Program structure

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at the University of Victoria is structured to provide students with a solid foundation in public policy, governance, and management, while offering flexibility to tailor their studies through electives and practical experiences. Below is an overview of the typical program structure:

Program Duration:

• Full-Time: Typically completed in 2 years.
• Part-Time: Students have the flexibility to spread their coursework over a longer period, usually 3 to 5 years.

Credit Requirements:

To graduate with an MPA degree, students must complete 16.5 units of coursework, including core courses, electives, and a capstone project or internship.

Core Courses (Required):

Core courses provide foundational knowledge in public administration and policy. These courses include:

1. Public Policy Analysis: Covers tools and techniques used to analyze and evaluate public policies.
2. Public Administration Theory: Examines the principles of governance and the role of public institutions.
3. Public Sector Management: Focuses on human resources, leadership, and financial management in the public sector.
4. Research Methods in Public Administration: Teaches qualitative and quantitative research skills for policy and management analysis.
5. Governance and Public Administration: Explores governance structures and public sector challenges.
6. Financial Management in Public Sector: Focuses on budgeting, financial analysis, and resource allocation in public organizations.

Elective Courses:

Students can customize their learning experience by selecting from a variety of electives based on their interests and career goals. Common elective topics include:

• Social Policy
• Environmental Policy
• Indigenous Governance
• Health Policy
• International Relations
• Public-Private Partnerships

Students may also have the opportunity to take elective courses from other departments, allowing for interdisciplinary learning.

Practical Experience:

The MPA program integrates practical learning through options such as:

1. Internships: Students can undertake internships in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or international bodies to gain hands-on experience.
2. Co-op Program: Offers the opportunity to alternate between academic study and paid work terms, providing valuable professional experience in public administration.
3. Capstone Project: In the final stage of the program, students may complete a capstone project or research paper, applying their knowledge to real-world public administration issues.

Research and Thesis Option:

Students interested in research may choose to complete a Master’s Thesis, which involves in-depth research on a specific topic in public administration. This option is ideal for students pursuing academic or research careers.

Professional Development and Workshops:

In addition to the academic curriculum, the MPA program offers various workshops, seminars, and professional development opportunities that focus on leadership, negotiation, and communication skills essential for public service careers.

Program Milestones:

• First Year: Core courses and elective exploration.
• Second Year: Completion of advanced electives, capstone project, internship, or thesis.

For part-time students, the course load is adjusted to accommodate longer study periods.

For more detailed information on the program structure, visit the official page: UVic MPA Program Structure.

Fees and Funding

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at the University of Victoria offers competitive tuition rates, with various funding opportunities available to support students. Below is a breakdown of the fees and funding options:

Tuition Fees:

Tuition fees for the MPA program at UVic vary depending on whether you are a domestic or international student.

• Domestic Students: Approximately CAD 5,500 to 6,500 per year.
• International Students: Approximately CAD 8,000 to 10,000 per year.

The total tuition cost may vary depending on the number of courses taken per year and the specific structure of your study plan (full-time or part-time).

Additional Fees:

In addition to tuition, students should expect other fees, including:

• Student Society Fees
• Athletics and Recreation Fees
• Health and Dental Insurance

These fees generally range between CAD 1,000 to 2,000 per year.

Funding and Financial Aid:

UVic offers several avenues for funding, including scholarships, bursaries, and research assistantships. Below are some options:

1. Entrance Scholarships:

   • Available to incoming MPA students based on academic merit.
   • These scholarships vary in amount but can range from CAD 1,000 to CAD 10,000.

2. In-Course Scholarships:

   • Students who maintain high academic performance during their studies can apply for in-course scholarships.

3. Bursaries:

   • Need-based financial aid is available to both domestic and international students who demonstrate financial need.

4. Graduate Fellowships and Teaching Assistantships:

   • Students may be eligible for fellowships or work as teaching assistants (TAs) or research assistants (RAs), providing both financial support and valuable academic experience.
   • These positions can provide stipends ranging from CAD 5,000 to 12,000 per year.

5. External Scholarships and Funding:

   • Students are encouraged to apply for external funding opportunities, such as those from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), provincial awards, or other Canadian government programs.

6. Co-op Placements:

   • Students who participate in co-op placements can earn a salary while gaining work experience, which helps offset tuition costs.

Financial Aid and Student Loans:

• Canadian students can apply for government student loans and grants through their provincial loan programs.
• International students are encouraged to explore funding options available from their home countries or apply for scholarships targeted at international students.

For more detailed and up-to-date information, visit: UVic Graduate Tuition and Fees.

Scholarship Guidance

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at the University of Victoria offers various scholarships and funding options to support students throughout their studies. Below are some of the key scholarship opportunities available specifically for MPA students:

1. Entrance Scholarships:

• Awarded to incoming MPA students based on academic merit. These scholarships can range from CAD 1,000 to CAD 10,000.
• No separate application is required for these scholarships. All applicants are automatically considered during the admission process.

