Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Walden University's Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) with a specialization in Health Policy is an online program designed to prepare current administrative professionals for leadership in public healthcare organizations. The M.P.A. with a specialization in Health Policy is offered in a course-based format with a prescribed sequence. The interdisciplinary curriculum presents foundational public administration theories, policy analysis, and budgetary practices in the public sector. Coursework focuses on public administration from a number of angles, and includes finance, ethical leadership, economic initiatives, and management issues. Students will learn about team building and retention, and the importance of collaborative strategic planning in public organizations. Specialization coursework provides an introduction to the complexities of public health, with a focus on healthcare systems, management, and delivery; and advocacy, professional leadership, and social justice. Students also explore the role of legal issues, governmental involvement, bioterrorism, and disaster management in public health.

What Are the Prerequisites?

The program is designed for administrative professionals. Candidates should have a bachelor's degree. Applicants to Walden University's programs should be at least 24 years old and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent; applicants may need to complete additional requirements for some programs.

What Are the Course Requirements?

Degree program curriculum and credits are subject to change, and you should contact Walden University for the most current information before enrolling in a program. The Walden University Master of Public Administration with a specialization in Health Policy incorporates 66 credit hours. Some of the required courses are listed below.

Course Requirements

• Introduction to Public Administration
• Foundations for Graduate Study
• Ethics and Social Justice
• Organizational Management and Leadership
• Finance and Budgeting for the Public Sector
• Human Resource Management: Building a Capable Workforce
• Public Sector Economics
• Strategic Planning: Collaboration, Cooperation, and Coordination
• Public Policy Analysis
• Applied Research and Evaluation Methods
• Health Policy and Management
• Legal and Regulatory Aspects of Public Health
• Leadership, Professionalism, and Ethics in Public Health Practice
• Capstone Seminar

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of Walden University's Master of Public Administration with a specialization in Health Policy have the opportunity to prepare for careers in public policy management, administration, or consulting.

Positions that graduates may seek include:

• Public health advocacy
• Public health policy analyst
• Program officer
• Public health policy administrator
• Public affairs
• Government relations

Advanced Degrees

In addition to seeking public sector management positions, graduates of Walden University's Master of Public Administration with a specialization in Health Policy may choose to pursue advanced education. Earning a doctoral degree in public health administration or a related field may prepare you for positions in government organizations, public health administration and policy, or research.

Degrees listed are not institution-specific but constitute a sampling of continuing education options for graduates. Degrees you could pursue include:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Public Health Administration
• Doctor of Nonprofit Management and Leadership
• Doctor of Philosophy in Public Affairs
• Doctor of Public Policy

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org.