Public Administration (MPA)

Entry requirements

Normally a UK second class honours degree, or better, in any discipline or the equivalent of this for international students. Additionally, applicants should normally have gained at least 3 years’ relevant work experience in a supervisory or managerial position in the UK or Irish civil service.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Take the next step in your public service career with the Masters in Public Administration (MPA) at Ulster University — a professionally focused degree designed for managers, policy officers, and leaders across the public, voluntary, and community sectors.

This flexible MPA programme empowers professionals like you to enhance your leadership, governance, and strategic decision-making skills — all while continuing to work.

Why Ulster’s MPA degree stands out:

• Tailored for professionals in public administration, public policy, and governance
• Co-designed with NI civil service to fit around your career with part-time and block-release study options
• Taught by academic experts and senior practitioners with real-world public sector experience
• Internationally respected qualification backed by high-quality research

Information for international students

English Language Requirements

English language requirements for international applicants
The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.

Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.