Master of Public Administration (By Research)

About The Program

What is the Master of Public Administration program all about?

The Master of Public Administration program at Lincoln University College will provide public managers and those involved in public sector policies and services with a solid foundation of knowledge about the public sector’s nature, role, and development, as well as current trends in its evolution. Our graduates will have the analytical and professional abilities to successfully comprehend and handle the difficulties of contemporary governance and will be able to make an immediate impact for employers in the public, commercial, and non-profit sectors around the world.

What is the focus of the Master of Public Administration?

The Master of Public Administration focuses on preparing students for leadership roles in public service and government organizations. It emphasizes the development of skills in public policy analysis, organizational management, and decision-making for the public sector. The program covers areas such as public budgeting, ethics in governance, public sector economics, and program evaluation. It aims to equip graduates with the tools to design and implement public policies, manage government agencies, and address societal challenges, making them effective leaders in public administration and non-profit organizations.

How does the Master of Public Administration prepare students for international careers?

The Master of Public Administration is designed to prepare students for careers in international markets by offering International case studies on business challenges and solutions across different economies.

What career support is available for Master of Public Administration students?

Career support for Master of Public Administration students

Career services: Lincoln Business School provide dedicated career services that help students connect with multinational employers through recruitment events, recruitment agency and career fairs.

Alumni networks: Strong global alumni networks are common in Lincoln Business School, allowing students to connect with graduates working in diverse industries worldwide.

What kind of global business experience do faculty members bring to the program?

• Faculty in Master of Public Administration program often have extensive international experience, bringing a wealth of knowledge from global corporations, international research, and consulting roles.
• Lincoln Business Schoolboast a diverse faculty with professionals who have worked in multinational corporations across continents and industries.  This global expertise ensures that students gain a real-world understanding of how business is conducted across different cultures and regions.

Who should consider this program?

This program is ideal for:

1. Aspiring Public Sector Leaders
2. Non-Profit Leaders and Managers
3. Policy Analysts and Policy-Makers
4. Local Government and Urban Planners
5. Aspiring Politicians
6. Social and Community Service Managers
7. International Development Professionals
8. Public Health Administrators
9. Legal and Compliance Experts
10. Education Administrators
11. Environmental Policy and Sustainability Experts
12. Emergency Management and Public Safety
13. Military Officers Transitioning to Civilian Roles
14. Entrepreneurs in the Public Sector

What are the dates for the upcoming Master of Public Administration intake?

• The upcoming intakes for Master of Public Administration program are in March, July, and November.
• These multiple entry points provide flexibility for applicants to start the program at a time that best suits their schedule.

Admission

What are the minimum academic qualifications required for admission into the Master of Public Administration program?

• A Bachelor’s degree (Level 6, Malaysian Qualifications Framework, MQF) in related fields with a minimum CGPA of 2.75 as accepted by the Lincoln University College Senate; OR
• A Bachelor’s degree (Level 6, MQF) in related fields with a minimum CGPA of 2.50 and not meeting CGPA of 2.75 can be accepted, subject to rigorous internal assessment*; OR
• A Bachelor’s degree (Level 6, MQF) in related fields with a minimum CGPA of 2.00 and not meeting CGPA of 2.50 can be accepted, subject to a minimum of 5 years relevant working experience** and rigorous internal assessment*; OR
• A Bachelor’s degree (Level 6, MQF) in non-related fields with a minimum CGPA of 2.50 as accepted by the Lincoln University College Senate, subject to having relevant working experience** and rigorous internal assessment*; OR
• A Bachelor’s degree (Level 6, MQF) in non-related fields with a minimum CGPA of 2.00 and not meeting 2.50 as accepted by the Lincoln University College Senate, subject to a minimum of 5 years relevant working experience** and rigorous internal assessment*; OR
• A Bachelor’s degree (Level 6, MQF) in non-related fields with a minimum CGPA of 2.00 as accepted by the Lincoln University College Senate and without relevant working experience**, subject to passing pre-requisite courses***; OR
• Other qualifications equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree (Level 6, MQF) recognized by the Malaysian Government.
• Rigorous assessment to evaluate the suitability of an applicant for a program through the statement of purpose, interview, and other methods may cover the following criteria:

      o   Demonstration of strong business experience, and that you have held significant managerial responsibilities.

      o   Evidence of any achievements in your professional life, for example, consistently performing at a high level, consistent career progression, and any impact that you have had on your organization.

      o   Professional skills that you have developed, for example, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, negotiating, and analytical skills.

      o   How you will contribute to your class and what experiences you can bring to the institution. (Lancaster University, 2021).

Is work experience required for admission into the Master of Public Administrations program?

Preferably candidates should have 2 to 5 years of professional work experience, with good leadership potential.

Are there specific undergraduate degrees preferred for the Master of Public Administrations program?

