Public Administration, MPA and Management Information Systems, MS

In government and non-profit organizations, there is a significant need and a long-term demand for persons with advanced skills in information management technology. The primary purpose of this dual degree option is to prepare students to manage and lead organizations in the future. To meet this need, the School of Public Administration and the College of Information Science & Technology offer the option to complete both the MPA and the MS in MIS degree jointly by completing 54 hours of course work. This joint degree program is designed for dedicated students who are able to successfully complete graduate intensive study from two perspectives—public administration and management information systems—while achieving a synergy between the two fields. As such, the program involves graduate coursework in both public administration and information systems, with integrative experiences that will attain the desired synergy. Students interested in this option will work closely with a faculty mentor to develop an integrated plan of study at an early stage.

Program Related Information

Program Contacts

Public Administration

Minsoo Goo, Advisor
402.554.4900
mgoo@unomaha.edu

Management Information Systems

Emily Wiemers, Graduate Advisor 
402.554.3819
ewiemers@unomaha.edu

Program Website

Admissions

General Application Requirements and Admission Criteria

Application Deadlines

• Spring 2027: October 1
• Fall 2027: June 1

Other Requirements

• The general prerequisite for admission to the program is a four year bachelors' degree with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA of the junior-senior year (last 50-60 credit hours).
• Entrance Exam: Submitting GMAT or GRE scores may strengthen your application.

• English Language Proficiency: Applicants are required to have a command of oral and written English. Those who do not hold a baccalaureate or other advanced degree from the United States, OR a baccalaureate or other advanced degree from a predetermined country on the waiver list, must meet the minimum language proficiency score requirement in order to be considered for admission.

  • Internet-based TOEFL: 80, IELTS: 6.5, PTE: 53, Duolingo: 110
• Statement of Purpose
• Writing Sample: From work or previous academic experiences. Alternatively, if you do not have a writing sample, please submit a two page double-spaced word processed essay that addresses the following two topics:
  • Your unique personal qualities and life experiences that distinguish you from other applicants to our graduate program
  • Two accomplishments that demonstrate your potential for success in the graduate program
• Resume: Indicate your work experience and background
• Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation are required

Degree Requirements

MPA/MIS Foundation Courses

All students admitted to the MS in management information systems (MIS) program must demonstrate prerequisite knowledge in web development, software development, and relational databases before beginning graduate coursework. This requirement is met through a set of zero-credit, online, asynchronous Readiness Modules. The modules provide essential foundational skills that support success in the program.

Students may satisfy individual module requirements through prior coursework or by passing a test-out assessment. Students who do not test out must complete the corresponding modules by the end of the first week of classes.

Readiness Modules do not carry academic credit and cannot be applied toward the 54 credit hours required for the degree.

Required Courses