Keiser University

Public Administration (Doctoral)

Sarasota Campus
Doctoral Degree
Public Administration (Doctoral)
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Keiser University offers this program online.
$17,840 per semester. This program spans 4 semesters at full-time enrollment.
To receive a Doctor of Public Administration degree, students with a master’s degree must earn 44 graduate semester credit hours as described below. Depending on the transfer or credit and scheduling variables, the DPA program can be completed in as little as 2.5 years or less. Keiser University’s website lists a range of 24 to 36 months.
A one-time $55 application fee applies on enrollment (subject to annual review).
Keiser University participates in federal Title IV financial aid. Grants are not available at the graduate level, but federal student loans and scholarships are available to those who qualify.

Public Administration (Doctoral) is a Doctoral Degree program (100% Online) offered by Keiser University in Sarasota, FL. The program takes 24–36 Months to complete, with tuition of $17,840 per semester.

Program Overview

The Doctor of Public Administration program at Keiser University is designed for experienced professionals seeking to advance leadership in public and nonprofit sectors. The program provides an integrated foundation in governance, policy, leadership, ethics, and research methods. Graduates are prepared to serve as scholar-practitioners capable of leading organizational operations, designing and evaluating policy, and contributing research to the field.

What sets this Program apart

Keiser University states the goals of this program as follows.

  • The program’s primary objective is to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills, ensuring they are fully prepared to excel in the dynamic field of public administration. The program goals are:
  • Leadership Development. Cultivate advanced leadership theories and ethical governance practices to lead and implement transformative change in public sector organizations.
  • Research Proficiency. Design and conduct original research that offers evidence-based solutions to complex issues in public administration.
  • Governance and Public Policy: Enhance expertise in developing, evaluating, and implementing innovative public policies to address complex social and ethical issues.

Admission Requirements and Process

Applicants desiring to enter Keiser University must submit an application to the Admissions Office well in advance of the start date. This permits proper scheduling and ensures availability of classroom space. Applications for Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall semesters should be made as early as possible, as these entry dates are normally the time of greatest enrollment.

Keiser University may accept transfer credits from a college or university recognized by the by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE). Coursework must be equivalent in content, level, and credit hours to the corresponding Keiser University course/s.

Qualified, accepted doctoral degree seeking students may transfer a maximum of 18 graduate level credits, but no more than two-thirds of the total credit hours (whichever is less), required for the program unless otherwise specified by a programmatic accreditor.

Acceptable courses will be equivalent to a B grade or higher unless otherwise specified by programmatic requirements.

Keiser University requires that, at a minimum, a student complete at least one third of the credit hours required for any graduate or post-baccalaureate professional degree through instruction offered by Keiser University.

General Requirements

  • Three Years of Professional Experience
    DPA applicants will be required to have at least three years of professional work experience in a field related to public service.
  • Master’s Degree
    Students may enter the Doctor of Public Administration with a master’s degree from an accredited institution.
  • Graduate School Application
    Submit an application for admission to the Graduate School
  • Master’s or Doctoral Transcript
    Submission of an unofficial master's or doctoral transcript from an accredited school. If transcripts are in a foreign language, the student must provide proof of Foreign Language…
  • Official Master’s Transcript (3.0 GPA)
    Submission of official transcripts or original foreign evaluations showing successful completion of a master’s degree from an accredited college or university received within the…
  • Minimum 3.0 CGPA
    Minimum 3.0 CGPA
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae
    Resume or Curriculum Vitae indicating education and complete work history
  • Personal Statement
    A quality personal statement will include at minimum: life experiences, career outcomes, societal contributions, and educational achievements that may lead to success in…
  • GRE/MAT Scores Encouraged
    Students are encouraged to submit GRE/MAT scores in support of their application
  • Official Transcript Deadline
    Failure to provide an official transcript by the end of the first semester of attendance will lead to dismissal from the program and Graduate School.

Application Process

  1. 1
    Contact an Admissions Counselor
    Contact one of Keiser University’s friendly admissions counselors.
  2. 2
    Attend an Open House or Campus Visit
    Attend an Open House or plan a campus visit.
  3. 3
    Meet With Your Admissions Counselor
    Schedule a convenient time to meet with your admissions counselor to determine if Keiser University is right for you.
  4. 4
    Submit an Application
    Submit an application and complete your enrollment profile and application.
    Apply Now
  5. 5
    Review Program Requirements
    Review the Graduate School admission requirements for your program.
  6. 6
    Upload Your Admission Documents
    In the Student Enrollment Portal, click on “My Documents” and upload the corresponding documents to fulfil the admission requirements. Then submit the Letter of Recommendation Form and your Personal Statement.
  7. 7
    Schedule Your Financial Aid Appointment
    Your admissions counselor will connect you to your dedicated Financial Aid Officer to schedule your appointment and receive assistance completing the FAFSA. Keiser University’s FAFSA school code is 015159.
  8. 8
    Class Registration
    Once you have accepted your financial aid funding plan, the registrars will schedule your courses throughout your entire degree plan from start to completion.
  9. 9
    Order Books
    Your admissions counselor will assist you in ordering your books through the online bookstore. Standard receipt is 3–5 business days unless you order priority.
  10. 10
    Attend Orientation
    Online programs offer a self-paced orientation through Blackboard, or a scheduled live session before each class start date. For campus programs, speak with your admissions counselor about orientation requirements at your location.
  11. 11
    Begin Classes
    The class week runs Monday through Sunday, midnight EST. You must log in by Wednesday of week one to confirm attendance, and participate a minimum of three logins per week in the Blackboard classroom for each course.

