If you're aspiring to a career in public management, policy analysis, or community leadership, an MPA can be just the step you need. In this article, we'll delve into the basics of an MPA, explain how it's different from MBA and MPP degrees, and explore potential career paths you can pursue with this degree.

What is an MPA?

An MPA, or Master of Public Administration, is a terminal degree meant to prepare you for a future career in public service within governmental or non-profit organizations. This degree is often seen as an alternative to an MBA, as both programs cover business, financial, and project management.

How long does it take to get an MPA?

Completing an MPA typically takes around 2 years for full-time students. Part-time and online options are also available, allowing you to tailor your studies to your own pace. Depending on your enrollment status and program schedule, you can complete your education in as little as 18 months or take up to 5 years.

Most degrees require you to submit a research project, like a thesis or a capstone project, which can sometimes extend your studies.

MPA coursework

The list of classes varies by program and depends on your chosen specialization. Generally, you can expect to study:

• Human resources
• Management
• Law
• Public policy and economics
• Professional development
• Ethics
• Marketing
• Accounting
• Non-profit governance

MPA specializations

Many universities offer the option to focus on a particular area of interest. The most popular specializations include:

• Non-profit management
• Ethical leadership
• Local government management
• Gender and public policy
• Global Leadership and Management

MPP vs MPA vs MBA

MBA, MPP, and MPA degrees are often viewed as similar or interchangeable. However, it's not quite true: each program serves a different purpose and is created for different professionals.

Master of Public Policy (MPP)

Program purpose: An MPP is designed to develop your research and data analysis skills for drafting new policies and assessing their impact on the organization.

MPP programs are usually focused on policy analysis and evaluation. The coursework mainly includes research design, data analysis, and statistics for cost/benefit evaluations and data modeling. MPP graduates often pursue careers in government agencies, research institutions, or consulting firms, specializing in policy analysis and development.

Master of Public Administration (MPA)

Program purpose: An MPA prepares you to lead or manage federal, state, and local government, non-governmental organizations, and non-profits.

Similarly to MPP and MBA programs, an MPA covers executive management and policy analysis. However, MPA programs teach you to primarily consider community outcomes and how to implement and promote solutions that would positively impact society.

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Program purpose: An MBA is developed for people specifically interested in business management, entrepreneurship, or advancement to upper-management positions.

An MBA is more focused on business outcomes, understanding business concepts, and maximizing profit for the company and value for the customers. Even though the courses for these degrees are similar, MBA programs emphasize commercial applications.

MPA degree careers

Many students pursue an MPA as a way to advance to higher positions, such as financial director or diplomat. There are 3 general sectors for careers you can pursue after graduation:

• Public sector: city halls, embassies, administrative offices, or law enforcement agencies
• Non-profit sector: charitable organizations, human rights groups, or public media
• Private sector: private firms and businesses

According to the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration, about 45% of MPA graduates work in government positions, 26% in non-profit organizations, and the remaining percentage in private firms.

Jobs in the public sector

• City manager: A city manager supervises multiple departments within a city's municipal government, such as accounting, budgeting, and purchasing. The average annual salary for this job is $98,000.
• Urban and regional planner: Urban planners create plans to optimize the use and efficiency of a community's land and infrastructure. These professionals earn around $63,000 per year.
• Director of economic development: Economic development directors oversee key tasks related to advancing their company's economic development. The average income for this position is $82,000 annually.
• Emergency management director: An emergency management director develops plans for protecting people and property from natural disasters or other emergencies. On average, they earn $80,000 per year.
• Policy analyst: Policy analysts change, adjust, or implement new public policies, regulations, and laws. This title can get you around $65,000 annually.

Jobs in the non-profit sector

• Executive director: An executive director holds the top-level position in a non-profit and guides the entire organization. On average, they earn $75,000 annually.
• Development director: A development director is in charge of fundraisers and ensuring that the organization has the necessary financial resources. These professionals have an average annual income of $73,000.
• Public relations manager: A PR manager is responsible for maintaining and improving the organization's public image. The average annual salary for PR managers is $77,000.
• Marketing director: A marketing director coordinates all marketing projects across the organization. The average annual earnings for this position are $98,000.

Jobs in the private sector

• Human resources manager: An HR manager oversees policies, procedures, and compliance related to employees for their company. On average, they earn $75,000 annually.
• Management analyst: Management analysts work closely with other departments to ensure efficiency and accuracy in all operations. This job can get you around $74,000 per year.
• Project manager: A project manager is in charge of all stages of a project: from planning to execution. On average, they have an annual salary of $73,000.

Keep in mind that certain jobs may also require professional certification or a license.

Note: Salary data is taken from Payscale.

Conclusion

An MPA is a graduate-level degree designed for individuals aspiring to serve the community through government or non-profit organizations. The program usually takes 2 years and offers an in-depth understanding of public administration alongside practical management and leadership skills.

MPA graduates have many opportunities – from working for the government to managing a marketing strategy at a private company. By offering the option to choose a specialization and providing broad foundational courses, an MPA allows you to approach public service in any way you want.

Read more:

• 5 Careers for Public Service Graduates
• Study Project Management for Career Freedom