Friday, April 20, 2001

Wilmington – At its meeting April 12, the Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina approved the establishment of a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. Students will be able to enroll in the program starting fall semester 2001.

The MPA provides a broad professional education for individuals aspiring to management or policy positions in government and nonprofit agencies. The 42-credit hour program features common core courses in public management, policy analysis, computer applications, leadership, and an internship in a local government or nonprofit agency. In addition, the program features special concentrations in Coastal Town Management and Nonprofit Management.

To allow attendance by both full-time and working part-time students, the MPA

program will offer evening, weekend and on-line classes as well as full and part-time tracks of study.

The program offers a unique professional opportunity previously unavailable in the region for students with backgrounds in a variety of fields, including public affairs, criminal justice, environmental studies, social services, planning and health policy.

For more information, view the MPA website at www.uncwil.edu/mpa or contact

Dr. Tom Barth at 910-962-3385 or bartht@uncwil.edu. In addition, MPA faculty will host an open house at the Wise Alumni House (1713 Market St.) on from 6-8 p.m., Monday, May 14. All interested persons are invited to attend.