How an MPA prepares for a range of impactful careers
An MPA prepares you to effectively lead and manage teams within public organizations where you’ll shape policy and develop programs that serve communities at the local, national and global level. Your coursework will focus on leadership strategies, strengthening your ability in ethical decision making and efficient organizational management. Additionally, you’ll further your knowledge of policy analysis, program evaluation and understanding the financial components of public administration.
Justin Stritch, an associate professor at Arizona State University’s School of Public Affairs, noted that an MPA’s curriculum focuses on developing the managerial and analytical skills essential for careers dedicated to the public good.
"There’s a lot of flexibility with an MPA degree,” Stritch noted. “Public service employers see the MPA as a signal that you have the knowledge and training required to lead in a public service setting in a way that’s transferable across different functional areas.”
Jobs you could pursue with an MPA
Depending on your educational and professional experiences, here are some careers this master’s program may prepare you for. Included is the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data for the median annual wage for the roles as of May 2023, and the projected growth in employment for these roles from 2023-2033.
- Administrative services and facilities manager: Oversee operations to ensure business efficiency.
- $104,900
- Projected 6% job growth (Faster than the average for all occupations)
- Budget analyst: Optimize financial planning for public and private organizations.
- $84,940
- Projected 4% job growth (As fast as average)
- Compliance officer: Ensure organizations follow regulations and ethical standards.
- $75,670
- As fast as average job growth of 5%
- Data scientist: Leverage technology to analyze data and drive decisions.
- $108,020
- Projected 36% job growth (Much faster than average)
- Fundraising specialist: Develop and manage fundraising initiatives for nonprofits and campaigns.
- $64,160
- Projected 6% job growth (Faster than average)
- Management analyst: Improve efficiency and productivity in a variety of organizations.
- $99,410
- Projected 11% job growth (Much faster than average)
- Market research analyst: Analyze trends and consumer behavior to inform your company’s strategy.
- $74,680
- Projected 8% job growth (Faster than average)
- Medical and health services manager: Plan, direct, and coordinate the business activities of healthcare providers.
- $110,680
- Projected job growth of 29% (Much faster than average)
- Political scientist: Research and advise on policy, government, and political strategy.
- $132,350
- Projected 3% job growth (As fast as average)
- Public relations specialist: Shape and maintain the public image of organizations.
- $66,750
- Projected 6% job growth (Faster than average)
- Social and community service manager: Coordinate and supervise programs and organizations that support public well-being.
- $77,030
- Projected 8% job growth (Faster than average)
- Urban and regional planner: Design and implement plans for sustainable community growth.
- $81,800
- Projected 4% job growth (As fast as average)
Earn your MPA online with Arizona State University
ASU Online’s Master of Public Administration equips you for leadership roles in public service, nonprofit organizations and private-sector entities that serve the public good. This master’s degree provides you with the leadership and analytical skills needed to navigate complex public service environments.
Your coursework will blend political, managerial and legal approaches to policy, preparing you to lead change, analyze ethical dilemmas and manage scrutiny in public organizations. Core coursework focuses on public management, financial management, human resource management and leadership strategies, while electives allow you to pursue your personalized goals.
“The MPA curriculum focuses on developing the managerial and analytical skills essential for careers dedicated to the public good,” said Stritch. “You can use your elective courses to tailor the program to meet your professional interests.”
Learn from globally recognized faculty at a university committed to innovation and excellence. ASU's MPA gives you the skills, flexibility and leadership training to drive meaningful change, wherever your career takes you.