What is the difference between the MPIA and the MPA degree in Northern Virginia?
The MPIA degree is distinct from the Masters of Public Administration in four ways: 1. The MPIA has an international focus and comparative global outlook whereas the MPA is largely focused on domestic and state level institutions. 2. The MPIA is concerned with civil society, governance and democratic culture whereas the MPA is more narrowly concerned with political society, government and administration. 3. The MPA is professional degree focused on institutional administration (personnel management, budgeting, etc) whereas the MPIA degree is an academic degree with particular professional components. 4. The MPIA is a 36 credit hour degree whereas the MPA is a 42 credit hour degree.
