In pursuing the above purpose, the MPA portfolio contains four primary goals for students:

1. Establish a vision for public service leadership identity.
2. Articulate understanding of public service values.
3. Describe the knowledge and skills developed that are critical to a future career.
4. Document achievement of competencies and demonstrate specific strengths.

The MPA Portfolio Guide will give students additional information, guidance, and resources to begin thinking about and preparing for the portfolio process.

Additionally, preparation sessions will be provided to current students by the instructors of the course the term before they take the PUBA 746 – MPA Portfolio course.

The MPA Oral Exam requires students (1) to demonstrate their knowledge of the themes, issues, and central debates of public administration; (2) to integrate and articulate their career goals as they relate to their portfolio and to specific areas of public administration; (3) to demonstrate applying theory to practice; and (4) to demonstrate effective oral communication skills.

The Oral Exam Guide will give students additional information, guidance, and resources to begin thinking about and preparing for the oral exam process.