Welcome to the School of Public Service at the Strome College of Business, where education meets purpose and careers are built on impact. In a world that demands leadership, integrity, and vision, a career in public service offers a chance to succeed professionally and transform communities.
At the School of Public Service, we offer a Master of Public Administration, a Ph.D. in Public Administration and Policy, several graduate certificates, and an undergraduate minor in Public Service. Our MPA program is nationally recognized and the highest-ranked graduate program at Old Dominion University. We are accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration, the national certifying organization for public administration programs.
We believe in empowering individuals to lead with purpose. Whether you aspire to influence public policy, manage nonprofit organizations, or enhance public safety, our programs equip you with the skills, knowledge, and network to drive meaningful change.
Our flexible learning opportunities ensure that education fits your lifestyle. With options for evening, online, and hybrid classes, you can balance your career, personal commitments, and education without compromise. Here, learning goes beyond the classroom—our faculty are educators and experienced public service leaders who bring real-world insights to every lecture, discussion, and project.
Graduates of our programs go on to become leaders in their organizations and communities. Our alumni work at universities, nonprofit organizations, and in all-levels of government, helping to serve our communities and improve the quality of the public service organizations surrounding us. The tools that our students learn help them to become public administrations who lead with compassion, efficiency, strength, and equity.
Whether you are considering a career in public service, seeking to advance your current role, or simply exploring how you can make a difference, we invite you to learn more about the School of Public Service. Discover how our community of students, alumni, and partners is changing lives and leading purposefully.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Dr. Bruce D. McDonald III, Ph.D.
Director, School of Public Service