Application Deadlines

Applications to the MPA program will be considered on a continuous basis. A general time line for timely admissions decisions is for applicants to have all materials to the UNCW Graduate School no later than June 15 for Fall admissions and no later than December 1 for Spring admissions.

NOTE: Applications after these dates may be considered as space allows.

Review of fall applications begins on March 15 and review of spring applications begins on October 15.  Applicants interested in graduate assistantships and scholarships should apply by such deadlines for full consideration.

Students desiring admission into the MPA program must present the following:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, or its equivalent from a foreign institution of higher education based on a four-year program;
• A strong academic record (an average GPA of 3.0 or better is desirable in an undergraduate program).
• Academic potential as indicated by satisfactory performance on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test (A combined quantitative and verbal score on the GRE of 1000 is ideal.). The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) may be substituted.
• Three recommendations from individuals who are in a position to evaluate the student’s professional competence as well as potential for graduate study (ideally at least one reference should be an academic instructor).
• A personal statement describing educational and professional experiences, their reasons for pursuing graduate study in public administration, and career goals.
• A resume describing work history and professional experiences.
• A professional or academic writing sample.

Admission Requirements

Application for admission is made by submitting application materials to the Graduate School at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.

The following materials must be submitted to the Graduate School Admission Office:

1. Graduate School Application

2. Official transcripts from all universities attended

3. Three recommendations

4. GRE or GMAT scores

5. International students: TOEFL score of 550 or higher

6. A completed “Personal Statement of Professional Goals” form.

7. Academic or Professional Writing Sample (max 25 pages)

8. Resume

Click here to begin the application process.

MPA Program Student Handbook

For more information visit the UNCW Graduate School web page at: www.uncw.edu/grad_info or you may contact the graduate school at 910.962.4117.

Important Numbers:
Wanda Underwood, Graduate School Administrator - 910.962.3866
Kimberly Goerne, Graduate Admission Specialist – 910.962.7449
Testing Center - 910.962.7444
Financial Aid - 910.962.3177