National Urban Fellows' leadership development program is a rigorous, 14-month, full-time graduate degree program comprising two semesters of academic course work and a nine-month mentorship assignment. Fellows receive a $25,000 stipend, health insurance, a book allowance, relocation and travel reimbursement, and full payment of tuition, in addition to their ongoing personal and professional development.

The program culminates in a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from the City of New York's Bernard M. Baruch College, School of Public Affairs. During the mentorship, Fellows complete course work via distance learning. An MPA degree is awarded to Fellows upon completion of all academic and program requirements.

Following graduation, Fellows become part of a prestigious group of well over 1,000 multicultural, multiracial alumni who are graduates of the National Urban Fellows program and who are effecting positive changes in communities nationally and internationally. Individually and collectively, they are helping to create an equitable and just society while serving as role models for future generations.

Fellows apply their expertise in the public sector, contributing their newly acquired leadership skills to public service for the betterment of their communities and the nation. They return to their former or new occupations more experienced in public policy decision-making and are better prepared to make a strong commitment to equity and social justice, thereby fulfilling the mission of the program. Finally, Fellows give back to the organization that supported them, recognizing that their ongoing commitment, engagement and involvement and/or annual giving will help to secure the future of National Urban Fellows.