2. In-Course Scholarships:

• Available for students already enrolled in the MPA program who demonstrate high academic performance. These scholarships typically range from CAD 500 to CAD 5,000.

3. Graduate Fellowships:

• Graduate fellowships are awarded based on academic excellence and can range from CAD 3,000 to CAD 10,000. These fellowships are available both upon admission and throughout the duration of the program.

4. Teaching and Research Assistantships:

• MPA students can apply for teaching assistantships (TAs) or research assistantships (RAs), which provide a stipend and valuable work experience. Stipends generally range from CAD 5,000 to CAD 12,000 per year, depending on the position.

5. External Scholarships:

• Students are encouraged to apply for external funding opportunities such as:
  • Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) grants.
  • Canadian Government Scholarships.

6. Bursaries:

• Need-based bursaries are available to students who demonstrate financial need. Bursaries typically range from CAD 500 to CAD 2,000.

For more detailed information about scholarships, bursaries, and funding options, visit the official UVic page: UVic Financial Aid and Scholarships.

Admission Requirements

The admission requirements for the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at the University of Victoria are designed to assess both academic qualifications and relevant professional experience. Below is a summary of the key admission criteria:

1. Academic Qualifications:

• Undergraduate Degree: Applicants must have completed a four-year bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution.
• Minimum GPA: A minimum GPA of B (3.0/4.0) or equivalent in the last two years (30 units) of undergraduate study.

2. Professional Experience:

• While not mandatory, relevant work experience in the public sector, non-profit organizations, or related fields is an asset. Applicants with work experience often have an advantage during the admissions process.

3. English Language Proficiency (For International Applicants):

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7.0 with no individual component below 6.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum score of 100 on the Internet-based test (iBT).
• Other tests or proof of English proficiency may also be considered, but applicants must meet UVic's language requirements.

4. Statement of Intent:

• Applicants must submit a statement of intent outlining their academic and professional background, career goals, and reasons for pursuing the MPA program. This is an opportunity to showcase your interest in public administration and your long-term objectives.

5. Letters of Reference:

• Two letters of reference are required:
  • One academic reference from a professor or academic advisor familiar with your academic abilities.
  • One professional reference from an employer or colleague who can attest to your work experience and leadership skills.

6. Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV):

• Applicants should submit a current resume/CV that highlights their educational background, professional experience, volunteer work, and any other relevant accomplishments.

7. Additional Requirements (for some applicants):

• Applicants without a Public Administration background: In some cases, students without previous coursework in public administration or related fields may be required to complete additional preparatory courses to strengthen their foundational knowledge.
• Graduate Record Examinations (GRE): The GRE is generally not required for this program unless specifically requested by the admissions committee based on an applicant's academic history.

8. Application Deadlines:

• Fall Intake: The primary intake occurs in September, with application deadlines typically falling in early spring (around January to March).
• Check the program’s official website for exact dates.

9. Application Process:

• Submit your application online through the University of Victoria’s graduate application portal.
• Ensure that all required documents (transcripts, letters of reference, statement of intent, resume, and proof of English proficiency) are submitted before the deadline.

For more detailed and up-to-date information on admission requirements, visit the official page: UVic MPA Admission Requirements.

Application Procedure

To apply for the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at the University of Victoria, you need to follow these steps:

1. Prepare Required Documents:

• Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you have attended.
• Statement of Intent: A detailed statement outlining your academic and professional background, your reasons for applying to the MPA program, and your career goals.
• Letters of Reference: Two letters of reference, typically one academic and one professional.
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV): A current resume highlighting your education, work experience, and any relevant skills or accomplishments.
• Proof of English Language Proficiency (for international students): If English is not your first language, you must submit your IELTS or TOEFL scores. UVic requires an IELTS score of 7.0 overall or a TOEFL score of 100 (iBT).

2. Online Application:

• Apply online through the UVic Graduate Application System.
• Create an account and complete the application form, which includes personal information, academic history, and program-specific information.

3. Application Fee:

• A non-refundable application fee is required:
  • Domestic Students: CAD 132
  • International Students: CAD 172

4. Submit Documents:

• Upload all required documents (transcripts, resume, statement of intent, etc.) directly through the online application portal.

5. Track Application Status:

• After submission, you can track the status of your application through the online portal. UVic will notify you of any additional information or documents needed.

6. Application Deadlines:

• The Fall intake (September) is the primary intake for the MPA program.
• Application deadlines for the Fall term are typically in January or February. Check the specific deadline on UVic's website for the year you are applying.

7. Admission Decision:

• After reviewing your application, UVic will notify you of their admission decision. If accepted, you will receive instructions on how to confirm your spot, pay your tuition deposit, and register for classes.

For more detailed information and to apply, visit: UVic MPA Program Application.