What Can I Do With a Master of Public Administration Degree?
Do you have a passion for public service? Want to make a difference in your community, emergency services, government or a nonprofit agency?
Earning your Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree may be the perfect way to gain expertise in service and advance as a leader in the public sector. But how far will an MPA take you, and which career paths are available to you?
We sat down with Ximeng Chen, Ph.D., assistant professor and program director of the Master of Public Administration program at Sacred Heart University, to discuss four compelling tracks within “the MBA for the public sector.”
Which public administration concentration should I choose?
Criminal Justice
With a focus on criminal justice, you’ll develop management skills necessary for a career in public service with government agencies, the justice system and federal, state and local law enforcement. This concentration is especially helpful for law enforcement officers looking to gain management and leadership experience to advance in their careers.
Emergency Management
When you focus on emergency management, you’ll increase your skills and capabilities in disaster management and preparedness at the federal, state and local levels and in private industry. Courses in preparedness, disaster response and crisis management will ensure you’re ready to help protect your community.
Nonprofit Management
With a concentration in nonprofit management, you’ll develop managerial skills such as financial administration, strategic planning, human resources and fundraising to help nonprofits fulfill their core missions. You’ll also have access to the Center for Nonprofit Organizations in SHU’s Jack Welch College of Business & Technology and the opportunity to apply your new skills and brainstorm solutions for nonprofits in the nearby community.
Self-Designed Concentration
If you have a specific career goal or set of interests in the public sector, you can pursue a self-designed concentration tailored to your professional needs.
What sets Sacred Heart University’s program apart?
SHU’s MPA is a truly interdisciplinary program, making use of resources and scholars across campus to create a comprehensive, yet fully online program that’s perfect for those seeking public-sector career placement or advancement. A full-time option allows you to take two courses at a time and earn your MPA in one year, and the part-time option offers one course at a time and can be completed in as little as two years.
Through a partnership with SHU’s Institute for Public Policy & Civic Engagement, you can participate in real-time studies, gaining hands-on analytical skills to make data-driven decisions.
In addition, SHU offers a 50% tuition discount for first responders throughout the tri-state area who enroll in the program.
Think the MPA program at Sacred Heart University might be for you?
Curious about earning your Master of Public Administration? Talk to Cristen Meehl, associate director of graduate admissions & recruitment, at meehlc@sacredheart.edu or schedule a virtual appointment today!