Financing Your Education
Estimated Tuition
The estimated cost of the Public Administration program is $1,660 per unit for the 2024-2025 academic year, with a minimum of 8 units required to be completed each academic year. Students typically take an average of 18 units in the first academic year and 20 units in the second academic year. A total of 38 units are required for the degree. Program fees are subject to adjustment annually, and the number of required units may vary based on enrollment status. Please contact Kresten Froistad-Martin (kfroistadmartin@usfca.edu) to discuss the specifics of the program.
Program Scholarships
We offer a limited number of merit-based scholarships to incoming students on a competitive basis for up to $10,000 to highly selective applicants to support their first-year study in the program. All applicants, both U.S. and international students, are considered for these scholarships when the applications are reviewed. There is no separate application for this type of financial assistance. Applications received before the Priority Date will receive preferred scholarship consideration.
The Dean's Scholarship
The Dean’s Scholarship grants recipients compensation for research and for conference travel. Additional benefits include the Dean's Scholar kickoff and reception, connection with other Dean's Scholars and with leaders across the college, and the chance to serve as program representatives to USF donors and Development initiatives.
To be considered for the $15,000 Dean's Scholarship towards their first year of tuition, students must apply by the program's priority deadline.
Double Dons Scholarship
USF Alumni and current students can be awarded the USF Double Dons Scholarship upon admission. The scholarship covers 20% of the program tuition, and may not be stacked with other USF scholarship awards. Exceptions may apply.
Double Dons on MyUSF
On-Campus Student Employment
Enrolled students can apply for student employment opportunities on campus to earn additional income towards tuition or day-to-day expenses. International students are eligible to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the semester and up to 35 hours during the summer period and intersession.
Non-USF Financial Aid
Applicants can also seek out non-USF financial aid to fund their graduate education.
Public & Administration Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to select MPA students that show exceptional leadership in government service and community management.
Lieutenant Barbara Hammerman Memorial Scholarship
Lieutenant Barbara Hammerman served the citizens of San Mateo with distinction for 21 years as a member of the San Mateo Police Department. She championed the rights and protection of the vulnerable in our society. Barbara was the trailblazer who fought courageously for women’s rights. She was the first openly gay officer hired by the San Mateo Police Department, the first woman in the County to ride on the motorcycle unit, the first to establish random Child Seat Restraint Checkpoints at schools, and the first to establish drunk-driving checkpoints in the City. She consulted high schools on drug trends, trained probation officers on signs and symptoms of drug abuse, and was the first narcotic's detective in San Mateo's history to receive the prestigious Narcotics Officer of the Year award. Barbara received her Bachelor’s degree in Law Enforcement Leadership from the University of San Francisco, and her Master’s in Leadership from St. Mary’s College. This award is given in Barbara’s name because of her commitment to leadership and to serving others.
Merit Scholarships
Merit scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated superior academic and/or professional achievements, and outstanding talent or commitment to extracurricular activities, community service, leadership, entrepreneurship. Merit Scholars should also fully embody the USF mission to change the world for the better. The University of San Francisco School of Management greatly values diversity and offers merit scholarships to applicants from regions and countries around the globe that embrace regular interaction with different cultures and societies.