Concentrations
Concentrations
The Master of Public Administration (MPA) online program offers four career-focused concentrations designed to deepen your expertise. Students can choose from Policy Analytics, Economic and Community Development, Emergency Management, or Nonprofit Management.
Whether you’re interested in harnessing data for policy decisions, supporting economic growth, leading during crises, or managing nonprofit organizations, each concentration complements the program’s core curriculum. All courses are designed with working professionals in mind.
Custom concentrations are available in consultation with an advisor or director. Please reach out to Paola Wolaver at pcw@utk.edu for more information.
Economic & Community Development
The Economic and Community Development concentration prepares students to evaluate government decisions on economic growth, land use planning, and the delivery of public services. By combining policy analysis with applied economic tools, this concentration prepares graduates to work at the intersection of public policy and economic development, leading initiatives that drive growth and foster vibrant communities.
Emergency Management
The Emergency Management concentration equips students with the knowledge and skills to prevent, plan for, respond to, and recover from disasters and complex crises. Students explore hazard analysis and management, strategies for collaboration and communication during crises, and approaches to preparedness and risk mitigation, building the capacity to lead effectively in high-stakes environments.
Nonprofit Management
The Nonprofit Management concentration prepares students to lead with impact in mission-driven organizations. Designed around the unique challenges and opportunities of the nonprofit sector, this concentration covers strategy, fundraising, social innovation, and effective governance, equipping graduates with the skills to advance organizational success and strengthen communities.
Policy Analytics
The Policy Analytics concentration equips students to harness data to generate insights and solutions to pressing public problems. With advanced training in data analysis, visualization, and policy evaluation, students are prepared to analyze public policy problems using cutting edge techniques and to communicate their insights to a broad audience.
