An advanced degree in public administration can prepare you for a wide range of careers in government service and nonprofit management. Here’s a look at three potential career areas for those with a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree.

 

1. Public Policy and Governance

Professionals who are employed in the public policy and governance field will conduct research, work in government agencies, assess public policy initiatives, and develop policy. MPA graduates often pursue public policy leadership positions or are making a career change into the public policy sector.

Sought-after skills in this area include:

  • Knowledge of strategic management and planning processes.
  • Ability to analyze policy decisions and evaluate the efficiency of these programs.
  • In-depth understanding of how government sectors work together to achieve program goals.

Degree that May Help Get You There: Master of Public Administration (MPA) in Public Policy and Governance

Career Opportunities:

  • Program analyst or coordinator
  • Government affairs executive
  • Urban planner
  • Public service manager or director
  • City manager

 

 2. Community Management

Professionals who work in community management oversee public administrative resources and ensure community agencies are working together toward common goals. In this field, professionals establish collaborative networks, promote ethical performance standards, and craft solutions to public protection, policy, and governance challenges.

Sought-after skills in this sector include:

  • Ability to manage administrative resources effectively.
  • Understanding of how to develop solutions based on sound economic analysis and citizen involvement.
  • Experience implementing equitable solutions for diverse populations.

Degree that May Help Get You There: Master of Public Administration (MPA)

Career Opportunities:

  • Economic development manager
  • Fundraising and development manager
  • Government relations manager
  • Parks and recreation manager

 

3. Nonprofit Management and Leadership

Professionals in areas of nonprofit management and leadership must be able to think critically about the complex challenges associated with today’s nonprofit world. They are expected to provide organizational leadership and be adept at fundraising and data analysis to move the nonprofit forward.

Sought-after skills in this sector include:

  • Understanding of roles and responsibilities of nonprofit board of directors.
  • Ability to analyze ethical and legal implications of data use, collection, evaluation, and integration.
  • Knowledge to apply strategic methods and techniques to areas of philanthropic support, fundraising, grant writing, and grant management.

Degree That May Help Get You There: Master of Public Administration (MPA) in Nonprofit Management and Leadership

Career Opportunities:

  • Nonprofit or program manager
  • Executive director
  • Social and community service manager
  • Director of community engagement
  • Fundraising or volunteer coordinator

 

Learn more about Capella’s Master’s in Public Administration degree programs.

Important Information about the educational debt, earnings, and completion rate of students who attended these programs.