended
• Two letters of recommendation (academic and/or professional)
• Personal statement
  • 1-2 pages, relevant experience, and why the M.P.A fits your future and goals

Our minimum requirement for GPA is a 2.75. The average GPA of our accepted students is 3.3. For all students, we look at your grades in the last 60 units, how well you performed in your major, any experience in the public sector, your GRE scores (if supplied), and the quality of your written statement of purpose. The higher your grades, the less we will need to weigh your supporting documents. Given the nature of our program, priority is given to those with experience in the public/nonprofit sector. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Graduate Student Application Checklist under the Office of Graduate Studies. You may also view the Cal State Apply Graduate Application Tutorial . 

Prerequisite Courses

There are three prerequisites: American Government or US History; Economics; Research Methods or Statistics. American Government or US History must be completed before taking any MPA course. The other prerequisites may be taken during the first two semesters in the program. In order to count, courses must be taken at an accredited college, university, or community college and students must earn a “C” or better.

Admission Tips

• CSUF alumni usually do not need to resend official transcripts to CSUF Admissions.
• Not a recent CSUF grad? Contact Admissions to see if transcripts are already on file.
• Career Center resources can help polish your statement.
• Official transcripts must be sent directly to CSUF Admissions per their instructions.
• Check the CSUF Admissions site for how to submit official transcripts (mail or electronic).
• Letters of recommendation: choose writers who can speak to your readiness for graduate study and public service.
• GRE: not required; send scores directly to the department if you have them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What semesters are students admitted to the Program?

Students are normally admitted in the Spring and the Fall. Spring admissions are typically due at the beginning of December and Fall admissions are typically due at the beginning of May.

Can I apply before I finish my BA?

Yes, but the BA must be completed by the tme you start the program.

Can I transfer into your Program from another Public Administration Program?

In most cases yes, and often we will give credit for courses taken eslsewhere. However, 21 of the 36 units must be taken in our Program.

What if I am an international student?

If you are an international student, you must have a score of 570 (paper) or 230 (computer based) on the TOEFL exam, in addition to the other requirements. The TOEFL code for CSUF is 4589. Students who feel their English is not yet up to this level often do a semester in our English as a Foreign Language Program before commencing graduate classes. More information for international students can be found on Extension and International Programs website.