What Can You Do with a Master’s in Public Administration Degree: 2025 Costs & Job Opportunities

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Joining the field of public administration means you will be one of the people employed in government agencies, finance, education, healthcare, and social services, among other sectors. In 2020, the public administration sector employed 7.18 million people (Data USA, n.d.). Though completing a public administration degree can qualify you for entry-level jobs, a master's in public administration degree is often necessary when you apply for managerial roles.

Once you complete a public administration degree, you gain crucial skills like leadership and data analysis so you can effectively manage teams, develop policies, and ensure effective service. You can pursue job roles such as school and career counselor, medical and health services manager, compliance officer, and public relations manager. The opportunities are varied!

In this article, our research team compiled data from universities and relevant industry organizations to help answer some of your most asked questions about this topic. You will learn details on the cost of a master's in public administration degree, what to look for in a program, and what type of jobs and salary you can expect to qualify for when you obtain your degree.

Master's in Public Administration Degree Table of Contents

• What is a master's in public administration degree?
• Cost of Master's of Public Administration Degree
• Master's of Public Administration Degree Jobs
• Master's in Public Administration Degree Requirements
• What to Look for in a Master's in Public Administration Program
• Can an accelerated associate degree pave the way to a career in public administration?
• Are accelerated master's programs in public administration a viable option?
• How does a Master’s in Public Administration compare to online business degrees?
• How can you finance your Master's in Public Administration?
• How can project management skills complement an MPA?
• What Accreditation and Professional Certifications Should I Consider?
• 2025 Best Master’s in Public Administration Program
• Exploring Public Policy Career Paths with a Master’s in Public Administration
• How can a bachelor’s in public administration help prepare you for a master’s program?
• The Role of Technology and Data Analytics in Public Administration
• How can complementary business skills enhance leadership in public administration?

What is a master's in public administration degree?

If you're wondering, “What degree should I get in public administration?" a master's degree might be a good option. A master's in public administration aims to help candidates gain the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue careers that impact their community or serve the public interest. This degree is typically designed for individuals currently working or wanting to work in government, nonprofit organizations, or other public-sector fields.

When you enroll in this program, you can expect to study topics on public policy, budgeting and financial management, data analytics, and public health, among others. You can also find programs that offer experiential learning opportunities, such as internships or capstone projects. A few more examples of topics in a master in public administration degree include:

1. Leadership for public health crises
2. Ethics and accountability
3. Policy-making
4. Nonprofit management
5. Organizational analysis
6. Project management

What can you do with a master's in public administration degree?

With a master's in public administration degree, you can gain important skills that a lot of professionals desire but are not getting the opportunity to develop. This means you can have a competitive advantage, especially when applying for top-level roles.

For instance, you can improve your influencing and negotiating skills, which are valuable to almost 50% of employees surveyed about skills development. Also, these skills are highly relevant in public administration. To be an effective leader in the public sector, you will need to rely on your influencing and negotiating skills to build coalitions and work collaboratively with various stakeholders. As a leader in your community or organization, influencing and negotiating skills power your ability to persuade others, communicate effectively, and build consensus.

Another important skill you can attain in a master's in public administration is program evaluation skills. No matter which sector you end up working in, it is highly likely that you will lead projects or programs that impact people's lives. Before you implement these programs, your evaluation skills are necessary to assess the effectiveness, efficiency, and possible risks.

Moreover, combined with strategic planning and public relations skills, you will be able to develop long-term goals and implement policies with the backing and support of your team, stakeholders, and community.

Cost of a Master's in Public Administration Degree

The cost of a master's in public administration degree will depend on the type of institution you choose. Most public universities are less expensive than private ones. Also, resident students often get lower rates for tuition compared to out-of-state students. You can learn more about affordable online master programs if you are looking to manage the cost of your education.

How much does it cost to get a master's in public administration degree?

Based on published rates by universities, our research team calculated the cost of a master's in public administration at public and private institutions. We categorized them into in-state and out-of-state for public universities and made a table of the least expensive and the most expensive options. For your reference, an undergraduate degree costs around $8,000 (in-state), $15,000 (out-of-state), and $27,000 (private university).

