In 1974, Kansas University established the Public Management Center (PMC) in Topeka and began offering a Master in Public Administration (MPA) degree tailored to fit the needs and interests of the workforce and citizens of our State Capitol.
The PMC MPA program represents a unique teaming of faculty/staff from KU's main campus and PMC faculty/staff to offer a curriculum that is both practical and ground in theory.

Beverly Vogel,
MPA Admissions
and Support
Most PMC MPA students are full-time, mid-career government or non-profit employees. They tend to be experienced, busy, highly-motivated and accomplished people. While some may graduate sooner, it generally takes four to five years to earn the MPA degree while working full time and meeting other obligations.
The KU Public Management Program consistently ranks among the nation's top 10 graduate level public programs in the areas of city management and urban policy, public management, and public affairs.
PMC's MPA graduates have found these benefits:
Career Option
By far the most common choice for PMC students, the PMC tailors its Career Option to students working in the fields of their choice, have some public administration experience, and believe their degree will enhance their careers. Career option students bring considerable experience into the classroom from state offices, police and fire departments, health and human services departments, budget offices, and nonprofit agencies. Course work entails:Internship Option
The Internship Option is a full-time program for students who have little or no public administration experience and plan to become city or county administrators. Course work entails:
Students begin the option by taking two summer courses, four fall courses, and four spring courses. Students complete course work during one calendar year. In the second year, the student works full-time in a salaried position in state or local government.
Do I have to take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE)?
The GRE (or other examination) is frequently waived for applicants who have either completed another graduate degree, or have a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and five years of work experience with increasing responsibilities. Those students who do not meet these qualifications may be required to take the GRE.
In either case, early contact should be made with Bev Vogel to ensure proper handling of the GRE and other admission details.
When are Topeka MPA courses offered?
The Topeka MPA Program is designed to accommodate those who work full-time. Classes are offered in the evening, usually beginning at 4:30 pm or 5:00 pm.
Can I obtain an MPA degree by attending classes only in Topeka?
Efforts are made to ensure that a student could graduate in 3 years by taking classes only in Topeka. However, students are welcome to take classes at all three campuses: the PMC in Topeka, the main KU campus in Lawrence, and the Edwards Campus in Overland Park.
How long will it take to obtain my degree?
The average time for career option students is three years. The graduate school allows seven years for degree completion.
Is financial aid available?
For information on financial aid, contact the KU Office of Student Financial Aid: e-mail osfa@ku.edu or call 785-286-4700.
For more information or to discuss admission to the PMC MPA Program contact:
Beverly Vogel
KU Public Management Center
712 SW 10th Street
Topeka, Kansas 66612
(785) 296-2353
bvogel@ku.edu
Mail
The University of Kansas
Public Management Center
715 SW 10th Street
Topeka, Kansas 66612
Phone
785-296-2353
Fax
785-296-2580
Email
bvogel@ku.edu
TDD
800-766-3777
The Public Management Center is located on 10th Street, about one quarter mile west of the Statehouse and directly across the street from Topeka High School.
Last modified August 28 2007 12:27 pm Valid XHTML