You Are the Difference
A Master of Public Administration (MPA) is the accepted professional credential for those working in the public sector. By earning this degree, you can gain the competencies required to become an effective and in-demand leader with the flexibility to succeed in careers across multiple sectors. Choose from two graduate certificate options or the MPA and take part in specialized courses in sought-after areas of expertise.
Graduates Are in Demand
When it comes to addressing the challenges of your workplace and the communities you serve, you know what works — and what doesn’t. Already specialized in an undergraduate field of study, MPA graduates draw from a wealth of experience from both their careers and education. Graduates often find themselves in high demand for mid- to high-level positions thanks to the specialized skills, informed perspectives, and nuanced understanding of problem-solving gained in an MPA program.
Emerge a Leader
Earning a respected credential that demonstrates your skills and knowledge in public administration can help you stand out among your peers and make you a valuable resource to your organization. The Penn State World Campus public administration portfolio offers graduate-level education opportunities that can help you begin or enhance your career as a leader in public administration.
Broaden Your Pathways
Do you feel like you could be making more of an impact? Want to broaden the scope of your opportunities? An MPA creates a wealth of opportunities to apply your knowledge and experience to human rights groups, nonprofit medical centers, charitable organizations, schools, public media, and international organizations — to name a few.
Typical jobs for an MPA graduate can include:
- accountant/auditor
- attorney
- bank officer
- benefits administrator
- college administrator
- consultant
- criminal justice administrator
- data analyst
- health care administrator
- hospital administrator
- office manager
- nonprofit program manager
- political campaign worker
- communications specialist
- social advocate
Designed for Working Adults
Between work, family and friends, self-care, and other obligations, it’s hard to balance your schedule. The Penn State World Campus course experience is fully online and can be completed part-time — from anywhere in the world. You can work on your degree at your own pace without ever worrying that you aren’t showing up. Not sure if you can commit to a long-term degree program but still want to boost your career and improve your organization? You can earn up to two certificates in public sector management that can be applied toward a master’s degree at a later date.