MPA/MSA Program Survey of Columbus State University Alumni

294 Pages·2002·10.5 MB·English

by  Frix, Judith A.

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A THESIS
Submitted by Judith A. Frix
in partial fulfillment ofthe requirements
for the degree ofMaster ofPublic Administration
Accepted by the thesis committee:
Terry D. N0rris, chair date
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William Chappell^
Received by the program director:
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William Chappell date

MPA/MSA PROGRAM SURVEY
of
COLUMBUS STATE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI
By
Judith A. Frix
Bachelor ofScience, Columbus State University July 24, 2002
Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfillment
ofthe Requirements for the Degree
MASTER OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
2002

ABSTRACT
Questionnaires were mailed to all Columbus State University MPA/MSA alumni,
and the responses were used to evaluate alumni perception of the program. Survey
questions included: indication of the alumni option area; selection and evaluation of
program objectives; relationship of the degree to the objective; year of graduation;
perceived importance ofthe degree to life success;job status during and after completion
of the degree; rankings of curriculum, support facilities, and advising; value of degree
versus the cost of acquiring the degree; the fulfillment of learning expectations; career
goals reached through program training; contribution of the program to the general
knowledge of administrative practices and issues; contribution of program to the
individual's ability to analyze, devise, deal with, communicate, and make effective
decisions; which skills were ranked as the most helpful; program impact on the
individual's ability and/or perspectives; and whether there is a need for further education
in connection with career development. The survey found overall satisfaction in the
Columbus State University MPA/MSA program. Health Service Administration alumni
did not have as high an approval rating as did General Government Administration or
Justice Administration alumni responses. The greatest dissatisfaction was found in job
placement upon receiving the degree. Responses expressed a need to review courses
related to budgeting and financial administration. The majority ofrespondents had high
commendation andpraise for the program.