Master of Public Administration (MPA): Public Sector Management and Leadership

About This Program

The Public Sector Management and Leadership option within CSUN's MPA program develops and enhances management skills, enabling graduates to function more effectively within all types of public organizations. This option emphasizes both the quantitative aspects of management (i.e., decisions based on analytical data) ... and the human dynamics of leadership. By emphasizing conceptual and professional development, the program offers a well-rounded perspective of the field and develops leaders with a broad understanding at both the organizational and theoretical levels.

CSUN's Master of Public Administration

Most participants come to the program with highly specialized knowledge that reflects their experience within a particular area of expertise. The program's integrated curriculum provides graduates with a broader perspective as well as a conceptual vocabulary for leading agencies through increasingly complex issues. The program also emphasizes systems thinking, which gives participants an understanding of the external and internal forces that impact decision-making and problem-solving at their agencies. To meet the needs of participants and the organizations they serve, this program is offered not only online but also on-campus and off-campus.

What Do MPA Graduates Do?

Our courses are developed by experienced industry professionals and CSUN faculty, with each one thoughtfully designed to build on the knowledge gained in previous classes. This structure ensures a cohesive, cumulative learning experience that prepares you for real-world impact.

By completing this program, you’ll open the door to a variety of exciting career opportunities, including—but not limited to—the following roles:

Social and Community Service Manager
Chief Executive
General and Operations Manager
Legislator
Administrative Services Manager
Director of Social Services
Director of Regulatory Affairs
Regulatory Affairs Manager
Program Manager
Operations Manager

Meet your Faculty

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Varouj Abkian

M.S.

Suzanne Beaumaster

Ph.D.

Lawrence Becker

Ph.D.

Professor, Department of Political Science

David Cain

MPA

Career Connections

As a CSUN graduate, you become part of an extensive network of over 435,000 alumni—an invaluable source of support for your professional success.

CSUN's Master of Public Administration graduates have built successful careers in these organizations and many others: Los Angeles Unified School District, Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services, City of Los Angeles, County of Ventura, University of California, Los Angeles County Department of Human Resources, California State University-Northridge, Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, and Los Angeles County Department of Health Services.