SMU’s online programs are investments toward the career you want. Review the full cost and options that may help you fund your degree.
One clear tuition rate for all three programs
The online M.H.A., M.P.A. and M.P.P. each require 36 credits and share the same tuition rate: $1,000 per credit, for $36,000 in total tuition before fees.
Tuition and fees
| Cost per credit hour | $1,000 |
| Total credits | 36 |
| Total tuition* | $36,000 |
| Student deposit | $300 |
| Immersion fee | $350 |
| Distance learning fee* | $100 per credit hour |
Tuition and fees are subject to change.
*The distance learning fee is not included in the total tuition price and will be added to each course per credit hour.
Tuition reductions for qualified applicants
Eligible students may receive the following tuition reductions:
10%
For employees of participating AllCampus Workplace organizations
An enrollment specialist can help you determine whether your employer or SMU affiliation qualifies.
Request information
To download a program brochure and learn more about the Master of Healthcare Administration, Master of Public Administration and Master of Public Policy programs offered by SMU, please fill out the form. You can also get in touch with an enrollment specialist directly by calling us at 469-871-6018.
Ways to fund your degree
Students enrolled in SMU’s online M.H.A., M.P.A. or M.P.P. are encouraged to request federal and state financial aid by completing their FAFSA.
SMU’s FAFSA code is 003613
Please visit our 2025 budget reconciliation act update page for information pertaining to changes in the federal student loan programs that went into effect on July 1, 2026, for the 2026-2027 award year and forward.
For information about funding your graduate education, contact SMU’s Student Financial Services at GradFinAid@SMU.edu or 214-768-3417.
Graduate or Professional Student Maximum Annual Loan Limit:
$20,500
in Direct Unsubsidized Loan.
For more detailed information, visit www.studentaid.gov and connect with our financial services team.
Your employer may help pay for graduate education. Ask your human resources or benefits team whether tuition reimbursement is available, which expenses qualify and when reimbursement is issued.
You can also talk to an enrollment specialist to get advice on how to find this information.
SMU offers payment plans for fall and spring terms to help manage tuition costs. These plans allow you to pay your tuition charges in monthly, interest-free installments.
Military and veteran benefits
U.S. military service members, veterans and dependents may be eligible for various benefits through the GI Bill®. For the most comprehensive description, eligibility requirements and benefit information, please visit the Department of Veterans Affairs website.
Yellow Ribbon Program
SMU is proud to be a part of the Yellow Ribbon Program, an educational enhancement program that provides scholarship assistance to US veterans. Key details include:
- The Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program is part of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008. It allows U.S. institutions to partner with the VA to cover tuition expenses that exceed the annual private school tuition cap.
- Institutions may contribute up to 50% of the additional tuition costs, and the VA matches that amount.
- Scholarships, grants or other aid (excluding loans and Title IV funds) are deducted from the tuition/fees before submitting the remaining amount to the VA for certification.
- Dependents of eligible veterans qualified for Transfer of Entitlement under the Post-9/11 GI Bill®*. For more information, please visit the US Department of Veterans Affairs website.
Resources
Financial aid office contact info
For information about funding your graduate education, contact SMU’s Student Financial Services at GradFinAid@SMU.edu or 214-768-3417.
Frequently asked questions
SMU offers payment plans for fall, spring and summer terms to help manage tuition costs. These plans allow you to pay your tuition charges in monthly, interest-free installments.
Yes. Re-enrollment is required each term to continue with a payment plan. You cannot add an open balance from a previous term to a current payment plan.
Contact the Mane Desk at 214-768-5555 or email manedesk@smu.edu.
Have other questions about our programs?
An enrollment specialist can help you understand how the programs works and what to expect from application through enrollment.