Is a master's in public administration degree worth it?

Yes, a master's in public administration degree is worth it when you think about the many industries that graduates of this degree can go to for their careers or if you have your heart set on public policy careers. Aside from government agencies, you can work in healthcare, finance, education, and other groups that work for community and social services.

Also, if you are looking for sectors that pay well, public administration is also an excellent option. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary of administrative managers is $100,170 in 2021. With this type of potential salary, you can easily get your degree ROI in just a few years after graduation.

Master's in Public Administration Degree Jobs

Is a master's in public administration in high demand?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 7% job growth for administrative services roles, where public administration is categorized (BLS, 2022). This will be a steady growth from 2021 to 2031, which means you can have many options for jobs in this sector with your public administration masters degree.

Moreover, experts believe that the lessons learned from COVID-19 are pushing the government to improve the capacity of its leaders, administrators, and managers when it comes to responding to existential threats. In the study “The Erosion of Trust During a Global Pandemic and How Public Administrators Should Counter It," published in The American Review of Public Administration (ARPA), author Aaron Deslatte recommend that “Public administrators can no longer be content playing the role of behind-the-scenes implementers of public policy."

With the new normal and with more societal threats anticipated in the future, obtaining a masters degree in public administration or a degree like an online masters in organizational leadership can be an excellent investment as the world seeks more competent professionals in administrative services with proven leadership skills.

What jobs can you get with a master's in public administration degree?

1. Urban and Regional Planners. Supervises the land usage of communities by evaluating local needs to develop prosperous areas where individuals desire to work and reside. You can expect to work closely with government employees, developers, and community leaders.
2. Budget Analyst. Helps organizations sustain sound and stable budgets. Your role can also include analyzing the effectiveness of government programs and assisting in enacting legislation for public budgets.
3. Health Services Manager. Facilitates people's access to necessary healthcare services, manages teams, and ensures that the organization is able to adapt to evolving healthcare regulations. Health services managers may have the chance to represent their organizations in front of governing boards.
4. Compliance Manager. Ensures that their organization complies with government regulations and guidelines. You often need to collaborate with management and staff to recognize and manage regulatory risks.

What kind of salary can I earn with a master's in public administration degree?

With a master's in public administration degree, your salary can expect a salary range of $59,470 to more than $168,910 (BLS, 2022). In our previous job examples, a compliance manager, for instance, has a salary range of $37,000 to $192,000, a budget analyst can earn anywhere between $55,580 and $70,483, urban and regional planners have a salary range of $48,522 to $58,603, and health services managers earn anywhere from $114,614 to $146,094.

Salaries can also vary depending on the industry you choose to enter. For example, public administration professionals working in the management of companies and enterprises have a median annual salary of $125,690, while those in educational services have a median annual salary of $94,410.

Master's in Public Administration Degree Requirements

Before you embark on your public administration master's degree, prepare these academic requirements. Each university will have its own admission requirements but these are the most common ones.

Admission Requirements

1. Completed undergraduate degree. Since a master's in public administration is a postgraduate program, universities will require a completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution Whether you choose the highest paying bachelor degrees or more affordable online programs, what matters is that you have an undergraduate diploma.
2. Minimum undergraduate GPA. The GPA requirement often varies depending on the institution and can range from 2.5 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
3. Standardized test scores. Though many universities have started to let go of this requirement, you might still pursue a program that asks for a standardized test score such as the GRE or GMAT.
4. Letters of recommendation. You often need at least two letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
5. Professional work experience. This may not be required for all master's in public administration programs but most institutions explicitly say that an applicant could significantly increase their success in a master's program if they already have two to three years of work experience in a related field.
6. Statement of purpose. This requirement can especially become relevant for applicants who do not have at least three years of work experience or whose career is in a different field. A personal essay outlines the applicant's goals and reasons for pursuing the master's program.
7. Application fee. Aside from tuition, check for an application fee and other related fees that your prospective institution might require.

