CBU MPA Alumni DPA Bridge Program (Online)
The online Doctor of Public Administration at California Baptist University develops innovative leaders who seek to maximize impact in public and non-profit organizations.
Program Intro
CBU MPA graduates are eligible to enter the DPA program and waive 16 units of the DPA curriculum. DPA 701, DPA 710, DPA 720, and DPA 725 are waived in the DPA curriculum for a total of 44 units of required coursework as opposed to 60 units for non CBU MPA graduates.
Created for the working adult, the online DPA program allows students to focus on one online class every eight weeks. Curriculum and courses in the online doctorate in public administration program meet the needs of professionals tasked in responding to the complex and unique issues organizations encounter at the federal, state and local levels within planning, criminal justice, governance, policy, health management and social service arenas.
*with a full-time course load
*Based on current academic year. Subject to change.
Why Earn Your Doctor of Public Administration (Online) at CBU?
Get Your Degree Faster
The MPA/DPA Alumni Bridge Program allows a graduate to complete a doctorate in less than 60 units thereby saving money and time. CBU MPA graduates have the requisite foundational theoretical knowledge to further build upon learning to earn the DPA.
One of a Kind
This MPA/DPA Alumni Bridge program is unique and no other university offers an MPA/DPA joint program. USC and University of La Verne offer a joint JD/MPA but have no program with a combined masters in public admin. and doctorate. The online DPA allows for any CBU MPA graduate from around the globe to pursue this degree.
Asynchronous Delivery
We know practitioners are often needing to travel and have flexibility. Our program is designed to meet the needs and demands of mid to senior level public and non-profit practitioners. Each class has five course deliverables and consistent due dates so one can simultaneously manage their life and career.
Learn Flexibly Online, On Your Schedule
- Accelerated, asynchronous courses offered 100% online
Program Details
Consistent with the university student outcomes, upon completion of the Doctor of Public Administration degree, graduates will be able to:
- Communicate effectively.
- Analyze public agencies, and the work they conduct, in order to directly and indirectly examine the use of power, authority and resources for the populations they serve.
- Evaluate authority as determined through legitimate power in public organizations.
- Examine the necessary political-administrative dichotomy in public organizations.
- Distinguish what behaviors constitute proper bureaucratic action for the organizations in which they serve as well as for the constituents who receive services.
- Examine equity and fairness as it relates to the social, economic and political aspects of public administration.
- Examine the definition of efficiency/effectiveness as it relates to the practice of public administration.
- Conduct ethical research.
DPA 795: Public Administration Special Topics
This course is designed to complete a basic outline for the first two chapters of the dissertation. Topic area is determined and preliminary research on topic is explored.
DPA 781: Comprehensive Experience
This course is designed to expand upon the transition of a prospectus into a formal dissertation. Official committee formation is expected by the end of this course. Successful completion of a defense experience outlining and defending Chapters 1-3 of a viable prospectus must be successfully completed in order to progress to DPA 797.
DPA 750: Public Policy, Advocacy, and Economics
TThis course will explore trends, characteristics, imperatives, and consequences of public-policy making. Discussion includes how global economies affect the political climate and how representation of powerful actors, PACS, and institutions are representative factors of collective action, electoral processes, fiscal policy, bureaucracy, regulation and constitutional reforms at the federal, state and local levels.
Professor of Public Administration Office Phone: 951-343-3929 Professor of Public Administration Office Phone: 951-343-3948
Elaine Ahumada, DPA
Program Director, Doctor of Public Administration (Online)
E-mail: eahumada@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: The Point 212
Beth Groves, DPA
Program Director, Master of Public Administration (Online)
E-mail: bgroves@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: The Point 214
Is financial aid available to help pay for online programs?
Our online degrees offer a reputable and more affordable option for earning your bachelor’s,
master's or doctorate degree. When pursuing an online degree, students are freed from
the financial obligations that accompany some traditional degrees, such as room accommodations,
gas and parking. Additionally, CBU has partnered with select employers to provide their employees with the opportunity to improve their career through their
educational goals and receive a 20% tuition scholarship. Learn more about tuition and financial aid.
Are CBU's online programs accredited?
California Baptist University (CBU), which includes all programs offered online, is accredited by the Western Association
of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Many prospective
students are uncertain about which college degrees employers or universities will
accept. This regional accreditation by WSCUC means you can be confident that your
CBU degree is recognized and respected by schools and companies across the country.
What resources do I need to complete my degree online?
To complete your online degree, you will need access to a computer, Wi-Fi and a word
processor like Microsoft Word. These are necessary to access the student learning
system and complete your assignments. Some programs may require different resources.
Check with your enrollment counselor for specific expectations upon applying for your
program, or you can view additional information here.
As you make decisions about graduate school, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.
| Application Deadlines | Fall | Spring |
|---|---|---|
| Priority | May 15 | November 1 |
| Standard | August 1 | December 1 |
Career Possibilities
- Public Sector Executives
- Executive Directors, senior leaders, coordinators
- Social and Community Service Directors
- Dept. Directors in social work, public health, behavioral health
- Sales Manager
*Some career options may require further education.
Related Programs
Next Steps
Join a growing group of accomplished alumni who earned their degree while balancing career and family goals. To begin your journey at California Baptist University and connect with your God-given calling, request more information or apply today!