This article provides an overview of the development of master of public administration (MPA) programs in the United States. Specifically, it examines MPA curricula in a longitudinal manner and analyzes the factors that have motivated and facilitated changes in MPA courses and content. Building on a review of relevant literature and documents on the MPA curricula, the article evaluates how well the current course content of MPA programs in the United States prepare graduates to deal with the needs of public service at the managerial level. The article concludes by offering suggestions to MPA program designers about how to build a better MPA programs that will provide graduates with a foundation for continued professional development in changing environments.
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