The Hobby School of Public Affairs is expanding its footprint in the public service education sphere. The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program will become part of the Hobby School in the fall of 2023. Previously headquartered in the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, the MPA has a rich history of supporting and advancing the next generation of public service leaders spanning five decades.

The strategic move is in step with other leading schools in the global network of schools of public affairs and administration. It is also aligned with the foundation laid out by former Lt. Gov. Bill Hobby and his family, who set out to establish a dynamic resource for public affairs education, research and civic engagement in the Lone Star State.

“Welcoming the MPA program to the Hobby School benefits our programs and enhances student success by offering more academic and career opportunities,” said Sunny Wong, Ph.D., associate dean for graduate studies. “The shared resources will help students build a diverse network in both public policy and public administration, opening doors for further collaboration and professional growth.”

Like the Hobby School’s current graduate programs, including the Master of Public Policy (MPP), dual degrees and graduate certificates in public policy, the MPA offers working and aspiring public service professionals a comprehensive graduate education and training for leadership roles in the public sector. While the MPA addresses public management, strategic planning, budgeting for public agencies, program evaluation and policy implementation, the MPP program focuses on formulating and evaluating policy using advanced quantitative and qualitative methods within an interdisciplinary framework. The two mission-oriented programs share a common goal of preparing those eager to make a difference in their communities to face tomorrow’s most pressing challenges.

I echo the MPA director Peter M. Koelling, J.D., Ph.D., when he says, “I am excited about the MPA program joining the Hobby School. The pairing is a natural fit and will help us centralize and streamline our resources to better serve the next generation of public sector professionals.” I join him in asking you to actively participate in our continuing growth and success.

Incorporating the MPA program into the Hobby School expands the academic options for UH students and opportunities for collaboration in the curriculums rooted in public service. In addition, combining the alumni network will multiply the Hobby School’s presence of ethical professionals leading throughout the region, state and country.

The Hobby School is moving forward at a rapid rate, thanks to our many supporters and advocates across the UH System and in the community, the determination of our advisory board, faculty and staff and champions in the field. I wholeheartedly welcome the MPA faculty, students and alumni into the Hobby School fold and look forward to celebrating with renewed efforts toward a productive future.

Jim Granato, PhD
Dean
Hobby School of Public Affairs
University of Houston