Skill Requirements

1. Analytical skills. Different job roles in public administration require you to be able to analyze complex data and information to make informed decisions and recommendations.
2. Communication skills. In leadership or top-level roles, strong oral and written communication skills are necessary so you can effectively communicate with stakeholders, policymakers, and the public.
3. Leadership skills. Once you take on a manager-level job in any industry, you will need strong leadership skills to effectively manage teams, motivate employees, and work collaboratively with others.
4. Critical thinking skills. Solving complex public issues will always be part of your job description, so your ability to think critically and creatively to identify problems, develop solutions, and evaluate outcomes is crucial.
5. Ethical decision-making. People working with the public's interest in mind should possess strong ethical standards and the ability to make sound decisions based on ethical principles.
6. Time management. Things in your public administration career can easily become overwhelming. But with strong time management and organizational skills, you can prioritize tasks to meet deadlines and achieve your team or organization's goals.

What to Look for in a Master's in Public Administration Program

Academic documents are the most important requirements you need to prepare when applying for any master's program. Also, it would be good to learn more about other details like the college acceptance rate, miscellaneous fees, and the curriculum of the program.

1. Curriculum. Look for a master's in public administration program that offers courses that cover key topics in public administration including budgeting, policy analysis, and program evaluation. Also, consider whether the program offers a specialization that aligns with your interests and career goals.
2. Accreditation. Make sure the institution or program is accredited by a recognized agency, such as the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA) or The New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Accreditation is important since employers also use it to validate your training and education when applying for a job.
3. Faculty.The faculty also adds a lot of credibility to the program. Read about the professors and their experience in the field of public administration. Also, if you are planning to pursue academic work in the future, having professors that are actively engaged in research can be helpful.
4. Financial Aid Options. Studying for a master’s degree can be expensive. But looking for universities that offer financial aid can make your studies more affordable.

Can an accelerated associate degree pave the way to a career in public administration?

Accelerated academic pathways, such as completing a 1-year associate degree programs online, offer professionals a streamlined route to gaining foundational skills in public administration. These intensive programs are designed to rapidly build expertise in key areas like management principles, budgeting, and data analytics, effectively preparing candidates for advanced studies or immediate entry into the workforce. By focusing on practical applications and real-world scenarios, these programs enable learners to integrate academic concepts with professional practice, potentially enhancing their competitiveness for graduate education and career advancement in the public sector.

Are accelerated master's programs in public administration a viable option?

Accelerated master's programs in public administration offer an intensive curriculum designed to fast-track your expertise and career progression without compromising academic quality. These programs condense coursework into a shorter timeframe, enabling experienced professionals to transition into leadership roles more quickly. They efficiently integrate real-world applications with comprehensive theoretical training, allowing you to gain critical skills in management, policy analysis, and data-driven decision-making. For those seeking a rapid entry into advanced public administration, exploring options such as 1-year master's programs online can provide a competitive edge in today’s fast-paced environment.

How does a Master’s in Public Administration compare to online business degrees?

In evaluating educational paths, it is crucial to understand that a Master’s in Public Administration emphasizes policy development, public service management, and community engagement, while online business degrees concentrate on corporate strategy, financial analysis, and market-driven decision-making. The MPA curriculum is tailored to public-sector leadership, focusing on ethical governance and accountability, in contrast to the profit-oriented framework found in business programs. Such distinctions affect career trajectories, networking opportunities, and the practical skills cultivated during the course of study. For comparisons on program affordability and curriculum focus, consider insights from online colleges for business.

How can you finance your Master's in Public Administration?

Graduate studies in public administration often come with various funding opportunities designed to ease financial burdens. Many universities offer merit- and need-based scholarships, grants, and stipends specifically for public service fields. Additionally, federal aid programs, employer tuition reimbursement, and low-interest private loans have proven beneficial in managing education expenses. Some professionals also consider accelerated paths, such as 1 year business masters programs, which may reduce overall costs and time commitment. Proactively researching financial aid options and partnering with a university’s financial services office can help optimize funding strategies while aligning with long-term career goals in the public sector.

How can project management skills complement an MPA?

