Overview

This degree program merges the accelerated online Master of Public Administration (MPA) with either the Ocean Policy and Science Graduate Certificate or the Ocean Science Graduate Certificate. This program will provide students with up-to-date knowledge in ocean sciences, public management, and/or policy analysis.

Designed for students interested in entering or advancing in public service-related management careers, or developing policy analysis skills that can be used to shape public policy, this program leads to an MPA degree conferred by the University of Rhode Island. This program helps professionals advance their skill sets for a variety of ocean-related career positions such as:

• Federal, State, and Local Agency Management
• Nonprofit Management and Advocacy
• Policy Analysis
• Financial Management
• Municipal Planning
• Program Management
• Contract Specialist
• Grant Writer

Courses

Students pursuing this MPA degree can choose one of two tracks:
Blue Public Management or Blue Policy Analysis

Tuition per credit based on 2024/2025 academic year rates (subject to change): $887

Admissions

• Bachelor’s degree
• Bachelor’s degree in natural sciences, engineering, or a similar field (STEM)
• Personal statement
• Online interview
• GRE NOT REQUIRED

*Applicants with a GPA lower than 3.0 may be considered for provisional admission — please contact online@uri.edu before applying to discuss the GPA requirement.