Admissions to Our Program

Applying

The application process consists of two separate application forms.  One application is submitted online at Cal State Apply and the other to the Department.  Both applications should be submitted at the same time.  Both application processes must be complete before you can begin the MPA program.

University requirements for admission as a graduate student are listed in the CSULB Catalog.  Visit Cal State Apply to apply to the University (there is a $70 application fee).  You will need to submit one official transcript from all colleges and universities attended.  Transcripts are NOT required if you completed your undergraduate degree at CSULB.

For consideration for admission to the MPA program, you must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution and have maintained an undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of not less than 3.0 or 3.0 in your last 60 semester (90 quarter) units.  If you do not meet these requirements, but do have management, technical, or professional experience your application may be reviewed by the Department’s Admission Committee for special consideration.  Your application will be evaluated in terms of your previous academic and employment performance, promise as a graduate student and as a leader in some field of public administration, and commitment to develop, pursue, and perform effectively in a career in public administration.  To apply, you must email the following documents to the Department (in addition to any documents you submit to the University including official transcripts):

  • MPA application (Online) or MPA application (PDF)
  • Two letters of recommendation from former professors or from job supervisors
  • Personal statement concerning your reasons for wanting to obtain the MPA degree and for pursuing a career in the public sector (one to two pages)

All application materials should be emailed to CHHS-PPA@csulb.edu.

 

Applications

Application Filing Period

  • Fall: October 1st - June 1st
  • Spring: August 1st - November 1st

International Students Filing Period

  • Fall: October 1st - April 1st
  • Spring: August 1st - October 1st