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Is the DPA professionally accredited? 

The DPA is accredited by a regional body, WSUSC. While the professional accreditation for Public Administration and public policy programs is the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), this organization only accredits master's programs and not doctoral programs being that the terminal degree in the public sector is an MPA or MPP. 

Am I guaranteed to finish in three years? 

The DPA is designed with an embedded dissertation process structured to assist students in meeting specific milestones every eight weeks for dissertation development. While there are three sessions (24 weeks) built within the program’s structure and timeline, most students finish their dissertation and defend within 40-64 weeks once advancing to candidacy (entering their committee). 

Can I choose any topic for a dissertation?  

Since the program is a doctorate for practitioners, we require that you select a topic that is within your wheelhouse of career expertise. Our students are in-service working practitioners and should choose topics for research that are related to their respective experience within a particular realm of the public or non-profit sectors. 

How many hours are expected each week if you work full-time? 

Our program is designed for a full-time working practitioner. On average, it is expected that a student would spend anywhere from 15-25 hours on writing, reading and research per week. Hours are dependent upon familiarity within the discipline (having an MPA degree as a foundation) and the skill sets of a student (proficiency levels in APA writing and research skills).  

Once completed, will my online degree state California Baptist University or will it say CBU online? 

Your degree from CBU Online is taught by faculty from California Baptist University and your diploma and transcript will say "California Baptist University." 

What is CBU’s purpose? 

California Baptist University believes each person has been created for a purpose. CBU helps students understand and engage this purpose by providing a Christ-centered educational experience that integrates academics with spiritual and social development opportunities. Graduates are challenged to become individuals whose skills, integrity and sense of purpose glorify God and distinguish them in the workplace and in the world.