Master of Public Administration (MPA)

The Master of Public Administration is a professional graduate degree in public administration. It is quite similar to the Master of Business Administration but puts an immense amount of focus on the issues surrounding governance. It prepares the people to serve as anything from managers, executives and policy analysts in the executive sector in all levels of the government and also, in NGOs and nonprofit sectors in the economy.

Course Overview:

Recognition: Globally Recognized

Duration: 1-2 years (depending on the institution)

Specialisations Available: Homeland security, Non-profit Management, International affairs, Health, Criminal justice, Urban development, Transportation systems

Grading and Assessment: Varies based on country, university and subject
 

Eligibility:

It will be expected that you have the backing of a related program, such as politics, economics or business studies. Additionally, professional work experience in the area may be an added benefit if you do not have a degree in the said subjects.

MPP or MPA? Which one is right for you?

An MPA degree is primarily focused on managing programs that cater to public interests. It emphasises on the issues surrounding governance.
While an MPP is primarily focused on creating the policies that drive those programs. Policy-making lies in the forefront of doing a Master’s in Public Policy.

Why is a Master’s in Public Administration right for you?

The public sector offers jobs with blanket security and jobs that have an impact on large groups. Therefore, if you are someone who wants to channel events that work in public interest and for the larger good, a Master’s in Public Administration is your way to go. This is the best place to execute the public policies and bring them into action in real life.

In choosing the degree that is correct for you, ask yourself the following questions:

Subjects: What subjects you wish to study as it might only be offered in MPP or MPA

Curriculum: Review the course content and teaching style thoroughly, as an MPP vs. an MPA may vary significantly from university to university.

Career Options: Does the degree put you on a path to realising your career aspirations?

Entry Requirements: Do you have the appropriate entry requirements? E.g: Work experience or appropriate undergraduate degree..

Interests: Do your interests lie in the fields of policy-making and managing actions that work for public good?