• No, an undergraduate degree in any field is usually acceptable for admission. However, degrees in business, economics, or related fields may provide a stronger foundation for some of the core concepts in the Master of Public Administrations program.
• Applicants from non-business backgrounds may be required to take foundational business courses or demonstrate their capacity to handle the program’s academic rigor.

Do I need to submit GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores for the Master of Public Administrations program?

• Master of Public Administrations programs do not require GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) or GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores as part of the admission process, particularly if the applicant has significant work experience or a strong academic record.

What documents are required for the application process?

The typical documents required for the Master of Public Administrations program application include:

• Academic transcripts from all institutions attended.
• Updated resume or CV outlining work experience, academic qualifications, and professional achievements.
• Letters of recommendation (usually 1 to 3), often from academic or professional references.
• A statement of purpose or personal essay explaining your motivation for pursuing the MBA and your career goals.
• GMAT/GRE scores (if required by the program).
• Proof of English proficiency (for non-native English speakers).

Do I need to attend an interview as part of the admission process?

Master of Public Administrations programs may require an admissions interview. If the program includes an interview, it will typically be conducted after an initial review of your application. The interview may be in person or online and is used to assess your motivation, communication skills, and fit for the program.

Can I apply if I am currently finishing my bachelor’s degree?

Yes, Master of Public Administrations program allow current undergraduate students to apply during their final year, provided they submit proof of degree completion before the program starts. You will need to meet all other entry requirements and provide your final academic transcript upon graduation.

Is there a minimum age requirement for the Master of Public Administrations program?

There is typically no minimum age requirement for Master of Public Administrations program. However, many programs prefer candidates who have accumulated some professional experience, which may result in students being in their mid-20s to early 30s.

What is the typical profile of a successful candidate for the Master of Public Administrations program?

A successful candidate for Master of Public Administrations program typically has:

• A bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.
•  Professional experience (preferably 2-5 years, though not mandatory for all programs).
• Strong leadership potential demonstrated through work experience, extracurricular activities, or
• A clear career vision and motivation to succeed in global business, which is expressed through the personal essay or statement of purpose.
• English proficiency (if applicable) and possibly GMAT/GRE scores (if required by the program).

Are there any prerequisite courses?

• In most cases, an Master of Public Administrations does not have strict prerequisite courses, especially for applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field.
• However, for students coming from non-business backgrounds (such as liberal arts, engineering, or the sciences), some programs may require you to complete foundational business courses either before or during the early stages of the program.
• These foundational courses typically cover:
  • Accounting: Basic financial and managerial accounting principles.
  • Economics: Microeconomics and macroeconomics to understand business environments.
  • Finance: Introduction to financial management and corporate finance.
  • Statistics: Business statistics or quantitative methods for data analysis.
  • Management: Principles of management, including organizational behavior and leadership.

Program Structure and Duration

How long does the Master of Public Administrations program take to complete?

• Full-Time Study: 18 Months
• Part-Time Study: 3 – 4 years

What is the minimum credit requirement for graduation from Master of Public Administrations program?

The Master of Public Administrations program at Lincoln University College requires students to complete 48 credit hours to graduate.

Can you outline the structure of the program?

Kindly refer to our brochure by clicking on the link

https://www.lincoln.edu.my/wp-content/uploads/Brochure/Master/Master-of-Public-Administration.pdf

Can you provide details on the course timetable structure?

The timetable is typically made available four weeks prior to the start of the semester. Students can easily access and review their schedules through the LLS student portal, ensuring they have ample time to prepare for the upcoming semester.

English Proficiency

What is the English proficiency requirement?

International students must have proof of good proficiency in verbal and written English. For example, International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.0 or its equivalent.

Can I take an English preparatory course instead?

Yes, the Intensive English Program is available for students who don’t meet the requirement. Successful completion allows for admission to degrees.

How long are test scores valid?

Test scores are valid for two years from the test date.

When should I submit my test scores?

Submit them along with your application or by the deadline outlined by the university.

Accreditation

Is the Master of Public Administration degree accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA)?

Yes, Master of Public Administration at Lincoln University College is accredited by MQA and Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia.

Does the Accreditation Impact Global Employability?

• Yes, accreditationsignificantly impacts global employability.
• Accreditation ensures that the Master of Public Administration program meets international standards of quality and rigor.
• Employers worldwide often prefer graduates from accredited programs as they know the education received is of a high standard.
• Additionally, accredited programs provide students with a competitive edge in the global job market, increasing their chances of securing roles in multinational companies and enhancing their career prospects across various industries and countries.

Does the Program Meet Industry Standards?

• Yes, the Master of Public Administration program is designed to meet current industry standards. The curriculum is regularly updated to align with the latest trends and demands in global business practices, ensuring that students gain relevant skills and knowledge.
• This ensures that graduates are well-prepared to handle real-world challenges in global markets and are equipped with the competencies sought by employers worldwide.

