FAQs
The Master of Public Administration focuses on the development of public service leaders. The curriculum combines challenging coursework in organizational behavior and leadership, change management, public policy implementation and public finance, among other necessary skills for effective leaders in the public and nonprofit sectors. Many MPA students are practitioners. Graduates include public and nonprofit managers, policy advisors, senior government officials and elected officials.
The Master of Public Policy focuses on the practical and applied dimensions of policy analysis, ethics and leadership principles and research methods. The interdisciplinary curriculum combines coursework in political science, economics, computer science, business and statistics. MPP candidates develop strong quantitative and data analysis skills and cross-disciplinary competence. Alumni hold positions as analysts, consultants, researchers, grant writers and professionals in various sectors.
Both programs are relevant to the broad profession of public affairs and share a single-minded mission of developing leaders to apply policy theory to solve real-world problems and make a positive impact on communities.
Hobby School Graduate Programs Comparison Chart
Master of Public Administration (MPA) | Master of Public Policy (MPP) | Graduate Certificates | |
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Program Emphasis |
Graduates will be prepared to act as ethical and innovative leaders. Focuses on the development of public service leaders through coursework in public management, strategic planning, budgeting for public agencies, program evaluation and policy implementation. |
Graduates will be ready to address the most challenging policy issues. Focuses on strong quantitative and data analysis skills and cross-disciplinary competence, incorporating political science, economics, philosophy and statistics. |
Provides professionals from various backgrounds with advanced training and instruction to enhance their careers. Focuses on specializations with practical applications to provide specific skill sets and expertise in public policy and public administration. |
Program Start | Spring and Fall | Spring and Fall | Spring and Fall |
Length | Full-time Enrollment: Two years (four to five semesters)
Part-time Enrollment: Three to five years (six to 10 semesters) |
Full-time Enrollment: Two years (four to five semesters)
Part-time Enrollment: Three to five years (six to 10 semesters) |
Full-time Enrollment: One year (two semesters)
Part-time Enrollment: Two years (two to four semesters) |
Location | On campus with some online and hybrid courses available | On campus with some online and hybrid courses available | On campus with some online and hybrid courses available |
Entrance Exam | GRE waived if 3.3 or higher undergraduate GPA or completed a master’s or doctoral degree | GRE waived if 3.3 or higher undergraduate GPA or completed a master’s or doctoral degree | No |
Classes | 12 courses (36 credit hours) | 13 courses (39 credit hours) | 4 courses (12 credit hours) |
Specialization/Electives | A specialization and two elective courses | A specialization and two elective courses | One to two elective courses depending on the graduate certificate |
Capstone Project | Yes | Yes | No |
Internship Requirement* | Yes | Yes | No |
Estimated Total Tuition and Fees Cost** | Texas Residents: $17,200
Non-Residents: $36,000 |
Texas Residents: $18,500
Non-Residents: $38,500 |
Texas Residents: $6,000
Non-Residents: $12,000 |
Financial Support | Hobby School and university scholarships, limited teaching and research assistant positions for second-year students and loans | Hobby School and university scholarships, limited teaching and research assistant positions for second-year students and loans | No financial aid is available for those earning graduate certificates |
Application Deadlines | Fall
Spring
|
Fall
Spring
|
Fall
Spring
|
Average Incoming Class Size | Fall: 12
Spring: 3 |
Fall: 25
Spring: 7 |
Fall: 4
Spring: 2 |
Average Years of Professional Experience*** | 5 years | 2 years | 5 years |
* The Hobby School will assist students with internship placements. Those who are working may use their current position to fulfill the internship requirement if it’s related to public administration/public policy and approved by the Hobby School. For the MPP, the internship course and related assignments will still need to be completed.
** This is an estimate for tuition and fees prior to scholarships and financial aid and does not include housing, transportation, living expenses, books or other school-related expenses. Qualified non-Texas residents/international students can receive a scholarship that will reduce overall tuition and fees to match the Texas resident amount. This scholarship is renewed based on academic progress.
*** Approximately 50% of all Hobby School graduate students begin their graduate program immediately after completing their undergraduate program.
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What employment opportunities do MPP graduates have?
MPP graduates will have diverse skills for employment in public, private, and nonprofit sectors and benefit from the Hobby School's extensive network of practitioners.Recent employers of MPP alumni include Air Alliance Houston, American International Group Inc., British Consulate General Houston, Children at Risk, Drug Enforcement Agency, Fort Bend County Office of Emergency Management, Harris County Budget Management, Harris County Public Health, Harris County District Attorney's Office, Houston-Galveston Area Council, Institute for Human Rights and Business, Invesco, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, Los Alamos National Laboratory, office of state Rep. Mary Gonzalez, office of Rep. Randy Weber, Rice University's Kinder Institute for Urban Research, Texana Center, Texas Civil Rights Project, Texas Legislative Budget Board, United Healthcare, U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.
