NACOGDOCHES, Texas -The Stephen F. Austin State University Department of Government's online master's degree in public administration has been named among College Values Online's top 30 best values for 2016-17.

College Values Online is an aggregator that helps prospective students find a college that best suits their needs. SFA's master's in public administration received its top 30 ranking from College Values Online by comparing tuition rates to the degree's potential return of investment.

"Graduates from our online master's degree in public administration program have a 100-percent placement rate," said Dr. Richard Herzog, master's in public administration program director. "Our program emphasizes hands-on learning, including a required capstone project, which can help students find employment because the capstone project is directly related to the student's professional interest and demonstrates the graduate's competency in public administration."

College Values Online notes that online Master of Public Administration programs are popular because the prospective students are generally professionals looking to enhance their careers. SFA's online program was created for the same purpose.

"Most of our students are mid-career and looking for better career advancement prospects," Herzog said. "That's why we decided to offer an online master's in public administration. An online learning environment suits students' needs across the state of Texas much better than a traditional program."

For more information about SFA's online master's degree in public administration, contact Dr. Richard Herzog at rherzog@sfasu.edu, or visit the program's website at http://www.sfasu.edu/government/123.asp.