4+1 Master of Public Administration
Make a Lasting Impact in Your Community and Beyond
The 4+1 Master of Public Administration (MPA) at Florida Southern College equips high-achieving students to lead effectively, influence policy, and drive meaningful change across the public and nonprofit sectors. This accelerated pathway allows students to earn both a bachelor’s degree and an MPA in as little as five years, preparing them for careers in city management, nonprofit leadership, and public policy. With a flexible format and a practice-focused curriculum, FSC’s 4+1 MPA enables students to gain advanced leadership and policy skills while seamlessly transitioning from undergraduate to graduate study positioning them to step confidently into roles that shape communities.
Upcoming Term Start Date
Fall 2026
High Demand
Strong ROI
Career Impact
Why choose 4+1 MPA at FSC?
Save Time and Money
Complete your undergraduate and MPA degrees in an accelerated timeframe, reducing overall tuition costs and entering the workforce sooner.
Flexible Learning Options
Courses are offered in a hybrid format, a combination of online and in-class meetings. One class will be offered on campus in the evening, and one course will be offered online.
Feel Prepared for the Workforce
The MPA is designed to connect theory with real-world work. Through an internship or a thesis, you’ll gain both practical experience and academic knowledge.
Featured 4+1 MPA Faculty
R. Bruce Anderson
4+1 MPA Program Details
Admission Requirements
Students interested in enrolling in the 4+1 MPA at Florida Southern College should apply during their junior year to ensure a seamless transition. While the program is open to all majors, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Undergraduate Credit Hours: At least 93 completed undergraduate credit hours by the start of the program.
- GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.00.
- Current Resume: Include an up-to-date resume with your application.
- Letter of Recommendation: Submit a completed Recommendation Form or a professional letter of reference.
- Personal Statement:Write a personal essay (no more than 1,000 words) that:
- Detail your interest in the MPA program and its connection to your professional goals.
Approval: Obtain approval from the MPA Program Director.
Additional Requirements for International Students
(needed after undergraduate degree completion)
- A recent bank letter verifying funds from your sponsor (must be on bank letterhead and signed by a bank official).
- A completed Sponsor’s Guarantee Form.
- A valid passport.
Course Delivery
Hybrid
Courses are offered in a hybrid format, a combination of online and in-class meetings. One class will be offered on campus in the evening and one course will be offered online.
Curriculum
| POS 6100 | Foundations of Public Administration and Public Service in the U.S. |
| POS 6200 | Federalism & Intergovernmental Relations |
| POS6300 | Research Methods for Public and Nonprofit Organizations |
| POS 6400 | Public Policy Analysis |
| POS 6500 | Leadership in Public Administration |
| POS 6600 | Program Evaluation |
| POS 6700 or POS 6800 | Thesis or Internship |
Program Costs
Admitted undergraduate students in the 4+1 MPA program can take up to 8 credit hours of graduate coursework during their undergraduate studies. These credits count toward both undergraduate and MPA degree requirements.
- Graduate courses taken during fall or spring semesters before earning an undergraduate degree are billed at the traditional undergraduate full-time tuition rate.
- Courses taken during a summer semester before completing the undergraduate degree follow the undergraduate summer tuition rate.
Once the undergraduate degree is awarded, any additional graduate coursework is charged at the MPA per-credit-hour rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 4+1 MPA program?
The 4+1 Master of Public Administration (MPA) is an accelerated program that allows students to earn both a bachelor’s degree and an MPA in as little as five years.
What are the eligibility requirements for the 4+1 MPA?
Eligible students must be enrolled in an undergraduate program at Florida Southern College, maintain a strong academic record, and meet prerequisite coursework requirements appropriate for graduate-level public administration studies.
How do I apply to the 4+1 MPA program?
Current FSC undergraduates should speak with their academic advisor about enrolling in the 4+1 program. Students are typically eligible to apply once they have earned 93 credit hours.
When do I start taking MPA courses?
Students accepted into the program begin taking graduate-level MPA courses during their senior year. Some courses may count toward both undergraduate and graduate degree requirements, allowing students to accelerate completion.
What financial aid options are available for the MPA?
Undergraduate financial aid is available while students are enrolled as undergraduates. After earning the bachelor’s degree, students become eligible for graduate financial aid. For more information, contact the Financial Aid Office at 863.680.4140.
What are the benefits of the 4+1 MPA?
- Time & Cost Savings: Earn two degrees in five years, reducing overall tuition costs.
- Career Readiness: Graduate with advanced leadership, policy, and management skills sought after in public and nonprofit sectors.
- Seamless Transition: No additional application process and continued study in a familiar academic environment.
- Professional Preparation: Build credentials early for leadership roles in government and nonprofit organizations.
What is the format of the MPA program?
The MPA program offers a flexible format, including hybrid course options. Classes are designed to accommodate students balancing coursework, internships, or part-time employment.
What careers do FSC MPA graduates pursue?
Graduates pursue roles in city and county government, nonprofit leadership, public policy, community development, and public service organizations at the local, state, and federal levels.
Will I be prepared for leadership roles?
Yes. The program emphasizes ethical leadership, public policy analysis, organizational management, and strategic decision-making; preparing graduates to lead effectively in public and nonprofit settings.
How does FSC support my career after graduation?
Florida Southern College’s nationally ranked Career Services offers personalized career coaching, networking opportunities, and employer connections. Faculty mentors also provide individualized guidance throughout the program and beyond.
4+1 MPA Program Contact
Abbey Bonet, MSHE
Assistant Director of Adult and Graduate Admission
863.680.3090text message 863.656.0755