UNC MPA: Continuing the Legacy of Intentional Admissions
The School of Government's Master of Public Administration program is proud to be ranked among the top 20 programs nationally for public affairs, 9th in public management, and 2nd in local government by U.S. News & World Report. This recognition is built upon a deeper purpose: preparing public service leaders whose work transforms organizations, communities, and lives across North Carolina and beyond.
This year, we welcome Natalie Larson, the new director of admissions and student recruitment, to the MPA team. Larson works closely with prospective students interested in the Master of Public Administration program, advising them through the admissions process. Larson comes to UNC with a rich background in helping students navigate the next step of their educational journey. Her career began as an admissions counselor at Drake University, which led her to rise through the ranks in undergraduate and graduate admissions at universities such as Elon University and UNC Wilmington. Larson was able to extend her reach as a client strategist with Spark 451, where she partnered with institutions across the country on marketing, communications, and CRM strategies aligned with enrollment goals.
Reflecting on her philosophy of admissions, Larson shared, “I am excited to be part of a program that shares my commitment to a holistic application evaluation. The MPA program admission approach aligns with my own values—while it is important to consider a student's transcript and academic history; we want to make sure they are set up for success given the academic rigor of this program. I think it also comes down to why. Why are they interested in public services? And is an MPA program the best path to reach their public service goals?” Ensuring that someone has a chance to consider how an MPA can help them achieve their “why” is one reason active engagement throughout the process from admissions professionals, such as Larson, is so important. She understands that each MPA candidate is starting from a different point in their journey. “What I love about admissions is finding the things that really matter to an individual and then sharing the program through that lens. It's about making those connections, intentionally sharing the stories of our current students and alumni in authentic ways, so prospective students can see themselves in the program and determine if it's the right fit for them.”
Larson notes, “I am thrilled to be joining the UNC MPA team and to be part of the School of Government, building upon the legacy of intentional and committed faculty and staff who aim to prepare the next generation of public service leaders. In my short time at the School, I have been inspired to see how the MPA alumni live the mission of being public service leaders. There is no shortage of examples of people making a meaningful impact with this degree.”
Applications are now open for the on campus and online Fall 2027 cohort, as well as the online Spring 2027 cohort.
Published August 12, 2026