The average starting salary of a MPP graduate will vary significantly by sector, geography and work experience. For example, entry-level policy analysts average over $50,000, and executive positions can earn over $100,000.
For more career-related information, current Hobby School students and alumni can visit the UH University Career Services. These services include resume support, job search assistance, career assessments, interview preparation, salary negotiation, and much more.
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Is the MPP program accredited?
Yes, the MPP program was accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration's Commission on Peer Review and Accreditation in 2022. -
How much is tuition and fees?
Please visit the Graduate Costs & Financial Aid page for a useful calculator to estimate tuition and fees. Full-time students usually register for at least nine credit hours (three courses) per semester. Part-time students register for six or three credit hours (one or two courses) per semester. -
Does UH offer a PhD program in Public Policy?
No, UH does not currently offer a Ph.D. program in Public Policy. However, the Hobby School anticipates offering a Ph.D. program in Public Policy in the near future. -
What are the application deadlines for the graduate programs?
The Spring 2025 priority deadline for domestic and international applicants is September 1, 2024. The Spring 2025 application deadline for international applicants is October 1, 2024, and for domestic applicants is December 1, 2024.
The Fall 2025 priority deadline for domestic and international applicants is March 1, 2025. The Fall 2024 application deadline for international applicants is May 1, 2025, and for domestic applicants is August 1, 2025.
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When are applications reviewed and when should an admissions decision be expected?
The Hobby School Admissions Committee will not review any application until the entire application has been completed and submitted.Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis as they are received. The Hobby School Admissions Committee's goal is for the applicant to receive an admissions decision within two weeks of submitting a completed application.
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What are the application fees for the graduate programs?
The application fee for the MPA and MPP programs is $50 for domestic student applicants and $80 for international student applicants. The application fee for the graduate certificate programs is $25. Domestic applicants can receive an application fee waiver if they attend one of the Hobby School's virtual information sessions. International applicants aren't currently able to receive an application fee waiver for the Hobby School's graduate programs. -
What semesters offer admission to the graduate programs?
The graduate programs offer admissions for the fall and spring semesters. -
How should transcripts be submitted?
Submit your official transcripts via one of these options. Electronic transcripts is the preferred method for Texas academic institutions.
Submitting official transcripts ASAP in the application process is strongly recommended. Unofficial transcripts refer to anything not received directly from an academic institution. Registration is not allowed until official transcripts have been received and verified.
International transcripts and degree certificates must be sent to the UH Graduate School in envelopes sealed and stamped by the issuing university to be considered official. Electronic academic documents sent from international applicants will not be accepted.
For more information on submitting transcripts for international applicants, visit the UH Graduate School's Transcript Information page.
Do not mail or drop off your transcripts to the Hobby School.
Regular Mail Address Express Mail Address Electronic or Speede Transcript University of Houston
Graduate Admissions
P.O. Box 3947
Houston, TX 77253-3947University of Houston Graduate Admissions
5000 Gulf Freeway
UH Technology Bridge
Building No. 3, Rm. 170
Houston, TX 77204-2105The fastest way to send your college transcripts is electronically. We strongly recommend that you inquire at your previous institution about this option.
Within the State of Texas, transcripts may be sent from your previous institution as a "Speede" transcript. For non-Texas institutions, electronic transcripts can be delivered via secured email to gradschool@uh.edu from the academic institution.
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Who should submit the letters of recommendation?
The application for the MPP and MPA requires two letters of recommendation. The graduate certificate application does not. Letters of recommendation are gathered electronically. Applicants will be asked to provide the e-mail addresses of two references. Recommenders will be notified via e-mail and provided instructions to upload their letter of recommendation in support of the applicant. The Hobby School encourages applicants to select one recommender that is a professional reference and the other recommender as an academic reference. -
What is a statement of purpose?
The statement of purpose (or personal/goal statement) explains why the applicant wants to pursue a graduate program and why the applicant would be a good candidate for the program. This document should be between 1-2 pages. -
What specializations are offered in the MPP program?
As part of the MPP program, students are required to complete a specialization that is six hours, or typically two courses. This specialization and courses are selected by the student and approved by the Hobby School.The Hobby School doesn't have a pre-selected list of specializations that must be used. Therefore, students are encouraged to find graduate-level elective courses throughout the university that fit their interests. The following are some examples of MPP students' specializations: Governmental Affairs, Health Policy, Higher Education Policy, Nonprofit Management, and Quantitative Methods.