Program Schedule

To receive a Doctor of Public Administration degree, students with a master’s degree must earn 44 graduate semester credit hours as described below. Depending on the transfer or credit and scheduling variables, the DPA program can be completed in as little as 2.5 years or less.
New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • October 26th, 2026
  • January 11th, 2027
  • March 08th, 2027
  • May 10th, 2027
  • July 05th, 2027

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information

Per Semester Tuition
≈ $17,840
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

Keiser University charges tuition and education fees per semester, based on scheduled credit hours. Each semester is 16 weeks. The rates below are the university’s published Tuition and Fee Disclosure for the Graduate School, effective Fall Semester 2026, and are subject to annual review.

Semester credit loadTuition per semester
Full time (12+ credits)$17,840.00
Three-quarter time (9 to 11.99 credits)$13,380.00
Half time (6 to 8.99 credits)$8,920.00
Less than half time (3 to 5.99 credits)$4,460.00

Required fees

  • Application fee — $55.00, one time on enrollment
  • Registration fee — $145.00, one time on enrollment
  • Education fee — $750.00 per semester, all graduate-level programs

Doctoral Residency 1 (on-campus training) is charged $1,000.00; students are responsible for the cost of their travel, accommodations, food, and other expenses associated with their residencies. Other fees are charged per occurrence: withdrawal $100.00, re-entry $150.00, late payment $10.00, returned check $35.00, student ID replacement $15.00 and library late fee $10.00.

Financial aid

Grants are not available at the graduate level, but federal student loans and scholarships are available to those who qualify. Students seeking aid complete the FAFSA using the university’s federal school code, 015159.

Curriculum

To receive a Doctor of Public Administration degree, students with a master’s degree must earn 44 graduate semester credit hours as described below. Depending on the transfer or credit and scheduling variables, the DPA program can be completed in as little as 2.5 years or less.

Doctoral students must complete one residency before Applied Doctoral Project Courses.

Required Courses

Subject #NameCredits
DPA700Advanced Foundations and Applied Theories of Public Policy & Administration3
DPA710Leadership and Change Management in Public Administration3
DPA720Public Sector Budgeting and Financial Decision Making3
DPA730Multi-Sector Governance and Intergovernmental Relations3
DPA740Transparency, Ethics, and Public Accountability3
DPA750Public Policy Analysis and Program Evaluation3
Graduate Elective3
Graduate Elective3
Graduate Elective3
RSM803Advanced Research Design3
RSM700Quantitative Research I3
RSM810Qualitative Research3
ADP900Applied Doctoral Project2

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Keiser University’s Doctor of Public Administration program are prepared to pursue senior leadership roles across government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and consulting practices. City Manager – Oversees municipal operations, budgeting, and community programs. Government Agency Director – Leads strategic planning and service delivery in state or federal agencies. Nonprofit Executive Director – Guides mission-driven organizations with accountability and innovation. Policy Advisor – Develops and evaluates policy initiatives for government or advocacy groups. Public Affairs Consultant – Provides strategic guidance on governance, regulation, and community relations. Research Fellow or Think Tank Analyst – Conducts studies to inform public administration best practices. University Faculty Member – Teaches and conducts research in public administration or policy. Leadership Coach or Trainer – Develops talent in public sector organizations.

What to expect as a Keiser University student

Keiser University’s Doctor of Public Administration program prepares professionals to advance their careers through graduate-level study and leadership in public and nonprofit sectors. With flexible online delivery and a curriculum grounded in Leadership Development, Research Proficiency, and Governance and Public Policy, this program prepares graduates to serve as scholar-practitioners capable of leading organizational operations, designing and evaluating policy, and contributing research to the field.

Campus Address

Sarasota Campus
6151 Lake Osprey Drive
Sarasota, FL 34240

Why Accreditation Is Important

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, educational specialist and doctorate degrees.

