Master of Public Policy and Administration
Frequently Asked Questions: Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA)
Most MPPA students complete the program within two years, but students can take up to seven years to finish.
Yes, you can complete the MPPA degree as a part-time or full-time student. We recommend that part-time students take no more than two courses per term if they are balancing a full-time job or other responsibilities.
You have three options for completing your MPPA: in person at our Thousand Oaks location, online at your convenience or a combination of both.
Most students devote, on average, 10 hours per week to each course. Students usually take one or two courses per term.
The Master of Public Policy and Administration blends aspects of both a Master of Public Administration (MPA) and a Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree, merging the strategic, analytical focus of public policy with the operational and managerial aspects of public administration. The result is a degree for professionals who want to be adept at both shaping and implementing policies in a wide range of public service areas.
Students in Cal Lutheran’s MPPA program gain expertise in areas such as public administration theory, public policy implementation, research methods, law and ethical leadership. The degree is ideal for those seeking a career involving both the development and management of public policy.
Yes, there are many opportunities for you to take part in experiential learning outside the classroom. Some options include:
- The Sacramento Policy Institute sends MPPA students to Sacramento for extended firsthand observation and interaction with the institutions and influences working to develop California state policy.
- The ICMA Student Chapter introduces students to career pathways in local government and helps prepare them for successful careers. It provides networking opportunities with professionals and other students interested in public service, connects students with alumni working in government and shares resources for internships and fellowships. This chapter is part of ICMA, the premier association for local government, and offers additional resources and opportunities for professional development.
- Students who enter the MPPA degree with less than two years of experience in the public or nonprofit sector are required to complete an internship in public administration. This typically involves at least 100 hours of supervised work experience at an approved site.
The School of Management offers a variety of events and career services to students. Here are some of those opportunities:
- Networking Events: The School of Management hosts several events throughout the year where students can interact with business and community leaders. These include the Entrepreneur Speaker Series, PRiME Competition, New Venture Competition, ACG Cup and more.
- Career Services: The Cal Lutheran Career Services center supports students in planning for their careers and pursuing their purposes. The center posts more than 200 job and internship postings each week and has more than 20,000 employers contacts. They also offer events and on-demand tools for career mapping, interview preparation and more.
- HUB 101: This is a coworking and incubation space for the regional startup community. It offers classes, seminars, speakers and office space all within an environment that fosters networking and creative enterprise.
The School of Management also has collaborative relationships with many local associations. These include the Association for Corporate Growth (a hub for the city’s business community); the Los Angeles Venture Association (Southern California’s premier forum for entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, angel investors and professional advisors); and the Economic Development Collaborative of Ventura County.
You can find out about some of our career-building activities in our “What Can You Do With a Public Policy and Administration Degree?” section.
Yes, Cal Lutheran offers a variety of funding options from internal and external sources. These include:
- Scholarships
- Grants
- Credit reductions
- Veterans benefits
- Employer discounts
Cal Lutheran being designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) signifies that we meet specific criteria set by the U.S. Department of Education, primarily that at least 25% of our full-time undergraduate student population identifies as Hispanic or Latino.
Being an HSI reflects Cal Lutheran’s broader commitment to diversity and community engagement. We offer a wide range of resources and opportunities, including scholarships, mentorship programs and courses that celebrate Hispanic cultures and heritage. We believe in creating a supportive space where students from all backgrounds can thrive and make lasting connections.
Cal Lutheran warmly welcomes individuals of all faiths and belief systems. Our inclusive community does not require affiliation with any church, religion or religious organization. We embrace diversity in all walks of life, so that every member of our community feels valued and respected.
We’re happy to help. You can talk to a graduate enrollment specialist via phone at 805-521-9856. You can also email your questions to somgradprograms@callutheran.edu.
Request Information
To learn more about the Graduate Degree Programs offered by the Cal Lutheran School of Management and download a brochure, please fill out the form. You can also get in touch with an enrollment specialist directly by calling us at 805-521-9856.
