McGeorge School of Law recently hosted a webinar highlighting its Master of Public Administration (MPA) and Master of Public Policy (MPP) programs. With a focus on real-world policy impact and career advancement, the session offered prospective students a close look at what makes these programs unique and insights into career pathways and the application process.
Dr. Marcie Paolinelli, Professor of Public Administration, emphasized the distinctiveness of McGeorge’s programs, saying, “We’re in a law school, and that makes us really unique. We were the first law school in the country to establish MPA and MPP programs within a law school setting.” This means students take law classes taught by law professors, including two core courses: Introduction to Legal Analysis and Statutes and Regulations. As Dr. Paolinelli explained, “Everything we do in the public sector is based on the rule of law. You have to know how laws are developed, how they’re written, how to interpret them, and how to use them.”
Small class sizes foster close interactions between students and faculty, creating a collaborative environment where peers learn from one another and develop lasting professional relationships. “We’re kind of a close-knit little family here,” she noted.
Flexible Learning for Working Professionals
Dr. Charles Kaye-Essien, Associate Professor of Public Policy, highlighted the program’s design for working professionals, offering multiple learning modalities. “We have Saturday classes, full online courses, and hybrid courses with practical assignments and semester-long projects,” he explained. These options allow students to fully engage in the program without compromising their careers. Concentrations provide additional depth, including public policy advocacy, environmental and water policy, nonprofit management, and the local government administration track. Faculty members bring real-world experience, many having worked in government or public service, which enriches the learning experience.
Career Outcomes: Real-World Impact
Career success is a core focus of the MPA and MPP programs. Dr. Paolinelli shared examples of graduates who started mid-level and have advanced to high-impact roles. One former personnel manager at the City of Sacramento now serves as the governor’s appointee for statewide workforce development. Another graduate moved from CAL FIRE to become Planning and Budgeting Program Manager for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission. Others have leveraged the program to transition into consulting firms or nonprofits.
McGeorge professors assist students in refining their expertise, restructuring their CVs, and identifying career opportunities that align with their ambitions. Whether working at the local or state level, in nonprofits, or in consultancies, graduates leave with practical skills and tangible experience.
Engaging with Research and Applied Projects
McGeorge encourages students to engage in research. During the webinar, examples were shared of students collaborating on policy analysis projects, including examining the impact of federal policy on nonprofits in the climate and sustainability sector. One student even presented her research at the American Society for Public Administration’s national conference, supported by a scholarship from the local chapter.
If you’d like to hear more about this initiative, check out our recent webinar, “A Front Row Seat to Systems Change,” which explores how the Transformational Change Partnership (TCP) is shaping behavioral health work in California.”
Diversity and Inclusion
The McGeorge MPA and MPP programs attract a wide range of students, from recent undergraduates to mid-career professionals and those seeking a career change. Dr. Paolinelli noted that this diversity enriches classroom discussions: “You’ll be amazed at the variety of experiences and backgrounds. You end up learning as much from your peers as from your professors.” Mature students bring depth and real-world insight that benefit the entire cohort.
MPP vs. MPA: Understanding the Difference and Applying
Prospective students often ask about the distinction between the MPP and MPA programs. Dr. Paolinelli explained, “The MPP focuses on analyzing problems that require public action, developing alternatives, and justifying recommended solutions. Courses in advanced policy analysis and quantitative methods give students the analytical edge needed for public policy roles.”
The MPA, by contrast, emphasizes management and leadership, preparing students to administer policies effectively. Local government, nonprofit management, and executive branch positions are common pathways, leading to a breadth of opportunities.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. To apply, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree (in any field), official transcripts from all colleges attended, a current resume or CV, a 2–3 page personal statement, and two letters of recommendation. Standardized test scores, such as the GRE, are not required. Applicants are encouraged to use the personal statement to share their background, motivations, and career goals — and to explain why McGeorge is the right fit for their professional path.
If you’re interested in learning more about the program and exploring whether it’s right for you, you can learn more here.