Online MBA in Public Administration and...

Through case studies, applied projects, and a curriculum rooted in ethics, equity, and social responsibility, our program equips students to navigate today’s most pressing public sector challenges. You’ll develop skills in organizational leadership, policy analysis, budgeting, program evaluation, and strategic planning, all essential for effective leadership in government agencies and mission-driven organizations.

In an era increasingly shaped by data and transparency, our MBA concentration emphasizes evidence-based decision-making. You’ll learn how to interpret and apply data to solve problems, track performance, and make informed choices in service of your community or organization’s mission. Located in the heart of the Silicon Valley Bay Area, NDNU offers unique access to one of the country’s most innovative regions, with strong connections to local governments, regional planning bodies, philanthropic organizations, and social enterprises. Whether you’re advancing your career or making a meaningful career pivot, the NDNU MBA with a Public Administration and Non-Profit Management concentration offers a supportive, flexible, and mission-centered path to leadership.

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Why the Public Administration and Non-Profit (PANP) Concentration?

Public administration and non-profit leadership are about more than running government agencies or overseeing charitable organizations—they’re about driving real change in communities, shaping public policy, and delivering services that improve lives. Whether you’re working in city government, managing a foundation, or leading a mission-driven non-profit, the field demands creative, strategic leaders who are passionate about impact.

Employment in public service and non-profit sectors continues to grow, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting steady demand for administrative services managers and policy analysts. Social and community service managers earned a median annual wage of $80,390 in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with higher earnings for senior executives, so the field offers both personal fulfillment and career stability. But beyond career prospects, this is a space where values meet action. What’s the best way to allocate limited city resources for maximum community benefit? How can non-profits remain financially sustainable while staying true to their missions? What role should local governments play in addressing homelessness or climate resilience? A career in public administration is a career devoted to answering questions that matter.

Admissions Information

To be admitted into the MBA program, students need to meet the following requirements:

1. A four-year bachelor’s degree or the equivalent from a regionally accredited institution
2. A cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or better
3. Two academic and/or professional recommendations
4. One or more courses in each of the foundation areas of accounting, economics, statistics, and math.

International students should also refer to the general graduate admission requirements.

Concentration Program Requirements (3 Units / 8-Week Courses)

BUS 4010 – Introduction to Public Administration (3)
Provides a conceptual foundation in public administration with an examination of the nature, scope, structures, functions, and challenges facing today’s public sector administrative professionals.

BUS 4016 – Contemporary Issues in Public Admin (3)
This course investigates contemporary issues in public administration with a focus on evaluating the effectiveness of governmental policies, processes, and policy management techniques. Includes an examination of the role of society in shaping public institutions and how these institutions influence and structure public policymaking and administration.

BUS 4020 – Community-Based Research/Analysis (3)
Students gain applied research skills to engage in research for the purpose of benefiting a community organization or addressing a public issue. Topics will survey various scientific methods of inquiry, methodology, and procedures for analyzing and interpreting data and presenting results to address a policy or community- specified need. (MPA Core)

Subject Matter Experts

Our instructors are highly qualified professionals from government and non-profit sectors, bringing expertise in strategic management, program development and assessment, operations and human resources management, IT, finance and accounting, grants management, community and public relations, administrative law, and advocacy.

Program Learning Outcomes

• Analyze, synthesize, think critically, solve problems, and make evidence-informed decisions.
• Articulate, apply, and advance a public service perspective in a complex and dynamic environment and in culturally responsive and Inclusive ways with a diverse and changing workforce and society at large.
• Participate / Lead / Manage in the Public Interest by contributing to the policy and program process.

State Authorization for Online Programs

The Department of Education requires that institutions offering online or distance learning programs outside of their home states must seek authorization to operate from regulatory bodies in those states. Each state has a different set of requirements when it comes to allowing out-of-state colleges and universities to offer online degree programs to its residents.

List of Authorized States