The UNC-CH MPA program seeks individuals with a passion for public service and the desire to be a leader.

Our applicants come from a variety of diverse backgrounds and interest areas and encompass all areas of academic study.

“If you truly want to be a public servant and make a positive change, an MPA will give you the know-how to lead not just effectively, but ethically and equitably too.”

Adrienne Augustus
UNC MPA Alumnus

Ready, Set, Apply

UNC-CH MPA offers one degree in two formats: a full-time, two-year, on-campus program and a flexible online program for full-time or part-time students

Step 1: Choose your format

On Campus

The on-campus MPA is a full-time program that begins in the fall. Students complete 45 credit hours—typically in two years or three years for a dual degree. As a cohort, you attend classes in person on campus, usually Monday through Thursday during the day.

Online

The online MPA serves working professionals. Students can pursue the degree part-time or full-time and attend evening classes. They typically take two courses per semester. Each course includes one 90-minute, on-camera class session per week with classmates and the instructor, along with additional coursework.

Step 2: Select your start date

On Campus

One start time per year: Fall only

  • Fall 2027 Application Available:  August 3, 2026
Application Deadlines

Fall 2027

Priority Deadline January 1, 2027

Final Deadline January 12, 2027

Online

Two start times per year: 
Fall and Spring

  • Spring 2027 Application cycle: Application Available:  August 3, 2026
  • Fall 2027 Application cycle: Application Available:  August 3, 2026
Application Deadlines

Spring 2027

Priority Deadline September 22, 2026

Final Deadline October 13, 2026

Fall 2027

Priority Deadline April 20, 2027

Final Deadline May 11, 2027

Application Requirements

To apply for admission, submit the following materials. Both the online and on-campus formats require the same application materials.

Application

(including $95 application fee)

Application fee waiver requests are available for select applicants. For more information, visit the UNC Graduate School Application Fee Waiver page.

Current Résumé or CV

Statement of Purpose

In one to two pages, respond to the question, “Why do you want to earn an MPA from UNC-Chapel Hill?” In your statement, address the following:

  • Experiences that have led you to consider a public service career
  • Why the UNC-Chapel Hill MPA program would be a good fit for you
  • Your professional goals

Unofficial Transcripts

Upload an unofficial transcript from every college or university you attended with your application. However, you do not need to submit official transcripts until after you receive an admission offer and enroll.

Additionally, international applicants should have ECE or WES evaluation their international transcripts to determine U.S. degree equivalency and calculate a grade point average.

Three Letters of Recommendation

Choose recommenders who know your academic and professional achievements well. Their letters should describe your potential to succeed in this academic setting.

In addition, if you graduated within the past five years, include at least one academic reference.

Official Standardized Test Scores (optional)

If your application materials do not fully reflect your academic potential, consider submitting an official score report from a graduate entrance exam, such as the GRE, LSAT, or GMAT. The admissions committee especially recommends this option for applicants with cumulative GPAs below 3.3, although any applicant may submit official exam scores for consideration. Please submit scores earned within the past five years.

To ensure we receive your scores, send your official score report to Institution Code #5816.

TOEFL or IELTS Scores for non-native English speakers

For more information, visit the UNC Graduate School website for international student admissions.

Potential Interview

After the UNC-Chapel Hill MPA Admissions Committee completes its preliminary review, it will contact selected applicants to schedule an interview. The committee conducts all interviews via Zoom.

Upcoming Admissions Events

October 01, 2026

Join us for a UNC MPA General Information Session to learn more about our program, including our…

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July 09, 2026

Join us for a UNC MPA General Information Session to learn more about our program, including our…

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June 02, 2026

Join us for our UNC MPA General Information Session to learn more about our program including our…

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April 28, 2026

Thinking about applying, or already started your application? Join our MPA Application Drop‑In…

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