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Coursework
Executive MPA at
CU Denver
Advance Your Leadership in Public Service
Flexible course options and in-person intensives
Hybrid and online courses coupled with in-person intensives with other executive-level professionals.
- Introduction to Public Service (intensive cohort-based class; four-day face-to-face component).
- Organizational Management & Behavior (intensive cohort-based class; four-day face-to-face component).
As the #1 public administration program in Colorado, CU Denver’s Executive Master of Public Administration (MPA) program helps professionals build connections and transform their management and leadership practices to increase their impact.
Program Highlights
Core courses prepare students to enhance their management and leadership skills in government and nonprofit organizations.
Tailored to your interests through electives and capstone.
Designed for maximum flexibility for your busy schedule – evening, weekend intensive and online classes.
CREDIT HOURS
30
COURSE DURATION
2.5 years on average
START DATES
Fall, Spring, Summer
Strong Networking Opportunities
Students have the opportunity to connect with peers who are also established professionals across various sectors.
Focus on Leadership and Management Skills
The program emphasizes the development of key leadership and management competencies.
The Executive MPA is designed for mid- to senior-level professionals seeking to advance their careers and drive meaningful change in the public and nonprofit sectors. Students have at least 5 to 10 years of cumulative experience with public or non-profit organizations and at least three years of middle-to-upper-level managerial experience. Expand your network through in-person opportunities while enjoying the flexibility of completing most coursework online.
Diverse Faculty Expertise
Students learn from renowned faculty members with practical experience and actively contribute to impactful research.
Reduced credit load
Professional experience at this level counts for two courses, allowing students to complete the program faster.
Highly Ranked
CU Denver’s MPA program is nationally recognized, ranking #26 among public affairs programs in the U.S. and #1 in Colorado.
Hear from Our Students & Alumni
What do students have to say about CU Denver's MPA program? Get a glimpse of their experiences, hear what they think about our faculty and curriculum, and discover how business education is impacting people just like you.
The three years I spent in the MPA program helped me to increase my empathy and see the world in a broader perspective.
Jeremiah Unger
Executive MPA ’23
Environmental Program Manager at Colorado Department of Transportation
After looking at a dozen different programs, I chose the Executive MPA program at CU-Denver because of its compelling courses and the way it fit my needs as a working professional and new father. I appreciate the flexibility and mix of online and in person options, as well as the diversity of community leaders in the classroom.
Daniel Viehland
Executive MPA Student
COURSES
10 (reduced based on experience)
- Rocky Mountain Leadership Program (weeklong face-to-face leadership course in Breckenridge, Colorado).
- 3 additional core classes and 3 additional electives, which may be taken in face-to-face or online formats.
The program included useful, relevant information I was able to apply to my work immediately. The other cohort members were another asset to the learning from the brilliant presenters. Overall, a truly exceptional program! I learned so much, even with a 25-year career in the nonprofit sector.
Dolores G.
Membership Director, National Non-profit Organization
- Capstone Project or Thesis.