Integrating project management expertise with a Master’s in Public Administration enhances strategic planning and operational efficiency in the public sector. Applying project management principles—such as efficient resource allocation, risk assessment, and timeline management—ensures that public initiatives are executed with precision and measurable outcomes. This dual focus can facilitate better coordination among diverse teams, streamline policy implementation phases, and foster a results-oriented culture. For professionals seeking cost-effective, specialized training to develop these complementary skills, consider exploring cheapest MBA project management programs.

What Accreditation and Professional Certifications Should I Consider?

Selecting an accredited MPA program confirms that the curriculum meets established academic and professional standards, ensuring a rigorous education that is valued by employers and industry stakeholders. Accreditation from recognized bodies enhances the credibility of the degree, while specialized certifications in areas such as public management or policy analysis can further distinguish you in a competitive job market. This comprehensive approach not only validates your educational investment but also opens avenues for advanced career opportunities and leadership roles. For those considering complementary pathways, exploring an affordable online MBA program no GMAT could provide additional strategic insights applicable to both the public and private sectors.

2025 Best Master’s in Public Administration Program

Our team of review experts at Research.com utilized the latest public datasets from reliable sources to formulate the rankings for 2023. The evaluation of programs included key metrics such as academic ratings, enrollment rate, affordability, online reliability, and more.

1. Harvard Kennedy School Master in Public Administration

The Harvard University Kennedy School Master in Public Administration is a program that students can tailor to their academic interests and professional aspirations. It is also interdisciplinary and allows students to pursue a concurrent degree in business, law, medicine, or other professional fields.

1. Program Length: 2 years
2. Tracks/Concentrations: Local Government, Nonprofit, State and Federal Government
3. Tuition: $57,660
4. Accreditation: NECHE

2. Brigham Young University Master of Public Administration

The Brigham Young University Master of Public Administration is suitable for professionals who are enthusiastic about dedicating their careers to public and nonprofit service. The program equips students with a distinctive set of skills that will enable them to serve and lead effectively both in their personal and professional capacities.

1. Program Length: 2 years
2. Tracks/Concentrations: Economics, Management, Public Ethics
3. Tuition: $54, 172
4. Accreditation: NWCCU

3. North Carolina State University Master of Public Administration

The North Carolina State University Master of Public Administration prioritizes students' development of practical and problem-solving skills, as well as public service values like efficiency, effectiveness, equity, and accountability. Most of the classes are conducted in the evening to facilitate the involvement of full-time students in internships and to cater to the schedules of part-time students who work in public policy or nonprofit domains.

1. Program Length: 2 years
2. Tracks/Concentrations: Public management, Nonprofit management
3. Tuition: $31,675 (in-state), $51,995 (out-of-state)
4. Accreditation: NASPAA

4. Rutgers University Online Master of Public Administration

The Rutgers University Online Master of Public Administration is a fully online program delivered asynchronously. It equips students with the latest knowledge and practical skills required for thriving careers in government, nonprofit organizations, international bodies, and even the private sector. Students can improve their skills in leadership and management, evidence-based decision-making, the policy process, public service values, and effective interaction with diverse populations and societies.

1. Program Length: 2 years
2. Tracks/Concentrations: Public management, Nonprofit management
3. Tuition: $9,348 (in-state), $15,408 (out-of-state)
4. Accreditation: NASPAA

5. Leiden University Master of Public Administration

The Leiden University Master of Public Administration program provides a distinctive, multi-level viewpoint on the management of global political, economic, and social entities. The students learn strategies for managing, guiding, and coordinating political, administrative, economic, and social entities, as well as the environments in which they function.

1. Program Length: 1 year
2. Tracks/Concentrations: Economics, International Governance, Public Management
3. Tuition:€2,209 (Dutch, EU/EEA, Swiss, and Surinamese students), €19,300 (Non-EU/EEA students)
4. Accreditation: NVAO8

Exploring Public Policy Career Paths with a Master’s in Public Administration

A Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) opens doors to a variety of impactful roles in public policy. These positions allow graduates to influence decision-making, shape public initiatives, and implement policies that directly benefit communities. For MPA graduates, pursuing a career in public policy means using their expertise to guide sustainable development, advocate for social justice, and address pressing issues like healthcare reform and climate change.

