Accelerated Master of Public Administration (AMPA)
The Accelerated MPA is an exciting, fast-paced, full-time program for students ready to jumpstart their public service careers. Each August a cohort of motivated individuals joins this 12-month journey, building a strong community of scholar-practitioners. The structured cohort model ensures students stay on track together, focusing on an intensive, streamlined path to success.
Why AMPA?
- Competitive Program Cost
Ranked as the #1 Public Affairs School in Colorado and #28 nationally, AMPA has a flat tuition rate of $27,500, plus fees regardless of residency; major savings vs. other top U.S. programs. For scholarship questions contact spa.admissions@ucdenver.edu
- Career & Job Placement Focused
Built for career success, featuring a dedicated professional development course, curriculum integration, experiential learning, and direct engagement with professionals in the field
- MPA + Certificate Bonus
Earn not only a MPA degree but also a graduate certificate in either Nonprofit Management or Local Government—giving you an added edge in the job market
- Cohort Experience
Complete coursework alongside a close-knit group of domestic and international students, building lifelong friendships and professional connections.
- Flexible Schedule
Classes meet Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, allowing you to balance coursework with other commitments
- Location in the Heart of Denver
Downtown location near government and nonprofit hubs; views of the Rockies
Jumpstart your public service career in 12 months—apply to the Accelerated MPA now!
Request Information
Curriculum (36 - 39 credits)
- PUAD 5001 - Introduction to Public Administration and Public Service (3 credits)
- PUAD 5002 - Organizational Management and Behavior (3 credits)
- PUAD 5003 - Research and Analytic Methods (3 credits)
- PUAD 5004 - Economics and Public Finance (3 credits)
- PUAD 5005 - The Policy Process and Democracy (3 credits)
- PUAD 5006 - Public Service Leadership and Ethics (3 credits)
- PUAD 5008 - Evidence-Based Decision-Making (3 credits)
- 4 electives courses (12 total credits)
- PUAD 5361 - Capstone Seminar (3 credits)
- PUAD 6910 - Internship (3 credits)
- The internship may be waived for students with at least one year of public, nonprofit, or relevant private sector experience following the awarding of their bachelor’s degree.
Application Deadlines & How to Apply
Admission applications for the accelerated MPA are accepted for the fall term only.
- Domestic Preferred Deadline: March 15
- Domestic Final Deadline: August 1
For International Students and students applying through an MOU, please refer to our admissions page for deadline information.
View the admission and application requirements for the MPA. Applicants should select the “Accelerated Master of Public Administration” program option in the admission application.
Cost
| Residency Status | Cost |
| Colorado Residents, WGRP Residents, Peace Corps | $27,500 |
| Non-Colorado US Residents/Intl. | $27,500 |
| Out of State, Online Only | N/A |
Please note that employees of the University of Colorado are not able to apply tuition assistance benefit to the accelerated version of the MPA program.
Hear From Past Students
My experience with the School of Public Affairs has impacted me in two major ways. One, it afforded my access to a vast alumni network, especially for those in local government. These connections help me connect with colleagues, share ideas, and pass on knowledge. Two, the education provided by SPA set me up for success in a career in local government. Most of the work that I do is niche and learned by experience but not without a strong foundation built by SPA.
Tony Frank, LGV MPA ’97, Director of Business Development for PCs for People
My capstone project with Girls Inc. of Metro Denver opened my eyes to the impact of corporate partnerships in fundraising and community development. It sparked my ongoing work with corporate partners. I also appreciated how the AMPA program pushed me to explore new areas like accounting and negotiations that I hadn’t encountered in undergrad.
Kelli Bledsoe, Accelerated MPA ’19, Corporate Partnerships Advisor for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital