So, you’ve decided to take the next step in your career with a Master of Public Administration (MPA). You’re eyeing your next promotion, eager to lead, and one click away from applying—then reality hits: tuition, fees, books.
Your ambitions shouldn’t come with a heavy price tag, and the good news is, they don’t have to. Whether you’re mid-career, mission-driven, or ready to pivot into public service, there are practical, flexible ways to fund your online MPA without breaking the bank or burning out in the process.
Let’s break them down.
Federal students aid isn’t just for undergraduates. You’re also eligible for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs as a graduate student. This includes direct unsubsidized loans, which come with fixed interest rates, flexible repayment plans, and no co-signer required.
To apply, submit your FAFSA form online and use The University of Texas Permian Basin’s school code: 009930. It’s free, fast, and the most logical first step—even if you’re not sure whether you’ll need a loan.
Pro tip: Submit your FAFSA as early as possible after the application window opens. This boosts your chances of getting the most financial support available.
Looking for scholarships? You have options. Scholarships for graduate students are out there—especially for those in government, policy, or nonprofit work. Two great places to start are UT Permian Basin’s Financial Aid and Scholarship pages.
If you’re in Texas, you may qualify for UTPB’s Graduate Studies Scholarship (GSS). From there, you can expand your search to national organizations like NASPAA or local community foundations.
Here are a few more scholarships to keep on your radar:
Once you’re admitted to UTPB, your program coordinator may send you a list of current scholarships to explore, so you won’t have to search alone.
Pro tip: When applying for scholarships, focus on what makes you stand out. Is it your leadership goals? Your commitment to public service?
Many employers want to invest in their team’s growth, and some employers will even help cover tuition costs. When you bring back real-world skills that help your team, agency or community, your education becomes an investment for your employer, too.
If you’re working in a public service, nonprofit or education role, check to see if your workplace offers tuition assistance, reimbursement, or professional development funds. Even if there isn’t a formal program, your supervisor or HR department may be open to supporting your education-especially if your new skills will benefit the organization.
Pro tip: Prepare a short proposal that explains how your MPA will help you contribute more to your team. Highlight the skills and knowledge you’ll gain and how they align with your company’s goals.
Worried that you can’t pay your tuition all at once? Don’t be. UT Permian Basin offers two payment plans to help you spread your tuition costs out over the semester:
Approvals are immediate, there are no interest rates, and this option is available year-round. Whenever you’re ready, just reach out—we’re here to help!
Pro Tip: Set up automatic payments for your tuition plan to avoid missed deadlines and late fees.
Ready to pursue your online MPA? Let’s recap what we’ve discussed in this article:
Absolutely. There are plenty, especially for those in government, policy or nonprofit sectors.
The UTPB Advantage: Build a Future in Public Service, Your Way
The entirely online Master of Public Administration (MPA) from The University of Texas Permian Basin is designed for busy professionals like you: people who want to drive change and stay career-ready while earning their degree—without spending a fortune.
This program is ideal if you’re looking to:
Looking for more support? We’ve got you! Don’t hesitate to reach out to finaid@utpb.edu with additional questions. We look forward to having you join the Falcon Family!
“Whoever saves one life, saves the world entire” —Thomas Keneally, paraphrased from the Talmud Imagine if you could solve the world’s problems with a wave of your hand. Like magic, you could reform melted glaciers, shelter the country’s stray animals, and provide free meals to school children. Sadly, the world’s problems can’t be fixed so…
Public administration is government in action: the voice of a community heard. Government entities enact policies and programs in the interest of the public, including the less fortunate. These actions are administered through public and nonprofit organizations that are expected to be efficient and effective. Fortunately, there are professionals who specialize in this area: public…
There’s at least one thing liberals and conservatives have in common: They care how their government spends their tax dollars. Facing intense pressure from all sides, the public sector is always innovating in the hopes of delivering effective, efficient services. As part of this effort, public and nonprofit organizations often adopt the competitive structure, culture,…