5 Reasons to Earn a Master’s in Public Administration

5 Benefits of Earning a Master’s in Public Administration

• Build Management and Leadership Skills
• Learn a Variety of Subjects
• Opportunity to Attain Important Government Positions
• Good Starting Wage
• More Flexibility in the Job Market

There are many reasons to earn a Master’s in Public Administration (MPA). The MPA degree holds the same clout in government and the public service sector as the MBA holds in the business world. It’s the degree of choice for candidates who want careers in policy-making, public management and the nonprofit sector. It is especially ideal for those who want management positions where they can make policies, manage public funds and be responsible for the success of a company. Here are five reasons to earn a Master’s in Public Administration.

1. Build Management and Leadership Skills

Jobs in public administration require strong leadership skills, and candidates already in public service careers will need to enhance their leadership skills if they wish to advance their careers. A Master’s in Public Administration is perfect for this because it includes a curriculum aimed at public leaders and managers. It also focuses on leadership positions involving managing people, managing public funds and creating policies within the organization. To be considered for a management or leadership position in an organization, a Master’s in Public Administration is a must.

2. Learn a Variety of Subjects

Unlike some degrees that offer a few different subjects, the Master’s in Public Administration offers a wide variety of subjects designed to educate students on a wide range of topics. Students will take courses in communications, administration economics, legal, finance and administration to name just a few. Students who are interested in learning about many different topics or subjects often feel a career in public administration is an ideal choice. The courses learned in this program can also be extremely useful in other careers should the candidate wish to change paths at some point.

3. Opportunity to Attain Important Government Positions

A Master’s in Public Administration is the degree earned by some of the world’s most important government officials. Becoming a police commissioner, county executive, research analyst, international finance manager and even Cabinet member for the President are just a few of the many choices for someone with a Master’s in Public Administration. Some may even find positions working in the United Nations. The MPA has a focus on not just people management and communication but also public organization and policy, and all of these things prepare students for positions in government.

4. Good Starting Wage

Wages may not be the main reason why an individual would choose to earn a Master’s in Public Administration, but it plays an important role because good wages are possible for graduates of a Master’s in Public Administration. The MPA degree prepares students to take on more responsibility in leadership positions, which generally equates to a higher salary. It’s not unusual for an MPA graduate to start with a salary ranging from $30000 to $50,000 and earning six figures after a few years. This applies to working in both government and nonprofit roles.

5. More Flexibility in the Job Market

Earning an MPA opens up many career opportunities, and candidates may work in education, healthcare administration, urban planning, international development, politics and a variety of government roles. There are just so many roles surrounding both government and public service that are available to graduates of the MPA. Although we typically think of MPA graduates working for the government, it’s not their only option. Many put their MPA to use by working for private corporations.

Related Resource: 25 Best Affordable Master’s of Public Administration Online Degrees

Earning a master’s degree in public administration offers various jobs in public service not only internationally but abroad as well according to U.S. News & World Report. Graduates are qualified to pursue careers where they can become leaders of the world and work in areas that are challenging and rewarding with seldom a dull moment!