Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

When you enroll in Walden University's Master of Public Administration program (MPA) with a specialization in International Nongovernmental Organizations (NGOs), you'll have the opportunity to learn how organizations function as well as the ways in which policies are created and implemented. The program is designed to help you understand concepts such as organizational behaviors and the legalities of nonprofit and government organizations. The specialization emphasizes topics such as cross-cultural communications and ethics. Throughout the program, you'll examine the roles of international nongovernmental organizations around the globe. Finance, human resource management, and research are also topics of study.

What Are the Prerequisites?

You should hold a bachelor's degree or higher and possess leadership qualities and a desire to work for the public good. Applicants to Walden University's programs may need to complete additional requirements for some programs.

What Are the Course Requirements?

To earn this degree, you must complete 61 quarter credits, which consist of 40 credits of core courses, 15 credits of specialization courses, a one-credit foundation course and a five-credit capstone. Estimated time to completion is less than two years. Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable.

Course Requirements

Core Courses

• 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

Specialization Courses

• Holding Up the Mirror: Understanding Different Cultures and Increasing Global Consciousness
• Crossing Borders: U.S. and International NGO Cultures and Environments
• Placing NGOs in the Global Context
• Capstone Seminar

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Options

As a graduate of this program, you may be prepared to pursue several job opportunities, such as:

• Director of a nongovernmental organization
• Government relations officer
• Planning director
• Program manager
• Management analyst

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

Advanced Degrees

You can further develop the necessary skills for work in nongovernmental and not-for-profit organizations by obtaining a doctorate. In fact, such an advanced degree may be required if you would like to forge a successful career in international development. Degrees listed are not institution-specific but constitute a sampling of continuing education options for graduates. Degrees you could pursue include:

• Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration with a concentration in International Nongovernmental Organizations
• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Public and International Affairs