#United States #Lakeland #Florida Southern College #Public Service #Master of Public Administration

Florida Southern College Introduces New MPA Program

Florida Southern College has recently announced its exciting new Master of Public Administration (MPA) program, with the inaugural cohort expected to commence in Fall 2026. This initiative aligns with the college's longstanding commitment to civic education and leadership development, aiming to equip students with the necessary skills for impactful roles within the public and nonprofit sectors.

Dr. Tracey Tedder, the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Florida Southern, expressed the institution’s dedication to shaping capable leaders for public service. The MPA program is particularly timely as it addresses the increasing demand for skilled professionals who can adeptly handle the multifaceted challenges present in today’s society. Dr. Tedder emphasized, "The program is designed to prepare effective leaders who can positively influence their communities."

Program Overview

The MPA curriculum provides a solid foundation in public administration's theoretical aspects and practical applications within the United States. The coursework focuses on the interactions between local, state, and federal agencies, empowering students with crucial competencies like policy analysis, program evaluation, public budgeting, and administrative ethics.

Dr. Sara Fletcher Harding, Dean of Arts and Sciences at Florida Southern, highlighted that the MPA program reflects the institution’s commitment to training students to lead with integrity and vision. She noted, "Our graduates will be well-prepared for careers in city management, nonprofit leadership, and public policy analysis, equipped to drive meaningful changes in the communities they serve."

Why Choose Florida Southern's MPA Program?

1. Expert Faculty: Students will learn from professors who bring extensive real-world experience in areas such as American politics, international relations, and public-sector consulting.
2. In-Demand Skills: As the landscape of public service continues to evolve, qualified professionals in policy, budgeting, and administration are becoming increasingly sought after across various sectors.
3. Versatile Career Paths: The program prepares graduates for a diverse range of careers, strategically positioning them for roles in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, and consulting firms.
4. Practical Experience: Students will engage in hands-on learning through portfolios, evaluation projects, and either internships or a thesis, guaranteeing practical exposure to complex public administration challenges.

The MPA program is offered in a hybrid format, combining both in-person and online courses, allowing students to customize their educational experience to fit their personal and professional commitments. Florida Southern emphasizes a personalized approach that ensures students receive individual mentorship and support throughout their graduate studies.

Dr. Harding added, "We believe that this MPA program will inspire a new generation of ethical and effective leaders. Our graduates will not only understand policy but will also be poised to lead in shaping it."

For those interested in enrolling, further details and application information for the Fall 2026 cohort can be found on the official Florida Southern College website at www.flsouthern.edu/MPA.

Founded in 1883, Florida Southern College is recognized as the oldest private college in Florida. Its commitment to academic excellence is reflected in over 70 undergraduate programs and unique graduate offerings in business administration, education, nursing, and physical therapy. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1, it boasts a reputation as a national leader in engaged learning and has secured 30 NCAA Division II National Championships. Florida Southern College is highly ranked in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 'Best Colleges' guide, securing positions among the top universities in the South, in innovation, and for exceptional value. The college also hosts the world’s largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, featuring 13 of his designed structures.

In summary, the new MPA program at Florida Southern College is poised to play a significant role in developing capable leaders who will contribute positively to society.