  • Eligible for federal Title IV financial aid
  • Credits earned toward a respected credential

Images

DPA Program
DPA Program
DPA Program

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I earn a Doctor of Public Administration online at Keiser University?
Yes. Keiser University’s Doctor of Public Administration program is offered online, allowing working professionals across the country to complete this online degree without relocating or stepping away from their careers.
What's the difference between a Doctor of Public Administration and a PhD in Public Administration?
A Doctor of Public Administration centers on applied practice, preparing graduates to lead and solve real problems inside government and nonprofit organizations. A PhD in Public Administration leans toward theoretical research and academic scholarship, often inside higher education. Both require advanced research skills, but a DPA points toward executive leadership roles while a PhD points more often toward research and teaching careers in higher education. Most doctoral programs in this field share a similar research foundation, which is why Keiser’s DPA still builds in advanced research design alongside its applied coursework. For a closer look at how the two credentials compare, see DPA vs. PhD in Public Administration .
What can I do with a Doctor of Public Administration degree?
Graduates pursue senior leadership roles such as city manager, government agency director, nonprofit executive director, policy advisor, and university faculty member, along with positions in program evaluation, public finance, and emergency management.
Who is a good fit for the DPA program?
The program suits mid-career and senior public sector managers, nonprofit leaders across public and nonprofit sectors, and policy practitioners who already hold a master’s degree and at least three years of professional experience in a public service-related field.
Can I transfer credits from another institution?
Keiser University’s Graduate School welcomes transfer credits from accredited institutions, subject to evaluation and approval. Key transfer credit policies include: Master’s degree students may transfer up to 12 graduate-level credits (master’s or doctoral level) from an accredited college or university, provided the courses are equivalent to relevant Keiser University courses. Doctoral degree students may transfer up to 18 graduate-level credits (master’s or doctoral level) with evaluation and approval. Undergraduate credits are not transferable to graduate-level programs. Credits from non-accredited institutions that are substantially equivalent in content may be granted on a course-by-course basis. Transfer credits from non-U.S. institutions are evaluated through an approved educational evaluator service confirming equivalency to coursework at a U.S. accredited institution. Acceptable courses must be equivalent to a grade of B or higher; courses with a Pass or Satisfactory grade may be considered at the discretion of the Dean. Credit transfer benefits : students who have earned credits at other institutions may be able to apply them toward their degree, helping reduce overall tuition costs and time to completion. Credit transfer is subject to evaluation and approval. For full details, refer to the Graduate School transfer of credit FAQ and Transfer Credits Policy
Is financial aid available for the DPA program?
Yes. Online students can access the same financial aid resources as campus-based students, including scholarships and tuition assistance programs. For more details, refer to the Graduate School Prospective Students FAQ .
Is the Doctor of Public Administration program accredited?
Keiser University is institutionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The SACSCOC accreditation ensures Keiser University meets rigorous quality standards, which is crucial for students as it affects access to federal financial aid and the transferability of credits to other accredited schools. This accreditation signifies that the institution adheres to standards that ensure educational quality and institutional effectiveness.
How long does it take to complete a Doctor of Public Administration?
The Doctor of Public Administration takes approximately 24 – 36 months to complete, depending on a part-time or full-time course schedule and the number of transfer credits applied. Contact the admissions team for a personalized timeline.
How much does it cost to earn a Doctor of Public Administration?
Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify, which can affect total tuition cost. For more detailed cost information, please contact an admissions counselor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs . For the latest tuition information, please view the University Graduate Catalog
What are the prerequisites for the Doctor of Public Administration program?
Students may enter the Doctor of Public Administration with a master’s degree from an accredited institution.
What is a Doctor of Public Administration (DPA)?
The DPA is a doctoral degree that prepares public administration professionals to lead and manage the complexities of governance and public policy. Keiser University’s program is designed for public and nonprofit professionals who want to be “pracademics” — connecting academic theory with real-world application.
How many credits can I transfer in?
Up to 18 credits of transfer credit may be applied. Transfer credit is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
What courses make up the program?
The curriculum is organised into Foundation Courses (18 credit hours), Research Courses (9 credit hours), Applied Doctoral Project Courses (8 credit hours), and Elective Courses (9 credit hours). The full course list appears in the Program Outline above.
What is the Applied Doctoral Project?
The Applied Doctoral Project accounts for 8 credit hours, completed as four courses at 2 credits each.
Is there a residency requirement?
Yes. Doctoral students must complete one Doctoral Residency prior to beginning the Applied Doctoral Project courses.
What careers does the DPA prepare me for?
Graduates pursue roles such as city manager, government agency director, nonprofit executive director, policy advisor, public affairs consultant, research fellow or think tank analyst, university faculty member, and leadership coach or trainer.
Ready to get started?
Apply to Public Administration (Doctoral) at Sarasota Campus.
Public Administration (Doctoral)