The MPA in Public Administration (Finance) bridges theory and practice, enabling students to acquire the skills and understanding needed for effective management and strategy in government. The programme is delivered in a highly motivated international learning environment.

The MPA is an international Masters’ programme, aimed at people who are pursuing (or would like to pursue) a career in public administration in government, public enterprises or non-governmental organisations, whether at local, national or international level. The programme is particularly suitable for those working in finance ministries, finance sections within sectoral ministries, development banks, local government, public enterprises, aid providers, non-governmental organisations, and research and training organisations who wish to participate at a strategic level in financial management decisions.

The Finance pathway will enable managers in the public sector and not-for-profit sector to update and improve their practical skills and their understanding of financial and economic management. This will enable managers to participate in financial management at the strategic level in their organisation rather than to focus on detailed technical skills such as bookkeeping. This is primarily a public sector management, not a business management programme, although some of the themes covered are relevant to both sectors.

The approach taken within the programme is practical. Students will analyse cases, using real data as far as possible to provide them with skills in public economic and finance management. Theories and conceptual models where they help with the understanding and solving of practical problems will be introduced.

The programme will develop students' understanding of the role of the state in managing the economy and public finances; managing monetary, exchange rate, fiscal, trade and environmental policy; budgeting and control. It will consider the issues associated with working with the private sector; and, in designing, planning, financing and evaluating projects. New approaches to reform of financial management including performance budgeting and improving accountability will receive attention. There will be a special focus on decentralised service delivery reflecting IDD’s long experience on working in decentralised systems.

Any relevant subject may be chosen for the students' dissertation, with the final topic agreed between themselves and their assigned supervisor. It will allow students to make an in-depth study of a topic of interest to them.