I originally chose the University of Illinois at Chicago for my doctorate work due to the proximity of the campus for me personally since I was still working in local government in the Chicago area during my first two years of the program.  But I quickly came to recognize the quality of the program and it relevance to me personally after thirty years of practical experience.  The quality of the professors and the quality of the program are exceptional.  The professors are willing to spend time and energy with the doctoral candidates to make their experience at UIC top notch.  I cannot express highly enough my regard for the program.
Karl Nollenberger, PhD

My decision to enter the PhD program in Public Administration at UIC was the most important one I've made throughout my career in public service. The experience proved to be both exceptionally difficult and tremendously rewarding.  The rigor of the program prepares you to excel.  This is an important, unique and distinguished program and one that I am proud to be affiliated with.
Margaret LaPorte, PhD

The MPA program provided me with a well-rounded graduate experience. The opportunity to work as a research assistant in CUPPA’s Survey Research Lab not only covered my tuition costs but also landed me a position as a Project Coordinator in the Lab when I graduated.  The courses offered and the unique student body make the program unlike any other. I was taught by not only professors who are active scholars in the PA field but also experienced adjunct professors from the professional community. I never felt unwelcome among the student body which consists of full-time students like myself who are straight from undergrad, full time students who have worked for years in another field or sector and part-time students who are full-time employees in the public sector. This combination facilitated broad class discussions with an array of perspectives and experiences. I also had the opportunity to take degree courses in CUPPA’s master’s program in Urban Planning. Learning the bridge between the two fields has proven very useful to my current field.
Kara Pennoyer, MPA

My graduate experience in the UIC Department of Public Administration prepared me for my role in higher education as well as equipped me with the tools necessary to lead change and innovative management in other government and nonprofit organizations. The blend of current theory and applied knowledge is a strength of the UIC curriculum. The faculty are leaders in public administration research and engage students in thoughtful dialogue and challenging projects. The administrative staff is very encouraging and offers great support and service to students.
Anna Baccellieri, MPA

“I decided to attend UIC for my master’s in public administration because of the strong faculty at CUPPA. Their expertise exceeded my expectations and their individual attention helped me make the most of my graduate degree. They provided invaluable career advice and helped me pursue my research interests outside of class. I also really enjoyed learning from my classmates, many of whom worked for local, state and federal government agencies or non-profit organizations. Their work experience and dedication to public service impressed, informed and inspired me throughout my academic career at UIC. The field of public administration/service/policy is certainly growing and there are many options when it comes to this area of study. I think CUPPA is uniquely positioned to train the next generation of public servants because of its excellent faculty, strong student body and urban setting.”
Richard Payton, MPA

I chose the MPA Program at UIC because of its location in the heart of a major metropolitan area, its reputation within the region, and the caliber of the professors within the college.  The professors and staff within the MPA program demonstrated a genuine concern with the success and education of their students.  They did not hesitate to take the extra time to address student concerns, promote further learning opportunities, and encourage innovation while continuing to deliver superior research on new methods in the field.  Each professor is truly a leader in his/her field and that wealth of knowledge is evident in the classroom through the passion demonstrated for the subject matter.
This program provided me with the understanding and tools necessary to improve government services while remaining innovative in an ever changing environment. But the learning did not end on graduation day.  The CUPPA Alumni Association presents tremendous opportunities to recent graduates to engage with industry leaders as well as effectively network within the field.  I highly recommend that those individuals interested in a career in public service consider this program.
Leonard B. Cannata, MPA