Master of Public Administration (Finance) University of Birmingham, UK

Our MPA in Public Administration (Finance) bridges theory and practice, enabling you to acquire the skills and understanding needed for effective management and strategy in government. The programme is delivered in a highly motivated international learning environment.

The MPA is an international Masters’ programme, aimed at people who are pursuing (or would like to pursue) a career in public administration in government, public enterprises or non-governmental organisations, whether at local, national or international level. The programme is particularly suitable for those working in finance ministries, finance sections within sectoral ministries, development banks, local government, public enterprises, aid providers, non-governmental organisations, and research and training organisations who wish to participate at a strategic level in financial management decisions.

The Finance pathway will enable managers in the public sector and not-for-profit sector to update and improve their practical skills and their understanding of financial and economic management. This will enable managers to participate in financial management at the strategic level in their organisation rather than to focus on detailed technical skills such as bookkeeping. This is primarily a public sector management, not a  business management programme, although some of the themes covered are relevant to both sectors.

Why study this course?

This is an MPA programme aimed at people already working within, or closely with, the public sector or not-for-profit sector, or wanting to join the sectors, particularly within developing or newly industrialised countries. The programme:

• Has a strong international focus, using real examples and practice from many countries and being relevant to many countries, and with an international student body.
• Includes a study visit, to learn about public administration and strategy in a particular context, with meetings with a range of public sector and associated bodies. There are two locations to choose from each year – destinations in recent years include St Petersburg, Guangzhou, Vienna, Berlin
• Is aimed particularly at applicants with experience and interest in financial and economic management within the public sector. However, no prior experience or study in economics or financial management is required or assumed.