Cornell University

Graduate SchoolGraduate School

Graduate SchoolFields of Study

Executive Masters of Public Administration M.P.A. (Distance, Online, Low-residency, or Hybrid option)

Field of Study

Public Affairs

Program Description

The Executive Master of Public Administration (EMPA) program is an interdisciplinary, inter-sectoral degree designed for working professionals who want to enhance existing skills and advance their careers in the broad field of public affairs. Through an 18-month blended course of study taught by Cornell faculty, you will receive advanced training in strategic planning and management, economic and financial analysis, program evaluation, and project management.

Contact Information

Website: https://publicpolicy.cornell.edu/studying-at-brooks/masters-programs/cipa/empa/
Email: mpa@cornell.edu
Phone: 607-882-9573 or 607-330-3258

Concentrations by Subject

  • Public and Nonprofit Management

Tuition

Visit the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page.

Application Requirements and Deadlines

Application Deadlines:

Summer: Deadlines on the 15th of each month, opening September 15 and closing April 15. 

Requirements Summary:

  • Completed Cornell Graduate School application
  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or an equivalent international degree
  • Résumé demonstrating 8 years of professional experience. Applicants with fewer than 8 years may be considered if their experience is especially relevant and other qualifications are strong.
  • Unofficial transcript(s)
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Personal statement
  • Video interview
  • The English Language Proficiency Requirement for all applicants
  • GRE, GMAT, scores are not required

Learning Outcomes

The EMPA Program is designed to develop student competency in the following areas:

  • Communicating powerfully and managing effectively at the intersections of the public, private, and nonprofit sectors
  • Improving Policy and leading change in the face of complex problems that affect the lives and wellbeing of people in your community or around the world
  • Bringing strategic mindset and analytical skills to organizations and strategic partners to drive consequential impact on seemingly intractable policy challenges
  • Applying research and data to real-world problems and policy, translating research into practice, and conducting data-driven evaluation of the results and effectiveness of programs and policies