Doctor of Public Administration (DPA)

Program Overview

The University of La Verne's Doctor of Public Administration (DPA) program equips professionals with the knowledge and skills to become exceptional leaders in public administration, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies. Through a rigorous curriculum and experienced faculty, the program emphasizes practical application, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making, preparing graduates for senior-level careers in various sectors.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Program description: The University of La Verne’s Doctor of Public Administration (DPA) program prepares students with five or more years of work experience to become the next generation of outstanding leaders and professionals.
• Program objective: The program aims to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills to address complex organizational and business problems, assess and set public policy, develop and evaluate programs, understand economic perspectives in policy analysis, collaborate effectively, and make ethical decisions.
• Target audience: Professionals seeking to advance their careers in public administration, nonprofit organizations, municipal government, or quasi-governmental agencies.

Outline:

• Program length: 4-8 years
• Units: 56
• Structure: Students take three classes per term for three years, with classes taking place on Saturdays.
The third year focuses on individual research, and subsequent years are dedicated to dissertation development.
• Curriculum: The curriculum includes state-of-the-art management courses emphasizing creativity, leadership, values, and the ability to anticipate and manage change in the workplace.
• Modules: The program covers various topics such as critical thinking, public policy, program evaluation, organizational development, urban and governance theory, economic perspectives, collaboration, and ethical decision-making.

Assessment:

• Assessment methods: The program uses various methods to assess student learning, including individual assignments, class participation, group projects, and a dissertation.
• Assessment criteria: Students are evaluated based on their ability to demonstrate critical thinking, analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and research proficiency.

Teaching:

• Teaching methods: The program employs various teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, case studies, simulations, and guest speakers.
• Faculty: The program features faculty with relevant expertise and experience in public administration.
• Unique approaches: The program emphasizes practical application and real-world problem-solving.

Careers:

• Career paths: DPA graduates pursue careers as senior-level practitioners in various sectors, including academia, nonprofits, civil service, local, state, and federal government.
• Career opportunities: Possible job titles include human resources director, executive director, budget analyst, research director, professor, policy analyst, city manager, chief of police/fire, hospital administrator, and senior utility executive.

Other:

• Start terms: Fall I
• Location: Ontario, CA
• Cost: $1235 per unit
The program’s curriculum, faculty, and teaching methods prepare graduates to make a significant impact in various sectors and contribute to positive change in society.