Image of EMPA Alum with Quote: "The Cohort-based structure of the program really helped illuminate the curriculum to me. Lessons were echoed and ilustrated through the individual experiences of my fellow cohort members. This forced me to view common challenges and 'wicked problems' through the lenses of people very different than I am, which stretched my frame of reference and allowed me to grow" - Kendrick Stewart, Executive MPA, 2015, Administrator, Washington State Department of Social & Health Services

EMPA Students & Program Benefits

  • Each cohort of students is made of about 40 mid-career professionals from a variety of sectors and areas of expertise, who complete the set 13-course curriculum together
  • While most students hail from the Pacific Northwest, our students attend the program from across the United States due to its work-compatible schedule
Sector Representation Donut Chart: 22% Nonprofit/Social, 21% Private, 57% Public

EMPA Eligibility

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college
  • 3.0 GPA, cumulative from the last 90 quarter/60 semester credit hours of academic course work (roughly 2 years), whether all of those credits were completed as part of a degree or certificate program or not (non-matriculated).
  • Minimum of 7 years of professional experience, with a significant portion spent in a managerial role, which should include:
    • Experience managing other employees (above a supervisory level) and/or
    • Program management that involves balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders, including different organizations, funders, boards, elected officials, community groups, etc.
  • Proficient in professional writing, analytical thinking, and ability to organize thoughts and express them in writing
  • No GRE or GMAT scores are required for Executive MPA admission

Please see the Evans School General Requirements for All Applicants for more information