Frequently Asked Questions

Candidates who are interested to learn more about the MPA program or the Graduate Healthcare Management Certificate are encouraged to arrange a meeting with the MPA program director, Dr. Anna Filipova (filipova@uwosh.edu).

How long will it take for me to complete the MPA program?

When the MPA program is taken online, it can be completed in as few as two years.

What are the programs’ fees and is there any financial aid?

Yes! For current information on tuition and fees as well as Financial Aid, please visit this website.

What is the deadline for submitting an application?

Applications deadlines for Summer/Fall is March 1st and for Spring is October 1st. However, the MPA program accepts applications throughout the year. Because classes fill quickly, seats are guaranteed for those who apply by the deadlines.

Are there any pre-admission exams?

No! GRE and GMAT are not required for admission in the MPA program. Those test scores are not always the best predictors of a student’s ability to complete the MPA degree.

Are there special requirements for international students?

Yes! International students must demonstrate evidence of English proficiency (TOEFL).

Does my undergraduate degree need to be in political science?

No! In fact, MPA students possess a wide variety of undergraduate majors, including public administration, business administration, economics, environmental affairs, foreign languages, biological sciences, sociology, religion, history, math, psychology, geography, etc.

Do you have a policy on acceptance of credits for courses taken in the past?

Yes, it is valid since 09/08/2005: Credit for courses which have been taken within seven years of acceptance into the MPA program, and have been approved by the faculty, will be applied to the student’s record.

We also have a policy on credit for prior learning. No more than 6 credits are accepted toward the MPA program under this policy. Please check with the program director.

What is the program’s transfer of courses policy?

For information about the transfer of credits policy, please contact the program director.

Can I take a single class to see if I like the program? How do I take just one class?

Yes! You may take a single class in this program by applying to the program as a non-degree special student. Learn more at the Graduate School site. Special student status does not allow that the applicant receives financial aid. Students can take up to 12 credits on a special student status that could apply toward the MPA program.

How can putting the letters “MPA” after my name help me?

“Putting the letters “MPA” after your name (e.g., Jim Peters, MPA) will set you apart in the job market. Employers look for distinctive characterstics in applicants, and they will recognize the degree. When an HR manager has 30 seconds to review a cover letter, this could make a big difference. Simply adding those three letters instantly signals the skills and knowledge you have gained. Use the designation on online profiles such as LinkedIn, in your email ‘signature’, resume, and professional letters.” (NASPAA)

Why an MPA degree instead of an MBA degree?

“Both an MPA and an MBA degree offer advanced management courses as part of their core curriculum. An MPA degree, while still flexible enough to apply to the private sector (where many UW-Oshkosh MPA graduates work), is a degree focused on a career in public service. If you want a career in a government agency, in a non-profit organization, in a health care organization, in other public service organizations, or in a philanthropic institution, an MPA degree is ideal.” (NASPAA)

• MPA vs MBA: What are the big differences?

Why an MPA degree instead of another graduate degree?

“The MPA is a flexible professional degree for these interested in managing, leading, and most of all: serving the public. Deciding to pursue an MPA is a strategic way of ensuring you have a master’s degree that is fulfilling and practical. MPA graduates are found in a variety of fields and policy areas across all career sectors. And since the arena of public service is so vast, the degree will enable you to synthesize and transfer all of your education, volunteer work, and professional experience into a meaningful career.” (NASPAA)

How long does it take to complete the HCM certificate program?

• The program can be completed in ONE year or one can take up to four years.
• Courses are offered in fall, spring, summer, and interim semesters.
• Currently all courses are offered 100% online.

When do I need to apply to the HCM certificate program?

Prospective students are accepted throughout the year and may enroll at the beginning of fall or spring semesters.

When are graduate HCM courses offered and in what delivery format?

Courses in Category A and Category B are offered in fall, spring, and summer. Currently all are conducted online.

Are HCM Certificate Credits transferable towards a graduate degree?

Yes. All required course credits (Category A) are transferable towards a Master of Public Administration with health agency administration emphasis.

How do the HCM category B online courses work?

Courses in Category B are primarily delivered through the School of Nursing & Health Professions or the School of Business.

What is the tuition for the HCM category B online courses?

Please contact the School of Nursing & Health Professions at nhp@uwosh.edu and the School of Business at business@uwosh.edu.

Do I have to take the GRE?

Matriculation into the HCM certificate program does not require a GRE score from potential students.

Can I take a single class to see if I like the program? How do I take just one class?

Yes, you may elect to take a single class to see if it meets your expectations by applying to the program as a non-degree special student. See more information from the Graduate School.

Can I transfer academic credits from another institution?

We do not accept transfer credit from another institution into the HCM Certificate program.