Mission

The mission of the MPA Program at the University of North Dakota is to prepare people to enter into or advance in government, nonprofit, or business careers in order to contribute to the advancement and well being of society.

Vision

The University of North Dakota strives to provide students with a broad public administration education, enhanced communication skills, outstanding analysis and decision-making skills, and a commitment to continually improve the quality of service provided to members of the community, thereby improving the quality of life. Graduates will have an understanding of the theories of management and the public context in which public administrators work. They will be able to apply those theories to improve the performance of public, non-profit, and/or business organizations and collaborate with others to best serve the public interest. Faculty will be a resource for local communities, the State of North Dakota and the community at large.

Objectives

1.   The University of North Dakota’s MPA Program is designed to develop and supplement the following in its students:

• Valuing professionalism in education, research, and professional activities;
• Communicating at high levels in writing and orally;
• Assuring a high quality performance on the job and in the classroom through the development of knowledge, skills, and abilities;
• Using critical thinking and analysis to aid in decision-making;
• Understanding of the public policy-making process;
• Developing qualities and characteristics necessary to assume positions of leadership;
• Understanding and adapting to changing political, economic, and social environments; and
• Understanding of the importance of integrity and dedication in carrying out the public trust.

2.   The University of North Dakota’s MPA program will assure that its faculty serves the students, our community, our state, and profession through presentations, service, and scholarship.