The MPA program prepares graduate students from diverse backgrounds to be productive leaders and managers in public service by sharing knowledge, encouraging excellence in research and practice, and fostering an environment of professionalism within the communities we serve. We have a long history of providing quality education and practical experience to our students through community partnerships with organizations such as Kentucky's area development districts, the Legislative Research Commission, and the Center for Local Governments. Graduates go on to serve in a variety of local, state, federal, and nonprofit organizations, and many have successfully pursued doctoral degrees upon graduation from the MPA program. The Master of Public Administration program is offered through the Department of Political Science at Western Kentucky University. The MPA program believes in the importance of the quality of education and has trained professional public administrators since 1973. Thanks to the program's history it has an excellent track record of job placements and providing career opportunities. The program is an accredited member of Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA). NASPAA is the recognized accrediting agency for MPA programs across the globe. Achieving accreditation requires the MPA program meet high standards of public service education that are recognized throughout the field of public administration.