Online master's degree programs in public administration

Online Master's of Public Administration (MPA) in public policy, local government or non-profit management have a wide range of career applications. Hopeful executives, consultants and administrators have the opportunity to develop their managerial skills while studying in an online Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree program.

What to expect from online master's of public administration degree programs

Malcolm S. Forbes, publisher, businessman and entrepreneur, once said, "The best vision is insight." Enrolling in an online Master's of Public Administration degree program could be the most insightful thing you do with your career. Part science, part artistry, an MPA degree program can offer you the opportunity to develop your expertise at managing and directing organizations.

Public administration degrees focus on theoretical approaches to organizations. An online master's degree program in public administration will offer a wide variety of coursework including:

• Conflict resolution
• Group processes
• Transition intervention strategies
• Public policy design and implementation
• Program evaluation
• Organizational assessment.

This rigorous course of study will hone your abilities to lead and direct groups of people in a concerted effort.

Career outlook for graduates of an MPA degree program

After successful completion of an MPA degree program, the next stage of your career could take you into public policy, local government or non-profit management positions. Below are a few occupations that prefer or even require MPAs, along with latest available mean annual wages as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

• Medical and health services managers: $90,970. Healthcare administrators may be in charge of a specific department or entire facilities. They plan, coordinate, direct and supervise healthcare delivery systems.

• Social and community service management: $61,240. These specialists often find employment in the non-profit sector. They plan and oversee program policies, budgets and activities of community outreach or social services.

• City manager: $94, 992. Most government jobs do not require you to win an election, although many require at least a bachelor's degree. A Master's of Public Administration degree, however, is generally preferred, if not required, for city Manager and other top level positions.

• Chief executives: $167,280. In both the public and private sectors, these top-tier managers are often under tremendous pressure to work long hours, travel extensively and ultimately bring success to the organization. They typically develop policy, direct operations and provide guidance to reach organizational goals.

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