MPA Public Administration/MA Economics

The fields of public administration and economics are inextricably linked. Economists provide much of the theory and analytic foundation that administrators use to evaluate and implement policy. Given that the capital of Colorado is Denver, there is a great need for administrators that fully understand methods of program evaluation and have the theoretical background needed to forecast how individuals and institutions will respond to new proposals. Similarly, good theory and practice must take into account how the proposals will be implemented, and results interpreted. Both administrators and economists need to be engaged in constructive dialog in order to be fully effective.

The Dual Master of Public Administration/Master of Arts in Economics degree the opportunity to take the core courses of both programs and choose electives that best suit their career and personal goals. Electives in one program are allowed to count as an elective in the other. The net result is that while both degrees separately require 66 hours, the dual degree program provides a more comprehensive and effective education in 48 hours or 73 percent of the dual degree total.

Admission

Students interested in pursuing the dual-degree program must apply to and be admitted to each of the programs. Students admitted to one program may choose to apply to the other program at a later date. Learn more about how to apply to the Master of Public Administration portion of the dual degree.