Master of Public Administration (MPA)

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at Suffolk University has a strong reputation for preparing graduates for employment in government and nonprofit sectors, with over 97% of graduates employed or continuing education within six months of graduation. The program offers a rich mix of professional experience, with graduates working in organisations as diverse as the US State Department, Massachusetts Department of Transportation, Boston Medical Center, and the Boys & Girls Club of Dorchester. The curriculum is designed to meet the needs of professionals seeking to advance in their careers or make a career change, with two tracks: Public Management and Health Policy and Administration.

The program is well-regarded for its emphasis on hands-on learning, with opportunities for students to engage in case studies, simulations, and field experiences. The university's location in Boston provides access to a wide range of government, nonprofit, and healthcare organisations, allowing students to gain practical experience and build professional networks. The program also offers a focus on sustainability and social justice, preparing graduates to address contemporary issues in public administration.

Students gain particular expertise in the program's signature areas of public policy, public finance, and health policy.

Suffolk University in Boston, founded in 1906, is a compact urban university serving about 6,315 students, including approximately 861 international learners. Located in the heart of a major global city, Suffolk leverages Boston’s vibrant professional landscape to provide abundant internship and networking opportunities with firms, courts, cultural organizations and startups. The university’s size supports close faculty-student interaction while offering the resources of a large metropolitan area.

Programs at Suffolk focus on preparing students for careers through experiential learning, internships and practical projects tied to local and international employers. Small class sizes foster mentorship and accessible advising, and the institution emphasizes career readiness, professional placement and applied learning across its offerings. International students benefit from tailored support services, visa guidance and orientation activities that help integrate academic and social life.

Campus life at Suffolk blends urban convenience with student-centered services: clubs, cultural events and career fairs are regularly held to connect learners with employers throughout Boston. For students seeking a professionally oriented education in a dynamic city environment, Suffolk offers a compact campus experience with strong ties to industry, practical learning pathways and a supportive framework for international scholars.