Programme Requirements

The minimum candidature period for the MPA is 1 year and the maximum is 4 years. Within that time, you must earn at least 40 graduate-level modular credits (MCs) by completing at least 10 modules, comprising 6 core modules (24 MCs) and 4 electives (16 MCs). Most full-time MPA students read 4 modules each in the 2 regular semesters and 2 modules in the Special Term, which is a condensed semester that runs from mid-May to mid-July. You may apply to read electives (up to 8 MCs) taught in other programmes within NUS. Full-time students may read a maximum of 5 modules per regular semester and 2 in the Special Term. Part-time students may read a maximum of 2 modules per regular semester and 1 in the Special Term.

Capstone Examination

The capstone examination is an intensive, week-long, integrative exercise held in the Special Term. You will be expected to demonstrate your ability to apply the concepts you have learned in the core curriculum to a complex real-world problem described in a case study. Your response may be required in the form of a memo or a report.

Continuation and Termination

To remain in the programme, you must maintain a good Cumulative Average Point (CAP) throughout your candidature. Your CAP must not fall below 2.5 (equivalent to C+) for 2 consecutive semesters or 3.0 (equivalent to B-) for 2 consecutive semesters and the special term. If you fail a core module, you must retake and pass that module in the next semester/term. If you fail an elective module, you may apply to retake the module or take another module in the next semester/term. If you fail any module on the second attempt, or fail 3 modules in the course of the programme, you will be required to leave the programme.

To graduate with the MPA, you must pass the capstone examination and obtain at least a CAP of 3.0 for the best 40 graduate-level MCs, inclusive of the 6 core modules or modules approved by the School.