To be eligible for admission to the MPA (M) program, an applicant must have a four year undergraduate degree with a B average or equivalent (as determined by Dalhousie University) in a recognized degree program or a master’s degree, plus at least five years’ experience in a relevant management position in the public service.
Relevant management experience — five to 10 years, but subject to a case-by-case review — plus a prior learning assessment may also be acceptable.
The Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is an intensive seminar and study process which enables candidates for the MPA (M) program to identify, organize and describe all their learning accomplishments, whether achieved through formal education or training, workplace experience or other activities. Particular attention will be given to those skills and competencies relevant to advanced study in public administration.
PLA participants will create a portfolio of their achievements and abilities that will be assessed by School of Public Administration faculty as part of the admission process. A PLA helps the student prepare for graduate studies and serves as a valuable tool in the planning of future professional and career development. For more information please vist the PLA Centre's website at: http://www.placentre.ns.ca/index2.php