Key Public Policy Roles

• Policy Analyst: Policy analysts research, evaluate, and develop policies for government agencies, nonprofits, and think tanks. Their work involves analyzing data, identifying societal needs, and recommending policy changes. Strong analytical skills gained from an MPA program are essential for success in this role.
• Legislative Assistant: In this role, MPA graduates assist lawmakers by researching legislative issues, drafting bills, and preparing reports. They often work closely with government officials to ensure proposed policies align with public interests and legal frameworks.
• Program Director: Program directors in public policy oversee initiatives related to public health, economic development, or social services. This role combines project management with policy implementation, requiring the strategic and organizational skills MPA programs cultivate.

Impact of an MPA in Public Policy

Graduates with a focus on public policy often enjoy diverse career opportunities across sectors. They may work with government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or international bodies to develop and implement policies that drive positive social change. For example, exploring careers in public policy reveals various high-impact roles in areas like environmental sustainability, education reform, and economic policy.

How can a bachelor’s in public administration help prepare you for a master’s program?

Earning a bachelor’s degree in public administration provides an essential foundation for pursuing a master’s in the field. Undergraduate programs equip students with a solid understanding of public policy, organizational management, and governmental operations—key competencies that are further developed in graduate studies. Students also gain practical experience through internships and case studies, which are valuable for building analytical and leadership skills.

A bachelor’s degree can also help you meet the prerequisites for master’s programs, particularly in areas such as research methods, economics, and political science. For those looking to minimize costs while preparing for advanced education, exploring the cheapest online bachelor degree in public administration can be a strategic choice. Affordable options ensure accessibility while maintaining academic quality.

The Role of Technology and Data Analytics in Public Administration

As the public administration field continues to evolve, technology and data analytics are playing an increasingly central role in shaping policies, improving services, and enhancing the efficiency of government operations. With the growing availability of big data and advanced analytical tools, public administration professionals are now expected to leverage technology to drive decision-making and streamline public service delivery.

Here’s how technology and data analytics are transforming the landscape of public administration:

• Data-Driven Decision-Making: Public administrators are increasingly using data to inform policies and programs. By analyzing large datasets from various public sources, administrators can identify trends, predict outcomes, and make evidence-based decisions that improve the effectiveness of government initiatives. For example, public health administrators may analyze health data to track disease outbreaks and allocate resources more effectively.
• Smart Cities and Urban Management: Technology plays a key role in developing smart cities, where data and IoT (Internet of Things) devices are used to manage public services, transportation, energy consumption, and even waste management. Public administrators need to understand how to integrate these technologies to enhance urban living, improve sustainability, and optimize city management.
• Automation in Public Services: From online portals for tax filing to automated systems for public benefit distribution, automation is improving efficiency in government services. Administrators must be adept at managing these systems, ensuring that they serve citizens effectively while safeguarding data privacy and security.
• Policy Simulation Tools: Data analytics also enable the simulation of policy scenarios, helping public administrators forecast the impact of proposed policies. This technology is particularly valuable in public health, environmental management, and urban planning, where predictive models can highlight potential risks and benefits before implementing new initiatives.
• Cybersecurity and Public Administration: As governments rely more on digital tools, cybersecurity becomes critical. Public administration professionals must be equipped with the knowledge of cybersecurity practices to protect sensitive public data and ensure the integrity of digital systems.
• Performance Measurement and Program Evaluation: Data analytics also play a pivotal role in assessing the performance of government programs. Using tools like Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), administrators can track the progress of initiatives and determine whether they are meeting public needs. This data-driven approach ensures transparency, accountability, and continual improvement in public services.

Incorporating technology and data analytics into public administration is no longer optional—it's a necessity for creating a more efficient, responsive, and accountable government. By pursuing an affordable online master's in public policy, you can gain the skills needed to work at the intersection of technology and public service, positioning you to tackle the challenges of modern governance and drive meaningful change.

By staying informed about the latest technological trends and incorporating them into your work, you’ll help shape a future where government operations are more transparent, efficient, and beneficial to society.

