Valdosta State University
Online Public Administration & Criminal Justice Master's Degrees
Purposeful. Respected. Empowered.
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Advance Your Career in Public Service
Valdosta State University’s online Master of Public Administration (MPA) or Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration (CJA) are designed for professionals who want to lead, serve, and make an impact.
- Build expertise in policy, budgeting, and organizational management.
- Gain leadership skills for leadership roles in agencies and/or organizations.
- Analyze and apply research to solve public and community challenges.
- Serve your community with integrity, professionalism, and purpose.
Explore Your Degree Options
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
- Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs (NASPAA)
- Three concentrations:
- Public Sector Management
- Public Sector Human Resource Management
- Public Policy
- Non-thesis program designed to prepare students for productive and rewarding careers in public service
Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration (CJA)
- This program focuses on integrating criminal justice theory, research, and practice
- Students develop an understanding of:
- Major criminological theories
- Criminal justice systems in the United States and other countries
- Scientific research methods and their application to criminal justice
- The integration of theory and research with professional practice
- Contemporary criminal justice issues in modern societies
- Non-thesis program designed to prepare students for productive and rewarding careers in criminal justice and related fields
Our programs are 100% online and built for working adults so you can balance graduate study with your career, family, and service.
Where an MPA or CJA Can Take You
Graduates from Valdosta State’s online MPA and CJA programs are prepared for leadership across government, nonprofit, and law enforcement roles.
With a Master of Public Administration degree, you could become a:
City Manager
Public Affairs Director
Budget Director
*2024 Annual Median Pay according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries range based on location and experience.
With a Master’s in Criminal Justice Administration, you could become a:
Public Safety Director
Police Administration Manager
Correctional Administrator
*2025 National Average Annual Salary per ZipRecruiter. Salaries range based on location and experience.
At VSU, you’re never just a number. Faculty mentors and advisors are committed to your success.
Hear What Our Students Have to Say
"Being part of the MPA program at Valdosta State means entering a learning community that invests in you and fosters your desire and passion to work in the public sector. By combining experiential learning with professional insight, I obtained advanced understanding of concepts and engaged my ability to analyze and critically think about relevant topics. Valdosta’s MPA program supports diverse viewpoints, and classes function as a model for practicing democratic and collaborative values."
Darby Thompson, MPA 2024
"My experience in the online Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration program at Valdosta State University was exceptional. The faculty were highly supportive and genuinely committed to helping me achieve my goals, providing clear guidance and flexibility that allowed me to complete my degree as efficiently as possible. The unique specialty courses were particularly valuable—each one deepened my understanding of criminal justice administration and connected theory to real-world practice."
Dr. Patrice Kerner
Criminal Justice Assistant Professor at Columbus State University
