The MPA Handbook is the primary resource for students and serves as their guide throughout their time in the program. It contains information about degree requirements, registration, academic policies, and program procedures, and students should consult the Handbook first when questions arise.
Advising begins with the MPA Orientation, which introduces incoming students to the Askew School and provides the information needed to begin the program successfully. Ongoing advising is shared among the Graduate Academic Program Specialist, the MPA Directors, and the faculty, each of whom supports students in a distinct capacity.
The Graduate Academic Program Specialist serves as the primary point of contact for questions regarding MPA program requirements, registration, graduate certificates, graduation, and related administrative matters. Students are encouraged to contact the Program Specialist during their first semester and before registering for classes each term. Students may reach the Program Specialist by email, visit the office during business hours, or schedule an appointment to meet in person.
Questions requiring more specialized guidance are referred to the MPA Directors, who make decisions regarding individual program requirements. The Directors will either respond directly or refer students to the appropriate faculty member for course-specific or career-related advising.
Faculty advising complements this administrative support. The Askew School has faculty specializing in many areas of public administration and policy, and they are an excellent resource throughout the program. Once students have identified their career interests or specialization, they are encouraged to connect with faculty whose expertise aligns with those interests.
These conversations may address electives, career pathways, research opportunities, and professional development. Faculty can provide valuable insight into current developments in the field and help students tailor their coursework to support their career goals. Students should also contact faculty directly with questions about courses taught by that faculty member.
Advising Form
Each time you meet with a faculty member for advice about your selection of courses you should bring an updated MPA Student Advising Form. It shows your program of study — what you have taken and what you plan to take as well as other information of importance. If you have not yet completed the form, then do so prior to your next meeting with an advisor. For subsequent advising sessions, obtain the form from your file in the program office, update it, and then give it to the Academic Program Specialist to be returned to your MPA file. It is essential that we have a current program of study, and this is used for the graduation check to ensure that requirements are met. The student should also retain a copy.
The most current version of the form will always be linked in the top menu bar or the sidebar of this website.