Top 10 Careers You Can Pursue with an MPA

A Master of Public Administration (MPA) is a versatile degree designed for individuals who want to lead in public service, nonprofit organizations, and policy-driven careers. MPA degrees offer excellent career preparation for those seeking meaningful, mission-driven leadership careers. Graduates of an MPA program are equipped with the leadership, budgeting, and policy analysis skills needed to make meaningful change in their communities and beyond.

Career Paths with an MPA

1. Government Leadership

MPA graduates often work in local, state, or federal government in roles such as:

• City or County Manager
• Policy Advisor
• Budget Analyst
• Urban or Regional Planner
  These professionals help shape policies, allocate resources, and manage government operations efficiently.

2. Nonprofit and NGO Management

With courses in nonprofit leadership and fundraising strategy, MPA grads are well-suited for roles like:

• Executive Director
• Program Manager
• Grant Writer
• Development Director
  These roles allow you to advance missions in healthcare, education, social services, and global development.

3. Public Policy & Advocacy
MPA holders influence and develop public policies by working as:

• Policy Analysts
• Legislative Aides
• Research Associates
• Advocacy Specialists
  They often work in think tanks, lobbying firms, or government relations offices.

4. Healthcare Administration
For those interested in public health, MPAs lead healthcare systems as:

• Health Policy Analysts
• Hospital Administrators
• Public Health Program Directors
  They focus on improving healthcare delivery through policy reform and strategic management.

5. Emergency Management & Homeland Security
Protecting communities and coordinating disaster response, MPA grads become:

• Emergency Management Directors
• Crisis Response Coordinators
• Security Planners
  They often work for FEMA, local emergency offices, or federal agencies.

6. Education Administration
Make an impact in the education sector as:

• School District Administrators
• Education Policy Analysts
• University Operations Managers
  These roles shape academic policy, resource allocation, and administrative leadership in schools and higher education.

7. Environmental Policy & Sustainability
Tackle climate and sustainability challenges in positions such as:

• Environmental Policy Analyst
• Sustainability Program Manager
• Natural Resources Planner
  Graduates work with government agencies, environmental nonprofits, or consultancies.

Who Hires MPA Graduates?

• Federal, State, and Local Governments (EPA, HUD, Dept. of Education)
• Nonprofit Organizations (United Way, Red Cross)
• International NGOs (United Nations, World Bank)
• Healthcare Systems and Public Health Departments
• K-12 School Districts and Universities
• City Planning and Urban Development Agencies

Salary Outlook

Salaries for professionals with a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree vary based on factors such as industry, experience, and geographic location. Below are median annual wage figures for selected positions, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

• City Manager (Top Executive): City managers are categorized under "Top Executives" by the BLS. As of May 2023, the median annual wage for top executives was $116,880. ​Bureau of Labor Statistics
• Policy Analyst (Political Scientist): Policy analysts are often classified as political scientists. In May 2023, the median annual wage for political scientists was $132,350. ​Bureau of Labor Statistics
• Nonprofit Director (Social and Community Service Manager): Nonprofit directors fall under the category of social and community service managers. The median annual wage for this group was $83,400 in May 2023. ​Bureau of Labor Statistics
• Healthcare Administrator (Medical and Health Services Manager): Healthcare administrators are classified as medical and health services managers. As of May 2023, the median annual wage for this occupation was $134,440. ​Bureau of Labor Statistics

University of Kentucky's Online Master's in Public Administration program

If you’re passionate about public service and want to lead in government, nonprofits, or policy-driven organizations, earning a Master of Public Administration (MPA) can be a game-changer for your career.

The University of Kentucky’s online MPA program equips professionals with the leadership, budgeting, and analytical skills needed to make data-informed decisions and drive meaningful change in their communities. Whether you're just beginning your public service career or looking to advance into higher-level leadership roles, the MPA offers a flexible, respected pathway forward.