A Master of Public Administration (MPA) is a master’s degree focused on public affairs, preparing graduates to hold executive roles in municipal, state, and federal government, as well as non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
Key Takeaways
- An MPA degree provides the training necessary for executive-level positions within government and non-profits.
- The MPA is akin to an MBA but tailored for the public sector.
- It’s an ideal degree for individuals aiming for global careers.
- Applicants need a bachelor’s degree for enrollment in MPA programs.
- MPA graduates often secure top-tier management jobs.
Understanding the Master of Public Administration (MPA)
An MPA is comparable to a Master of Business Administration (MBA) within the public sector and is closely related to a Master of Public Policy (MPP), although the focus varies. MPP is more centered on policy analysis and design, while MPA focuses on program execution.
Many institutions offer intertwined J.D. (law degree) and MPA or dual MBA/MPA programs. The core curriculum revolves around public administration principles, policy development and implementation, readying candidates to tackle specific public administration challenges.
To pursue an MPA, candidates must have an undergraduate degree. Important pre-requisites include leadership abilities and proficiency in economic and quantitative analysis.
Graduating with an MPA empowers students to apply for various top-management roles in government, nonprofits, global NGOs, and private sectors, becoming public policy advocates and researchers.
Course Requirements
MPA candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree, usually from an accredited college or university. Moreover, many MPA programs require taking the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) prior to application. The multidisciplinary curriculum often spans economics, sociology, law, anthropology, and political science.
Typically, obtaining an MPA takes two years. However, some accelerated executive MPA programs for mid-career professionals might take one year. A few programs offer a Doctor of Public Administration (D.P.A.), a terminal degree typically aimed at researchers, comparable to a Ph.D.
To gauge earning potential, for instance, the average starting salary spans $135k-$250k per year according to Glassdoor (as of February 2024). Specific roles like political scientists start at a median annual salary of about $128,020 based on 2022 data.
Career Applications
MPA graduates are equipped for leadership roles in various sectors—public, private, or nonprofit. These professionals are knowledgeable in diverse areas such as policy, law, business, and management, starting often in roles like analysts or program managers which can blossom into executive positions.
Experienced MPA holders usually transition directly into senior-level roles. They are valuable assets due to their policy and economics know-how in private, nonprofit, and public sectors.
MPA degrees offer avenues into myriad career paths including human rights groups, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, radio and media, and international organizations.
Advantages and Disadvantages of an MPA Degree
Getting an MPA degree involves time and financial investment but comes with unique benefits and challenges.
Pros:
- Opens doors to varied and high-paying careers, including international jobs.
- Interesting coursework spanning multiple disciplines.
- No specific undergraduate degree is required.
Cons:
- Can be expensive based on the program chosen.
- Jobs can be demanding with long hours and stress.
- High competition for desirable roles.
History of the MPA Degree
The MPA began at the University of Michigan in 1914 to boost municipal government efficiency and curb corruption, later led by Harvard’s John F. Kennedy School and Princeton’s Woodrow Wilson School amid the Great Depression, reinforced further by President Roosevelt’s New Deal initiatives amplifying the need for skilled managers.
MPA vs MBA
Choosing between an MPA or MBA hinges on your career focus—public policy interests align more with an MPA, whereas business-centered goals suit an MBA. While MBAs often land in financial sectors, MPAs thrive in government, nonprofits, and policy roles. Both degrees can lead to international opportunities and neither is definitively superior.
Top MPA Programs
Top U.S. MPA Programs in 2023:
- Indiana University–Bloomington, Bloomington, IN (#1 Tie, Peer Score: 4.5)
- Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY (#1 Tie, Peer Score: 4.5)
- Harvard University, Cambridge, MA (#3, Peer Score: 4.3)
- University of California–Berkeley, Berkeley, CA (#4 Tie, Peer Score: 4.2)
- University of Michigan–Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor, MI (#4 Tie, Peer Score: 4.2)
- University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA (#4 Tie, Peer Score: 4.2)
Career Opportunities for MPA Graduates
MPA holders can explore fields such as government administration, policy analysis, program management, nonprofit management, international development, and urban planning.
Work Experience Needs for MPA
While not always mandated, professional experience in relevant fields highly strengthens an MPA candidacy.
Time to Obtain an MPA Degree
Generally, an MPA takes two years to complete, with accelerated options available for those aiming to finish within a year.
Curriculum of an MPA
MPA programs typically cover law, international affairs, political theory, urban planning, nonprofit operations, and leadership in public service.
The Bottom Line
The MPA is a comprehensive degree for aspiring professionals in public service, suitable for those aiming to make significant impacts in governmental and non-governmental spheres, with a rich curriculum and vast career opportunities leading to some of the top global universities offering the program.
Related Terms: MBA, public policy, NGO.
References
- Glassdoor. “MPA Salaries”.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook. “Political Scientists”.
- National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration. “About NASPAA”.
- University of Michigan, Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy. “About Us”.
- Princeton School of Public and International Affairs. “History”.
- John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. “About”.
- MPADegree.org. “Guide to a Master’s Degree in Public Administration”.
