A career in public service, policy analysis or government administration can greatly benefit from graduate-level education. Two degrees that prepare students for these career paths are Master of Public Policy (MPP) and Master of Public Administration (MPA) programs. For those with public service motivation, these programs provide the intellectual training and networks to make a significant public impact, regardless of the area of work one chooses to pursue: government, nonprofits or private organizations. Both program types are incredibly valuable for anyone seeking to enhance their knowledge of public policy and administration. While there is some overlap between these types of programs, they have key differences in curricula and career outcomes.
The Difference Between an MPP and an MPA
MPP programs focus on policy analysis, evaluation and formulation. By diving deep into quantitative methods, economics and political science, MPP students will gain an understanding of the underlying issues driving public policy and learn to develop effective solutions. Their curricula emphasize analytical skills such as statistical analysis, econometrics and policy evaluation. Graduates are equipped to conduct in-depth policy research and analysis.
On the other hand, MPA programs focus more on the management and implementation of public policies and programs. MPA curriculums emphasize skills-based learning, so students will develop skills in leadership, budgeting and public sector operations. These programs emphasize managerial and administrative skills such as strategic planning, public budgeting, personnel management and organizational behavior. Graduates are able to lead and manage public sector organizations.
Career Opportunities
In some cases, the career opportunities with an MPP and an MPA overlap. However, if you have very specific career goals in one or two areas of public service, one of the degrees — or a program that combines the two — may be the better option.
MPP graduates can work in organizations such as research institutes, think tanks, government agencies, international organizations, nonprofits and advocacy groups. They may hold roles as policy analysts, consultants, program evaluators or researchers. The average base salary for an individual with an MPP is $80K, according to Payscale.
MPA graduates typically pursue careers in public administration, government management, non-profit organizations and public service agencies. Common job titles with an MPA are city manager, public administrator, program manager and executive director of a nonprofit organization. The average salary for an individual with an MPA is $77K, according to Payscale.
For those more interested in policy analysis and research, an MPP might be the better fit. But for individuals who would rather work in management or administration within the public sector, an MPA might be more suitable.
Both degrees can lead to fulfilling careers in public service and contribute to positive social change. For individuals with expansive career goals and a strong desire to enrich the lives of diverse communities and groups, a Master of Public Policy and Administration degree combines the best both programs. An MPPA doesn’t limit you to public service either — your MPPA studies can support you in a variety of fields.
A Public Policy Degree Unlocks Vast Career Potential
An MPPA degree can lead to a wide range of careers in the public, private and nonprofit sectors.
Government
MPPA graduates often work in government agencies at the local, state or federal levels. They may contribute to the development, implementation and ongoing management of public policy by serving as policy analysts, program managers, legislative aides or government relations specialists.
Nonprofit Organizations
Many nonprofits focus on advocacy, research and service delivery in vital areas such as education, health care, social services and environmental conservation. MPPA graduates can work as program directors, policy advocates, grant writers or community organizers, driving positive change in their chosen areas.
International Organizations
MPPA graduates may pursue careers in international organizations such as the United Nations, World Bank or nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) working on global development. Some core specialization areas include international development, humanitarian assistance, peacebuilding and global health policy.
Consulting Firms
Consulting firms often hire MPPA graduates to contribute their expertise on policy analysis, program evaluation and strategic planning to government agencies, nonprofits and private sector clients. These roles involve conducting research, analyzing data and making policy management recommendations to clients.
Research and Academia
MPPA programs instill in students a value for lifelong learning, so some graduates choose to pursue careers in research institutions, think tanks or academia. They may work as research analysts, policy fellows or professors and do the important work of conducting research on public policy issues, publishing academic papers and teaching the next generation of public servants.
Private Sector
An MPPA teaches widely transferable skills, meaning that MPPA graduates can also find opportunities in the private sector. Graduates seeking work in the private sector are typically more interested in industries that intersect with government policy and regulation. They may work in areas such as corporate social responsibility, public affairs or government relations, helping companies to navigate regulatory compliance and engage with policymakers on relevant issues.
MPA and MPP Jobs and Their Salaries
| Job Titles | Average Annual Salaries |
|---|---|
| City Manager | $77,735 |
| Legislative Aide | $51,319 |
| Policy Analyst | $82,014 |
| Political Consultant | $74,388 |
*Source: Indeed and Glassdoor, June 2024.
Your Career: Thinking Outside the Box
Graduates of the Cal Lutheran School of Management’s Master of Public Policy and Administration program go on to use their newfound skills and knowledge in innovative and impactful ways.
Alum Nicolai Andersen took a different route, using his MPPA education to support his digital marketing career. The global perspective offered by the MPPA program helped Andersen establish an SEO bureau in Oslo, working with clients and freelancers across the globe, and the skills he developed within the program transferred well to his career.
“My research, analytical, communication and advocacy skills witnessed significant improvement,” Andersen said. “These skills are not only convenient but also necessary for a career in digital marketing and SEO. Analytical proficiency, for instance, is crucial when dissecting search data, researching algorithm changes, conducting keyword research and presenting results to clients.”
Cal Lutheran’s MPPA program offers incredible potential for your career, with widely applicable learning outcomes. MPPA students are able to take their education beyond public policy and administration, with courses in HR management, nonprofit management, urban policy and planning and emergency and crisis management. With its hybrid format and internship and travel opportunities, Cal Lutheran’s MPPA program offers incredible potential for your career.
Earn Your MPPA From the Cal Lutheran School of Management
Gain a big-picture understanding of the challenges faced by the public and private sectors, and hone specialized strategies to create and implement innovative solutions with Cal Lutheran’s MPPA program.
The School of Management at Cal Lutheran is dedicated to producing graduates who are well prepared to succeed in their personal and professional lives — who lead, think, communicate and follow through with sustained excellence. As a Cal Lutheran School of Management student, you’ll learn from experienced faculty and benefit from personalized attention in small class sizes.
Download a program brochure or start your application for the Master of Public Policy and Administration.