Ranked #5 in Nonprofit Management by U.S. News and World Report

The Executive program in Wagner's Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree helps mid-career professionals prepare for the highest levels of public service leadership. Featuring a powerful professional network and a flexible curriculum, the Executive track teaches advanced competency in leading organizations through change. Students work closely with a faculty advisor to develop individual learning plans based on their unique leadership ambitions and skill-development goals.

Commonly referred to as the "EMPA" program, students come from diverse backgrounds in the public, nonprofit and private sectors and have a minimum of ten years of work experience, including five to seven years of professional management and direct supervisory experience. Graduates of the program benefit from NYU Wagner's deep connections throughout New York City and around the world.

Exploring ...

Beyond the Classroom

The EMPA program fosters a strong community and provides learning opportunities that are not available in the traditional classroom through highly individualized advisement with faculty, a private lecture series with inspiring leaders in public service and a strong alumni network.

Cross-Professional Series (XPS)

Open Society Institute's president, Aryeh Neier, introduced by Dean Ellen Schall

(Image: Open Society Institute's president, Aryeh Neier, introduced by Dean Ellen Schall)

This speaker series offers students in Wagner's Executive and Professional Dual-Degree programs a unique opportunity to hear from leaders in many different fields and with a wide array of career experiences. The series is in intimate seminar style with an accompanying reception where students are able to engage with colleagues across disciplines, fostering important connections.

Careers

Wagner EMPA students play significant roles in redeveloping neighborhoods, advocating for social justice and providing  vital human and social services in nonprofits, consulting firms, private organizations and government agencies.

Degree Requirements

Credits required for graduation: 36

"The EMPA program is designed to train students for shifts in careers and for advancement into new roles or whole new fields. Our focus on leadership, wide-ranging reflection and honed skills is matched by the highly personalized learning journey we offer each student."

–Professor David Elcott, Director of the EMPA Program.

Faculty Director

David Elcott
Principal Faculty Advisor

Global Perspective

Students in the Executive MPA program may concentrate in international public service organizations, preparing them to confront the challenges of implementing complex public service policies and programs in different contexts.

Read more about the global perspective at Wagner.

Alumni Profile

Sandra Goldstein
Satish Chandra
Char Woods