Online Learning Success

Doctor of Public Administration (DPA)

Prepare for executive-level leadership or consulting roles in our Doctor of Public Administration (DPA) program.

You’re ready for what’s next. Shape the future of public policy and drive positive social change with a top-level degree. When you choose Walden’s online DPA program, you will:

  • Hone your leadership acumen: Use relevant theories and practices to analyze and apply ethical solutions to real-world public sector problems.
  • Develop 21st-century skills: Gain proficiency in evidence-based decision-making, basic grant writing, and data analytics.
  • Build cultural competency: Learn to better serve diverse populations using applied research and practice.

Fast Facts

Next Start Date: February 24, 2020

Transfer Credits: Up to 44 credits

Request Free Information

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Designed for students with a master’s degree or higher, Walden’s DPA program helps elevate your skills as a leader or consultant in government and nonprofit organizations. You will gain hands-on expertise through in-person residencies and master key competencies through courses such as:

  • Ethics and Social Justice
  • Public Policy and Finance
  • Leadership and Organizational Change
  • Research Theory, Design, and Methods
  • Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis

More about our DPA program

DPA is a distinctive credential that can competitively position you for roles such as:

  • Social and community services manager
  • Government affairs director
  • Mayor, city manager, county manager
  • Senior policy analyst
  • Executive director
  • Division chief

Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.

A master's degree or higher is required for entrance into this program. You will also be required to submit a completed online application, employment history, and official transcripts.

Your enrollment advisor will help you gather all of the required materials starting with your application all the way through your first day of classes.

Tuition costs will vary depending on your previous education. Get in touch with an enrollment advisor today at 855-203-5779, to learn more about tuition costs for this program and financial aid options.

Walden's enrollment advisors are committed to helping identify and leverage opportunities for you to save money on your education.
Our enrollment advisors are ready to answer any questions you may have regarding this program. Fill out the form on this page to be contacted or call 855-203-5779.

Why earn your DPA at Walden?

learn-with-leaders-small

Be a data warrior.

Master key skills in data-centric decision-making. Through coursework on applied analytics in the public sector, learn to define and drive measurable outcomes to help your organization or clients achieve their goals.

exceptional-student-services

Stand out from the crowd.

Demonstrate your advanced practical expertise—and boost your portfolio and résumé—by writing a professional consulting project for a government client during your DPA capstone.

relevant-small

Create change.

We not only teach; we empower. Prepare to solve real problems—and better the world around you—at a university dedicated to effecting positive change.

learn-with-leaders-small

Be a data warrior.

Master key skills in data-centric decision-making. Through coursework on applied analytics in the public sector, learn to define and drive measurable outcomes to help your organization or clients achieve their goals.

exceptional-student-services

Stand out from the crowd.

Demonstrate your advanced practical expertise—and boost your portfolio and résumé—by writing a professional consulting project for a government client during your DPA capstone.

relevant-small

Create change.

We not only teach; we empower. Prepare to solve real problems—and better the world around you—at a university dedicated to effecting positive change.

Kenisha

“I was inspired to pursue a degree with Walden because I was hoping to advance my career.”

Kennisha Minks | Master of Business Administration (MBA) Graduate & Doctor of Public Administration (DPA) Student

Note: The number of credits for completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate, call an enrollment advisor at 1-866-492-5336.