Does the Accreditation Support Further Education and Certifications?

• Yes, accreditation from MQA and Malaysia Ministry of Higher Education strongly supports further education and certifications.
• Graduates from accredited programs are more likely to be accepted into advanced academic pursuits like Ph.D. or Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) programs, as these accreditations assure academic rigor and quality.

How Often is the Accreditation Reviewed or Updated?

• The accreditation for Master of Public Administration by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) is typically reviewed and updated every 3 to 5 years.
• This regular review ensures that the program maintains high academic standards and stays current with industry developments and best practices.
• The MQA periodically assesses the curriculum, teaching methods, and overall quality of the program to ensure it continues to meet national and international educational standards.
• This helps to keep the program relevant, ensuring that students are equipped with up-to-date skills and knowledge for the global business environment.

Career Prospects

Once I complete my Master of Public Administration what are the wide array of career opportunities in both leadership and specialized roles within organizations I can venture into?

1. Government and Public Sector Roles
   a. City or County Manager
   • Role: City or county managers oversee the day-to-day operations of local government, including budgeting, public services, and policy implementation.
   • Prospects: City and county management offers a path to senior leadership in local government, with opportunities for growth into higher administrative or elected roles.
   b. Policy Analyst
   • Role: Policy analysts work in government agencies, think tanks, or international organizations to analyze, develop, and recommend policies. They assess the effectiveness of existing policies and help design new initiatives based on research and data.
   • Prospects: Policy analysts are in demand at various levels of government, especially in areas like healthcare, education, environment, and economic policy.
   c. Public Affairs Specialist
   • Role: Public affairs specialists manage government relations, public communications, and community outreach for government agencies or non-profit organizations.
   • Prospects: This role offers opportunities to engage with the public and influence public perception and policy through strategic communication, media relations, and advocacy.
   d. Government Budget Analyst
   • Role: Budget analysts in government review and prepare budget proposals, ensure the effective allocation of resources, and monitor government spending.
   • Prospects: Budget analysts are critical in public finance, offering a stable career path with opportunities for advancement in finance departments within various government levels.
   e. Public Sector Consultant
   • Role: Consultants specializing in public administration offer advice to government agencies and organizations on improving efficiency, restructuring departments, or implementing new policies.
   • Prospects: Public sector consulting offers dynamic, project-based work with opportunities to lead large-scale reforms and improve governance structures.
2. Non-Profit Management and Leadership
   a. Non-Profit Executive Director
   • Role: Executive directors lead non-profit organizations by overseeing strategic planning, fundraising, program management, and advocacy efforts.
   • Prospects: As the leader of a non-profit, this role involves high-level decision-making, public engagement, and opportunities to drive social change.
   b. Program Manager in Non-Profit Organizations
   • Role: Program managers oversee specific initiatives or programs within a non-profit, managing budgets, staff, and program outcomes.
   • Prospects: Program management offers a route to higher leadership positions in non-profits, with opportunities to expand into larger-scale operations or new sectors like education, healthcare, or social justice.
   c. Fundraising and Development Manager
   • Role: Fundraising managers are responsible for developing and implementing strategies to raise funds for non-profit organizations through donations, grants, and corporate sponsorships.
   • Prospects: As funding is critical for non-profits, fundraising managers are essential to ensuring long-term sustainability and success, with opportunities for leadership roles in development.
3. Policy and International Affairs
   a. Foreign Service Officer
   • Role: Foreign service officers represent their country in diplomatic missions abroad, working in areas such as international relations, trade, and foreign aid.
   • Prospects: A career in foreign service offers the chance to work internationally, influence global policy, and engage in diplomatic affairs, with opportunities for advancement within government foreign services.
   b. International Development Consultant
   • Role: International development consultants advise governments, international organizations (such as the World Bank or UN), and NGOs on policy development, program implementation, and public sector reform in developing countries.
   • Prospects: This career offers the chance to work globally on issues such as poverty alleviation, education, healthcare reform, and governance.
   c. Global Policy Advisor
   • Role: Global policy advisors work for international organizations or think tanks, advising on policy issues that affect multiple countries, such as climate change, human rights, and global trade.
   • Prospects: Opportunities in global policy are available with international NGOs, UN agencies, and multinational organizations working to solve global challenges.
4. Public Health Administration
   a. Public Health Administrator
   • Role: Public health administrators manage health programs at the local, national, or international level, focusing on improving public health outcomes through policy, program management, and healthcare delivery.
   • Prospects: Public health administration offers opportunities to work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or international health bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO).
   b. Healthcare Policy Analyst
   • Role: Healthcare policy analysts evaluate healthcare policies, propose reforms, and analyze the impacts of healthcare laws and regulations.
   • Prospects: Healthcare policy analysts are critical in shaping healthcare reforms, and their roles often intersect with government, non-profits, and healthcare organizations.
5. Environmental Policy and Management
   a. Environmental Policy Analyst
   • Role: Environmental policy analysts assess and develop policies related to environmental protection, sustainability, and natural resource management.
   • Prospects: Environmental policy is a growing field with opportunities to work in government, non-profits, international organizations, and private sector companies focusing on sustainability and environmental regulations.
   b. Sustainability Manager
   • Role: Sustainability managers work within government or businesses to develop and implement policies that promote environmental stewardship, resource conservation, and sustainable practices.
   • Prospects: Sustainability is a high-growth area, with increasing demand for experts who can bridge the gap between business operations and environmental responsibility.
6. Education Administration
   a. School District Administrator
   • Role: School district administrators oversee public education systems, manage budgets, and implement educational policies at a district or state level.
   • Prospects: There are strong career prospects in educational administration, with opportunities to shape education systems, improve student outcomes, and manage large-scale public education initiatives.
   b. University Administrator
   • Role: University administrators manage academic programs, student services, and financial operations within institutions of higher education.
   • Prospects: University administration offers opportunities to work in public or private higher education institutions, overseeing various operational areas such as admissions, financial aid, or student affairs.
7. Public Safety and Emergency Management
   a. Emergency Management Director
   • Role: Emergency management directors are responsible for preparing communities for natural disasters, coordinating response efforts, and managing recovery plans.
   • Prospects: As natural disasters and public safety concerns grow, emergency management offers significant opportunities in government agencies, non-profits, and the private sector.
   b. Public Safety Administrator
   • Role: Public safety administrators manage the operations of public safety agencies, such as police, fire, and emergency medical services, ensuring public welfare through strategic planning and resource allocation.
   • Prospects: Public safety administration is a stable and impactful career path, with opportunities to rise through government ranks to senior management positions.
8. Private Sector and Consulting
   a. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager
   • Role: CSR managers lead corporate efforts to improve social and environmental impact, ensuring businesses are accountable to both shareholders and stakeholders.
   • Prospects: As more companies focus on sustainability and ethical business practices, CSR managers are becoming increasingly important in shaping corporate policies and public relations strategies.
   b. Public Sector Management Consultant
   • Role: Management consultants specializing in public sector reforms advise governments and public agencies on improving efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and service delivery.
   • Prospects: Public sector management consulting is a high-growth field, with opportunities to work in leading consulting firms, international organizations, and government bodies.

