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Master of Public Administration (MPA) – Intensive One-Year Programme

Study load:

Full- time

Duration:

1 Year (02 Semesters)

Mode:

Online

Credit:

Minimum of 30 credits

SLQF:

09

Intakes:

Feb, Jun, Oct
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OVERVIEW

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) is designed to develop competent public sector leaders, administrators, policymakers, and development practitioners capable of addressing contemporary governance challenges. The programme integrates administrative theory, strategic leadership, financial management, project implementation, public procurement, digital governance, and research competencies required for effective public service delivery and sustainable national development.

Who Is This Programme For?

This programme is ideally suited for:

  • Government and Public Sector Officers
    Public servants and officers in ministries, departments, and local government authorities aiming to advance into senior administrative, managerial, and policy-making roles.
  • Development and NGO Professionals
    Individuals working in development organisations, project management, and public service delivery who wish to strengthen their leadership and governance capabilities.
  • Aspiring Public Administrators and Policy Makers
    Professionals seeking careers in public policy, strategic management, procurement, digital governance, and public sector leadership.

Why Choose a One-Year Master of Public Administration?

  • Time-Efficient
    Complete your master’s degree in just one year, enabling you to advance your qualifications without extended study commitments.
  • Cost-Effective
    Benefit from a lower overall investment compared to longer-duration postgraduate programmes.
  • Career Advancement
    Progress into senior roles such as Public Administration Officer, Project Manager, Policy Analyst, Procurement Manager, and Director-level positions in government and development sectors.
  • Flexible Learning
    Designed to accommodate busy schedules through online and blended delivery, allowing you to balance study with professional responsibilities.
  • Focused Curriculum
    Emphasis on strategic management, financial administration, public procurement, digital governance, and research, directly relevant to real-world public sector challenges.
  • Minimal Career Disruption
    Continue working while studying, with the opportunity to immediately apply new knowledge and skills in your current role.

Programme Learning Outcomes (SLQF Level 9)

Upon successful completion of the programme, graduates will be able to:

  • Critically evaluate theories and practices of public administration and governance
  • Apply strategic and financial management principles in public sector organizations
  • Design and manage public projects and development initiatives effectively.
  • Demonstrate competence in public procurement and resource management.
  • Utilize information systems and digital technologies for public sector efficiency.
  • Conduct independent research to address public policy and administrative issues.
  • Demonstrate ethical leadership, accountability, and good governance practices.
  • Formulate evidence-based recommendations for public sector reforms.

Post-MSSW Progression Pathways

Advancing Your Academic and Professional Journey

Upon successful completion of the One-Year Master of Public Administration (MPA), graduates gain access to a progressive pathway that integrates academic advancement with leadership opportunities in the public sector.

Advanced Academic and Research Progression

Progress directly into the research stage of a Master’s (SLQF Level 10) or doctoral qualifications, strengthening research capabilities in public administration and policy.

Public Sector Leadership and Career Advancement

Advance into senior administrative, managerial, and policy roles within government institutions, local authorities, and international development organisations.

Specialised and Global Opportunities

Explore specialised areas such as public policy, e-governance, project management, and procurement with opportunities in government, NGOs, and global development agencies.

PROGRAM

Modules are subject to change in line with academic and industry requirements.

Entry Requirements

Admission to the programme is designed to be inclusive yet rigorous, ensuring candidates possess the academic foundation and professional readiness to succeed.

Academic and Professional Qualifications

Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

  • A recognised Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from an approved institution.
  • Higher Diploma Qualification with Experience A recognised Higher Diploma from an approved institution, together with a minimum of three (03) years of supervisory or executive-level work experience.
  • Diploma Qualification with Extensive Experience A recognised Diploma from an approved institution, together with a minimum of five (05) years of supervisory or executive-level work experience.

Eligibility and Approval

All applications are subject to a rigorous review process, and final eligibility will be determined by the Academic Board and/or Senate on a case-by-case basis.

Admission and Selection Process

  • All applicants will be required to attend a formal online interview conducted by the Academic Panel.
  • This process is designed to assess the applicant’s motivation, professional experience, and readiness to successfully undertake the programme.

INVESTMENT

Programme Fee Structure

  • Total Investment: LKR 280,000

    • Registration Fee: LKR 5,000
    • First Instalment: LKR 25,000
      (Payable within three (03) weeks from the commencement of the programme)
    • Monthly Instalments: LKR 25,000 × 10

Note

All registered students will receive International Student Registration, including an official Student ID Card and Student Registration Letter, issued through Nile University of Science and Technology, which is recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC). These documents will be issued within one month of successful registration.

Students may initially register for the programme by paying Rs. 5,000 and attend lectures for one month to assess the quality of the course. During this period, the Nile University registration fee of Rs. 25,000 must be paid. Upon completion of payment, international student registration will be issued within one month.

Fees once paid are non-refundable and non-transferable, in accordance with institutional financial policies and regulations.

WHAT YOU NEED TO APPLY

Required Documents

  1. Your application must include certified copies of the following documents:
  2. Scanned copy of National Identity Card (NIC) or Passport
  3. Scanned copies of previous academic qualifications and transcripts
  4. Proof of payment

Application Steps

  1. Choose your preferred programme.
  2. Review the entry requirements and confirm your eligibility.
  3. Prepare the required supporting documents.
  4. Submit your application online, or contact our admissions team for guidance.

Admissions Support

012 620 444 / 011 262 0455
070 464 1555 / 070 565 0666
070 536 8324 / 070 323 5669