Developing an MPA Core Curriculum: The Importance of NASPAA Standards and Benchmarking
Dr. Robert K. Postic
Journal of Education and Human Development, 1(1), pp. 13-21.

Abstract
With increasing emphasis being placed on preparing students for the marketplace, it is extremely important that universities develop Master in Public Administration (MPA) programs that both cover the essential components of the discipline as well as address the wishes of employers. Balancing those twin goals while providing a program that attracts students can be challenging. Fortunately, there are two accessible sources that universities can turn to for help. The first is the concept of best practices or benchmarking. By examining how other successful universities structure their programs, universities who are considering their own program can gain insights into what courses they should be offering and what approaches they should be using. Additionally, external accrediting institutions offer guidance. In this paper, I examine 14 MPA in Michigan and Ohio as well as consider the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA) and its standards in an attempt to suggest what a core MPA degree should look like. I suggest that an MPA core curriculum that is well thought out and structured will be able to meet the needs of the students, employers, and the university.

Full Text: PDF

Postic, K. Dr. Robert. (2012). Developing an MPA Core Curriculum: The Importance of NASPAA Standards and Benchmarking. Journal of Education and Human Development, 1(1), pp. 13-21.

Commission on Peer Review and Accreditation.2008. “General Information and Standards for Professional Masters Degree Programs.” National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration.

Lee, Roy. 2006. “Do NASPAA Standards for Accreditation Matter? Perceptions of Executive Directors in the State of Texas?” Masters Thesis. Texas State University.

Dr. Robert Postic is an Assistant Professor of Political Science and Chair of the Social, Behavioral, and Justices Sciences Department at The University of Findlay. He is also the interim program director of a team that is exploring the possibility of adding a Master’s of Public Administration degree at the university. In addition, Dr. Postic has an extensive teaching background, having taught for more than 18 years at the secondary and post-secondary levels.

Dr. Postic has presented research at numerous conferences and holds membership with the American Political Science Association and the Midwest Political Science Association. He holds a B.A. from Calvin College, an M.A. from Fuller Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. from Wayne State University. His current research is quite broad examining issues of pedagogy, curriculum development, and public opinion.