The specialization won't specifically appear on students' diploma or transcript. However, a record is kept by the Hobby School of all specializations, and students are encouraged to list their specialization on their resume.
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Do you offer any dual degree programs?
Each dual degree program awards two degrees in less time than if a student were to pursue the degrees separately. Applicants must be accepted to both programs to pursue a concurrent degree. Admission to one of the degrees does not guarantee admission to the other program. The UH Law Center and the Hobby School jointly offer the JD/MPA Program, which enables students to earn a JD and MPA degree simultaneously.For more information on these programs, visit Dual Degree Programs page.
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How long do the graduate programs and graduate certificates take to complete?
Full-time students can complete the MPA or MPP program in two years or four to five semesters. Part-time enrollment can take three or more years. Dual degree programs will typically take an additional year to earn both degrees. The graduate certificates are comprised of four courses and are designed to be completed in two semesters. -
Is there a minimum GPA requirement for the graduate programs?
No, and the Hobby School Admissions Committee considers not just an applicant's GPA, but also their previous academic institutions, major/minor, and time to complete their program. While there is no minimum GPA requirement for these programs, applicants will have a higher probability of admission with a higher GPA.However, applicants that have a GPA below 3.0 can only be admitted on a conditional basis, which is a probationary status to closely monitor the student's progress.
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Are there any required prerequisite courses needed for admission into the graduate programs?
No, there aren't any required prerequisite courses needed for admission into the MPA, MPP or graduate certificate programs. However, students would significantly benefit from previous economics, mathematics, philosophy and writing courses. The Hobby School offers non-mandatory review sessions before the fall semesters that cover important concepts to help students be better prepared. -
What graduate-level tests are required for admission into the graduate programs?
Beginning Spring 2023, the GRE is waived for all applicants with a 3.3 or higher undergraduate GPA or if an applicant has completed a master's or doctoral degree.
Although there are no minimum GRE scores, the typical well-qualified student scores at least 152 on the verbal reasoning (approximately 52nd percentile), 150 on the quantitative reasoning (approximately 33rd percentile), and 4.0 on the analytical writing (approximately 54th percentile) sections. GRE scores will only be counted if the exam was completed within the previous five years of the application.
GRE scores should be sent directly from Educational Testing Services (ETS) to UH (GRE Code: R6870). Your application will not be processed without GRE scores if they are required. GRE scores older than five years will not be accepted.
International applicants will also have to satisfy English language proficiency requirements, which might include taking an approved test. For more specific information about the English language proficiency requirements, visit the English Language Proficiency Requirement page.
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Can I still submit GRE test scores even if I qualify for a GRE waiver?
Yes, although applicants aren't required to submit GRE test scores if they qualify for a GRE waiver, they can still be submitted. GRE scores that are considered "good" may help an application or increase scholarship funding. However, GRE scores that are considered "bad" may do the opposite. Therefore, the applicant should take this into consideration prior to submitting GRE test scores if they aren't required.
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What are the English language proficiency requirements for admission?
All graduate applicants, regardless of citizenship status, must demonstrate proficiency in English to obtain admission to the graduate programs.The most common way is for an applicant to earn a bachelor's degree (or higher) from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or at an institution at which English is the medium of instruction in the following countries: American Samoa, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Canada (except the Province of Quebec), Cayman Islands, Dominica, Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), Ghana, Gilbraltar, Grenada, Guam, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Liberia, Micronesia (Federated States of Micronesia), Montserrat, New Zealand, Nigeria, Saint Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Helena, South Africa, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Trinidad & Tobago, Turks & Caicos Islands, United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales), United States, Virgin Islands, and Zimbabwe).
The other methods are achieving minimum scores on the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)/IELTS (International English Language Testing Service)/Duolingo English Test, or Level 6 completion of UH's Language and Culture Center.
For more specific information about the English language proficiency requirements, visit the English Language Proficiency Requirement page.
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What scholarships and other financial aid is offered?
Each semester, eligible students currently receive up to a $3,000 Hobby School Excellence Scholarship. The Hobby School Excellence Scholarship is available on a first-come, first-serve basis, so applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible. In addition, other scholarships, grants, and loans are available via the UH Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.Graduate certificate students aren't eligible for Hobby School scholarships or federal financial aid.
For more information, please visit the Financial Aid page.
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Can the graduate programs be completed entirely online?
No, the MPA, MPP and graduate certificate classes cannot currently be completed entirely online. While a few classes are typically offered online throughout the program, most of the Hobby School's classes are currently face-to-face or hybrid. -
When are graduate program classes held?