What is the expected salary range for graduates?

• Malaysia: Starting salaries range from MYR 60,000 to MYR 100,000 per annum, depending on experience and industry.

• International: Salaries vary widely; research specific regions for accurate figures.

Tuition Fee and Scholarship

What are the tuition fees for local and international students?

For details about the tuition fees, kindly email admission@lincoln.edu.my or imd@lincoln.edu.my or finance@lincoln.edu.my

Am I eligible for a scholarship, and if so, what amount of scholarship am I eligible for?

For details about our scholarship schemes, kindly email admission@lincoln.edu.my or imd@lincoln.edu.my or finance@lincoln.edu.my

Is this course eligible for MARA or PTPTN funding?

Yes, for details, kindly email admission@lincoln.edu.my or imd@lincoln.edu.my or finance@lincoln.edu.my

Alumni Network

Can I access the alumni network?

Yes, as a graduate of Master of Public Administration program, you will have lifelong access to our global alumni network, which includes thousands of professionals across various industries and regions. The alumni network offers invaluable resources for networking, career opportunities, and continuous learning, and we host regular alumni events and reunions to help you stay connected.

What are the alumni doing now?

Our Master of Public Administration program has produced many distinguished alumni who have gone on to lead and innovate in their fields. For example, some of them have become CEOs of global firms, and some working as partner in major consulting firms. We also have alumni who have become successful entrepreneurs, launching startups such in the fintech industry. Some of them have joined prestigious universities in Canada, New Zealand, or Germany for further studies. Our alumni continue to make significant impacts in various sectors worldwide.

What industries do graduates typically work in?

Our graduates pursue careers across a wide range of industries, including finance, consulting, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, consumer goods, and non-profit sectors. Many graduates also find opportunities in emerging fields such as sustainability, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation. The diverse skill set provided by the Master of Public Administration prepares students to succeed in both traditional and rapidly evolving industries.

Are there opportunities to stay involved with the program after graduation?

Yes, there are numerous ways for alumni to stay engaged with the Master of Public Administration program. Alumni are invited to participate in networking events, mentorship programs, guest lectures, and alumni reunions. We also encourage alumni to contribute to the growth of the program by serving on advisory boards, offering internships, and recruiting new graduates for their organizations. Additionally, our alumni have lifetime access to career services and continued learning opportunities through workshops and webinars.