How can complementary business skills enhance leadership in public administration?

Integrating advanced business management strategies with public administration expertise can provide a competitive edge in today’s multifaceted public sector. Combining operational efficiency, budget management, and strategic planning augments the core competencies of a public administration degree, fostering holistic leadership and decision-making. Acquiring complementary business skills can streamline resource allocation and support effective policy implementation, ultimately amplifying the impact of public sector initiatives. For professionals seeking to bridge the gap between public service and private-sector methodologies, exploring short MBA programs offers valuable insights and targeted training opportunities.

Key Insights

• Diverse Career Opportunities: A Master's in Public Administration (MPA) prepares graduates for roles in various sectors including government, finance, education, healthcare, and social services. Common job titles include school and career counselor, medical and health services manager, compliance officer, and public relations manager.
• Essential Skill Development: The MPA program equips students with critical skills such as leadership, data analysis, program evaluation, strategic planning, and public relations. These skills are highly valued in public administration and essential for managerial roles.
• Cost Variability: The cost of an MPA varies significantly depending on the type of institution (public or private) and residency status. The average cost at public universities ranges from $25,200 (in-state) to $35,400 (out-of-state), while private institutions average around $62,100.
• High Earning Potential: MPA graduates can expect competitive salaries. For instance, administrative managers earn a median annual salary of $100,170. Salaries can range from $59,470 to over $168,910 depending on the specific job role and industry.
• Growing Demand: The job market for public administration roles is projected to grow by 7% from 2021 to 2031. This growth is driven by the need for skilled professionals to manage public programs and respond to societal challenges, including public health crises.

FAQ

1. What is a master's in public administration degree? A master's in public administration (MPA) degree is a graduate-level program designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue careers in the public sector, including government, nonprofit organizations, and other public service fields. The curriculum typically includes courses in public policy, budgeting, financial management, data analytics, and public health.
2. How much does a master's in public administration degree cost? The cost of an MPA degree varies depending on the institution and residency status. On average, the cost at public universities ranges from $25,200 (in-state) to $35,400 (out-of-state), while private institutions average around $62,100. The least expensive programs can cost as low as $10,750 for in-state students, while the most expensive can exceed $88,000 at private universities.
3. Is a master's in public administration degree worth it? Yes, an MPA degree is worth it, especially for those seeking managerial roles in public administration. The degree provides essential skills for leadership and program management and opens doors to various high-paying job opportunities in multiple sectors, including government, healthcare, and education.
4. What jobs can you get with a master's in public administration degree? Graduates with an MPA can pursue a wide range of careers, including urban and regional planners, budget analysts, health services managers, compliance managers, and public relations managers. These roles involve managing public programs, ensuring regulatory compliance, and leading teams to achieve organizational goals.
5. What is the job outlook for master's in public administration graduates? The job outlook for MPA graduates is positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 7% growth in public administration roles from 2021 to 2031. This growth is driven by the increasing need for skilled professionals to manage public programs and respond to societal challenges.
6. What are the admission requirements for a master's in public administration program? Admission requirements for an MPA program typically include a completed undergraduate degree, a minimum undergraduate GPA (usually between 2.5 and 3.0), standardized test scores (such as the GRE or GMAT), letters of recommendation, professional work experience, a statement of purpose, and an application fee.
7. What skills are essential for success in public administration? Essential skills for success in public administration include analytical skills, communication skills, leadership skills, critical thinking skills, ethical decision-making, and time management. These skills are crucial for effectively managing public programs and leading teams to achieve organizational objectives.
8. What should I look for in a master's in public administration program? When choosing an MPA program, consider factors such as the curriculum, accreditation, faculty expertise, financial aid options, and the program's alignment with your career goals. Accreditation from recognized agencies like NASPAA or NECHE is important to ensure the quality of education and better job prospects.

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4. Deslatte, A. (2020). The Erosion of Trust During a Global Pandemic and How Public Administrators Should Counter It. The American Review of Public Administration (ARPA). DOI
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6. Salary.com (2023). Budget Analyst Salary. Salary.com