Are you passionate about creating positive change in your community? Do you envision yourself leading organizations that make a meaningful impact on society? A Master's in Public Administration (MPA) offers a pathway to achieving these goals through advanced leadership training and practical policy experience.
Here's how a Master’s in Public Administration can help you achieve the impactful career you deserve.
What is Public Administration?
Public administration is a field that encompasses “various administrative services that help strengthen and support societies.” Public administration, or public admin, is achieved through government roles across the following levels:
- Nonprofit
- Local
- State
- Federal
Those who work in public administration are equipped to analyze all components of public policy programs to achieve constructive change (including budgets).
All in all, the public administration field covers:
- Labor relations and ethics
- Legislative relations
- Public policy management
- Financial management
- Public budgetary processes
Read this article to learn about the history of public administration (as far back as in ancient societies like Egypt and Rome).
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Who are you called to be?
Pursue your purpose at PLNU.
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What is a Master's in Public Administration?
A Master's in Public Administration is a graduate-level degree that prepares professionals to lead and manage organizations in both public and nonprofit sectors. This master’s level degree combines theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling graduates to address complex societal challenges while effectively managing resources and implementing policies.
Public Administration vs. Public Policy
Although the terms “public administration” and “public policy” are sometimes used interchangeably, it’s important to note these terms are not the same. The difference: Public policy focuses on the creation of policies, whereas public administration focuses on their implementation. Simple enough!
What Skills Will You Gain with an MPA degree?
An MPA program equips individuals with essential skills that are highly valued across various sectors. Some expected skills include:
Leadership and Management
- Strategic planning and decision-making
- Organizational behavior understanding
- Team building and supervision
- Resource allocation and budgeting
Policy Analysis and Implementation
- Public policy analysis
- Program evaluation
- Research methods
- Data-driven decision making
Communication and Collaboration
- Stakeholder engagement
- Public speaking
- Professional writing
- Cross-sector partnership building
What are the Benefits of an MPA degree?
Professionals may decide to pursue a public administration degree for many reasons. One key benefit of earning an MPA, however, is that it “helps employers understand more about your in-depth knowledge in the public administration field.”
MPAs can be useful in a variety of sectors, including specializations in:
- Healthcare
- International affairs & environment
- Education
- Finance
- Human rights & urban policy
Other benefits include increased job opportunities following program completion, increased chances of working in a leadership role or political office, increased salary, and enhanced networking opportunities.
In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), management positions in public service and nonprofit sectors increasingly require or prefer candidates with advanced degrees. With a median annual wage of $122,480 for management occupations as of May 2023, an MPA can significantly enhance your earning potential and career trajectory.
Careers in Public Administration
Considering the various specializations within public administration, there are many rewarding career paths a public admin professional can take. Here are some public administration jobs that you can qualify for with an MPA.
Government Administration
Graduates may secure rewarding careers in government agencies, where they shape and implement public policy. Potential roles within this specialization include:
- City or county manager
- Policy analyst
- Program director
- Budget administrator
Nonprofit Leadership
Many MPA grads work in nonprofit organizations, where they lead initiatives that directly impact communities. Potential roles within this specialization include:
- Executive director
- Development manager
- Program coordinator
- Grant writer
Healthcare Administration
Others pursue roles in healthcare institutions, private sector consulting, or international organizations, applying their public admin expertise to solve global challenges. Potential roles within this specialization include:
- Hospital administrator
- Healthcare policy director
- Public health manager
- Community health coordinator
Other public administration jobs may include human resources director, urban planner, or chief administrative officer.
Interested in learning more about what a future in public administration might look like? Read this article on the top 10 public administration careers.
Why Now is the Perfect Time to Pursue an MPA
So, you might be asking yourself: when is the right time to earn my master’s?
As mentioned above, earning an MPA can significantly enhance career opportunities in public service. This is important to consider as recent trends in public service, governance, and nonprofit sectors have only increased the demand for MPA graduates.
The public sector is experiencing a transformation that creates exciting opportunities for experienced administrators. In fact, the BLS projects significant growth in public administration-related fields—particularly in urban planning, health services management, and social services—where the demand for skilled leaders is increasing.
There's a growing demand for innovative leadership in public and nonprofit organizations, paired with an increased focus on data-driven decision-making. As such, organizations are actively seeking professionals who can navigate complex societal challenges while leveraging expanding opportunities in booming fields like sustainability and public health.
This growth, combined with PLNU's flexible online program format, makes it a perfect time for public administration professionals to advance their careers.
How PLNU Prepares You for Success with its MPA program
At PLNU, our online MPA program offers flexibility without compromising quality, and is designed to develop well-rounded public service leaders through:
Comprehensive Curriculum
Our program combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, preparing you to address real-world challenges effectively. Sample master’s level courses include:
- Negotiation and Conflict Resolution
- Foundations of Public Administration
- Cross-Sector Leadership and Collaboration
- Financial Management and Budgeting for Public Administration
- Policy Implementation and Program Evaluation
Students will also complete a capstone project working on active policy initiatives with highly regarded local organizations.
Experienced Faculty and Existing Networks
Learn from scholar-practitioners who bring both academic expertise and practical experience in public administration. Our faculty are deeply connected to San Diego organizations and have expertise in government relations, statistics, cross-sector collaborations, and more. During the program, you'll connect with professionals who share your passion, engage with industry leaders, and join a dynamic alumni network that works across various sectors.
Flexible Learning Format
Our fully online asynchronous program offers the flexibility to learn when and where you want while maintaining our high-quality standard for education. This flexible format allows you to learn at your own pace and balance your education with outside commitments and responsibilities.
Values-based Education
Develop ethical leadership skills grounded in PLNU's commitment to character and dedication to public service. Our MPA program emphasizes collaborative and ethical leadership, preparing students to navigate complex public service environments while upholding the highest standards of integrity.
Evidence-based Solutions
Our program equips professionals to deliver thorough analyses and develop corresponding solutions to pressing societal issues, with a strong focus on public policy considerations.
Whether you're looking to advance in your current role or transition to a new career in public service, PLNU's MPA program provides the knowledge, skills, and network opportunities you need to succeed. Our commitment to fostering cultural responsiveness and equity in all aspects of public administration ensures you'll be prepared to lead effectively in today's diverse environment.
Ready to take the next step toward making a meaningful impact in public service? Start your journey today. Contact our admissions team today to learn more about how PLNU's MPA program can help you achieve your goals.