The department offers students the opportunity to complete both a bachelor of arts (BA) and a master of public administration (MPA) in five (5) years. In order to qualify for the combined degree, students must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5. In addition: Prior to their senior year, students must complete 96 credits that meet all of the undergraduate requirements, including Writing and General Education plus all but 12 credits needed for the major. During the senior year, students will complete 12 credits in the major and the remaining 20 credits needed for the undergraduate degree, which will be satisfied by graduate level MPA coursework.