The University of Brighton Masters in Public Administration is a one-year course (full-time) that enables you to develop management, policy analysis and research skills that will support your future professional development. Our Masters in Public Administration MPA offers a contemporary and critical focus on major public policy and management issues in the post-financial crisis era.
This course runs every two years – apply now to begin your studies in September
Learn more about the course team and how their world-class research informs their teaching.
We have a fantastic Brighton MPA Alumni Network who have gone on to use the skills they developed through the MPA to pursue successful careers in the public, private and non-government organisation sectors. Find out more about their MPA stories and achievements.
You can find the latest teaching and MPA research news here.
You will explore public values approaches, the limits of marketisation, the changing role of the voluntary and non-government (NGO) sector, and how management and leadership are best defined and practised in public and voluntary services.
An optional work placement allows you to focus on a research project in a relevant agency, and the dissertation offers an opportunity to enhance your applied research skills and explore a specialist area of your choosing in a major piece of independent research.
Students with significant practice experience may be able to tailor the programme towards their own learning needs in consultation with the course leader.
Brighton & Hove is one of the most progressive cities in Europe, as shown by its influence on the Green political movement. The city offers a unique environment for learning about a critical approach to public service, with an extraordinary number of non-government organisations involved in campaigning and delivering public policy.
Our MPA teaching team have extensive practice and research expertise in applying complex systems and approaches to public policy and management. They work in close partnership with the university’s award-winning and internationally recognised Community University Partnership Programme (Cupp).Location Brighton: Falmer
Full-time 1 year
Part-time 2–3 years