Keiser University’s Doctor of Public Administration (DPA) program is designed for public and nonprofit professionals who want to be “pracademics.” Our program connects theory with real-world application. Every course is taught by faculty with deep field experience in federal, state, and local government, law enforcement, education, health care, nonprofit management, and policy. Mentorship and hands-on projects prepare you for teaching, consulting, and accelerated advancement in your sector.
Up to 18 transfer credits accepted
Time to degree completion is an estimate, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors
Public service and leadership roles — city manager, policy advisor, nonprofit executive — in government, nonprofit, and community organizations — consultant, strategist, advocate, educator, and more.
Online
Financial aid for those who qualify**
** Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all your financial aid and funding options.
* Time to degree completion is an estimate, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors.
The Doctor of Public Administration program emphasizes:
Keiser University’s Doctor of Public Administration prepares public administration professionals to effectively lead and manage the complexities of governance and public policy in diverse and dynamic environments. Committed to a “students first” philosophy and a culture of lifelong learning, the Doctor of Public Administration program equips graduates with advanced knowledge, critical thinking skills, and research expertise to become transformative leaders in various public sector and non-profit settings. Graduates will be empowered to address the challenges faced by communities and organizations they serve, fostering innovation, ethical governance, and public trust.
At Keiser University, our “Students First” philosophy means your success is our top priority throughout your educational journey. Whether you’re pursuing a doctorate in public administration or another graduate degree, we’re committed to providing the support, flexibility, and resources you need to excel. That’s why our online format is designed to fit your schedule—so you can elevate your public service career without putting your life on hold.
Through our DPA program, we help position students to lead at the highest levels in public administration, policy, and nonprofit leadership.
The doctorate degree in public administration is designed for current and aspiring public service professionals who are ready to elevate their careers in government, nonprofit leadership, and public policy. Graduates of the Doctor of Public Administration program are prepared to lead with integrity, drive innovation, and make a lasting impact in the communities and organizations they serve.
Keiser University’s Doctor of Public Administration program empowers you to lead with purpose, think critically, and create real impact in public and nonprofit sectors. With a focus on leadership, research, and policy innovation, this program helps you build the tools to drive change where it matters most. Upon completion, you will have had the opportunity to:
Applicants to the Doctor of Public Administration program must have a relevant master’s or doctoral degree from an accredited institution and a minimum of three years of professional experience in a public service-related field.
To receive a Doctor of Public Administration (DPA), students must earn a minimum of 44 graduate semester credit hours as described below. The length of this program is approximately 24-36 months, depending on a part-time or full-time course schedule.
Upper Division Courses
| Foundation Courses (18 credit hours) | |
|---|---|
| Advanced Foundations and Applied Theories of Public Policy & Administration | 3.0 credit hours |
| Leadership and Change Management in Public Administration | 3.0 credit hours |
| Public Sector Budgeting and Financial Decision Making | 3.0 credit hours |
| Multi-Sector Governance and Intergovernmental Relations | 3.0 credit hours |
| Transparency, Ethics, and Public Accountability | 3.0 credit hours |
| Public Policy Analysis and Program Evaluation | 3.0 credit hours |
| Research Courses (9 credit hours) | |
|---|---|
| Advanced Research Methods | 3.0 credit hours |
| Quantitative Research I | 3.0 credit hours |
| Qualitative Research | 3.0 credit hours |
| Applied Doctoral Project Courses (8 credit hours) | |
|---|---|
| Applied Doctoral Project | 8 credit hours (4 courses at 2 credits each) |
Residency Note: Doctoral students must complete one Doctoral Residency prior to Applied Doctoral Project Courses.
From city hall to community organizations, this doctorate in public administration program prepares you for impactful leadership in public service. Gain the advanced skills needed to lead agencies, shape policy, and drive innovation in complex public and nonprofit environments.
Keiser’s doctorate degree in public administration program equips you with expertise in:
Combined with your professional experience and the program’s practical focus, you’ll be prepared for leadership roles such as:
Public Sector Leadership
Policy & Research Roles
Academic & Training Roles
Have you been searching for the perfect educational partner for your doctorate degree in public administration? You found it. Keiser University has the doctoral program you need to elevate your career! Finish faster and advance in the workforce sooner with our DPA program! Learn more about our Doctor of Public Administration program today by Requesting More Info now!
We understand that today’s students have many responsibilities and obligations in their lives. At Keiser, we deliver the same quality education through different scheduling options to accommodate busy schedules. Whether you choose day, evening, or online classes, chances are, you will find a schedule that fits yours and allows you to fulfill one of the most important commitments you can make – a commitment to your education.
