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MPA" stands for "Master's of Public Administration," which is a graduate degree offered at the university level. MPA programs prepare students for careers in the public and nonprofit sectors that involve management, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and research.
Identification
An MPA program typically requires two years of full-time study. The first year curriculum typically consists of core classes (which vary among schools), while the second year may cover core classes and offer elective classes.
Applying to MPA Programs
Applying to MPA programs requires having a bachelor's degree, and many programs also require taking the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
Types of Courses
Examples of courses offered include: Public Management, Administrative Law, Administration and Public Policy Analysis, and Administration of Financial Resources. Most MPA programs require that an internship or work experience be completed prior to graduation.
Why Earn an MPA?
Graduate programs offering a master's degree in public administration teach students management skills unique to the public and nonprofit sectors. This may include management of resources and personnel, similar to an MBA program, but with more emphasis on political and public policy topics.
Careers
MPAs are ideal for individuals planning for careers in the public sector or with nonprofit organizations. Jobs within these fields may include City Manager, Public Administrator, Policy Analyst and any high-level management positions within the government.
Tags: careers public, core classes, nonprofit sectors, public nonprofit, public nonprofit sectors