To accommodate working students, most required classes are offered in the evenings, Monday through Thursday from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. However, some required classes have sections that are offered online. Specialization elective classes can be held on different days and times. -
What and when is the process for registering for classes as an incoming or current student?
Visit the Courses & Enrollment page for detailed instructions on how to register, steps to enroll, and more. The Enrollment Schedule page and individual student accounts show when students are eligible to register for a specific semester. -
What is the process for dropping classes?
Until the Official Reporting Day (ORD) via the Academic Calendar, classes can be dropped online, and the student will receive no grade.
After ORD, students must drop a class by following these steps, and the student will receive a W:
1) Download the Student-Initiated Drop Form.
2) Complete the form in its entirety and sign it. Obtain course instructor's signature.
3) Submit the completed form to the Office of the University Registrar service desk in the Welcome Center by close of business on the Drop Due Date. Students should continue to attend the class until the drop is visible in your student account.
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Can I use my current job for the graduate program internship requirement?
Yes, if the job is related to public policy/public administration and approved by the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies, it can be used for the internship requirement. However, the internship course and related assignments would still need to be completed. The Hobby School will assist students in finding possible internships if they aren't currently working. Recent internship placements include the Center for Civic and Public Policy Improvement, City of Austin’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, City of Conroe’s Office of Finance & Administration, City of Houston’s Mayor’s Office, League City’s Public Library, Fort Bend County Public Health and Harris County Office of Intergovernmental and Global Affairs. -
Can I transfer courses from another graduate school?
Possibly. With approval from the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies, students can transfer up to nine graduate credit hours from another university if they have not already completed that graduate program. Students will not receive transfer credit from a completed program. In addition, students will be required to submit syllabi and possibly coursework for the Hobby School to evaluate the potential for transfer credit. -
Can the Hobby School's Certified Public Manager Program (CPM) tracks/courses count as transfer credit towards a Hobby School graduate program?
Yes, if you completed the Hobby School's CPM Program, your CPM certification and coursework can potentially count for 3-6 credit hours for a master’s degree by following these steps:1) Apply and gain acceptance as a Hobby School graduate student in the Master of Public Administration or Master of Public Policy program. Please contact Scott Mason (smason@uh.edu; 713-743-5572) for details regarding the graduate admission process.
2) Provide a written request to the graduate program advisor, along with official documentation showing the completion of the CPM program.
3) The Hobby School will review the request and documentation, and upon approval, will submit a petition to the UH Graduate School for a course waiver(s) for 3-6 credit hours in substitution of specialization/elective courses.
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Where do I find deadlines for adding classes, dropping classes, applying to graduate, and other important enrollment and registration items?
Visit the UH Graduate Catalog's Academic Calendar. -
How do I set up an academic advising appointment if I'm a current student?
Log into your student account via AccessUH, click on the "Navigate" icon, and follow the steps to request a face-to-face, phone, Teams, or Zoom meeting.For more information and troubleshooting, please review the UH Quick Start Guide for Advising Appointments.
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What is the minimum graduate GPA to graduate?
The minimum GPA required to complete a graduate program is 3.0. Students with a GPA below 3.0 will not be approved for graduation and will be required to take additional courses to sufficiently raise the GPA before reapplying to graduate. -
What is the process for graduation and commencement?
For more information, visit the Hobby School Commencement page. -
Can I graduate with honors?
No, graduating with honors (Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, and Summa Cum Laude) is only for undergraduate programs. However, students are invited to join Pi Alpha Alpha, the global honor society for public affairs and administration. The minimum requirements for graduate students to be inducted are to achieve and maintain a 3.7 or above GPA, and the completion of more than 50% of coursework in a public policy/public administration degree. -
Who should I contact if I have any questions about the application process for the MPP and graduate certificate programs?
Please contact Scott Mason (smason@uh.edu; 713-743-5572). -
Where are Bates Building/Bates Law and Teaching Unit 2 located (Hobby School's current administrative office and classroom locations) and where is the best place to park?
Bates Building/Bates Law (BL) and Teaching Unit 2 (TU2) are in the old UH Law Center complex near the new John M. O'Quinn Law Building and the Elgin Street Parking Garage. Classrooms are in both the Bates Building and Teaching Unit 2.In Bates Building, faculty offices are on the First and Second Floors; the Office of the Dean is Room 104; Business Operations is Room 101; Student Study Room is Room 105; Student Services is Room 5; and the Teaching Assistant and Research Assistant Room is Room 205.
In Teaching Unit 2, Communications and Marketing is Room 102.
The Hobby School recommends parking in either the Elgin Street Garage or Zone C.
For more information, please visit the Hobby School's Visitor Information page.