MPA Curriculum and Structure
The Truman School offers innovative coursework and hands-on experiences that provide the knowledge and skills needed for successful careers in the public, nonprofit, and private sectors. Five professional specializations complement a rigorous set of core courses. This combination ensures that Truman School graduates are well prepared for leadership roles in today's public service.
The Truman School MPA program can be completed in two years. For students without significant public service work experience, the MPA program requires 45 semester hours of graduate course work as follows:
Hours
| MPA Core | 27 semester hours |
| Area of Specialization | 9 semester hours |
| Electives | 6 semester hours |
| Internship | 3 semester hours |
| For a total of | 45 semester hours |
Students with significant public service experience may have the internship waived, making the MPA program 42 hours for them.
Mid-Career Option
In-service professionals with a minimum of three to five years of progressively responsible experience may select the Truman School's
Mid-Career MPA program, which is offered in Jefferson City, Missouri's state capital.