Public Policy vs Public Administration
If you are considering a master’s degree, recognizing the similarities and differences between public service degree programs is crucial when weighing the opportunities. Some of the most recognized service degrees – the Master in Public Policy (MPP) and the Master in Public Administration (MPA) – focus on preparing students to take on leadership roles in public, private, nonprofit, and for-profit organizations, across a range of industries and fields. Despite the basic similarities, the curriculum delivered to students and the careers they are prepared for can vary greatly. These differences, and similarities, are outlined below.
The difference in salaries between a graduate with an MPA versus an MPP depends on many factors: years of career experience; region of employment; and, most importantly, career field or job. For example, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Social and Community Service Managers make a media of $69,600 per year while Political Scientists make a media salary of $125,350 per year. Below are some additional possible MPA and MPP career paths with BLS salary information.
- Administrative Services and Facilities Managers – Median Pay: $98,890 per year
- Human Resources Managers – Median Pay: $121,220 per year
- Public Relations and Fundraising Managers – Median Pay: $118,430 per year
- Survey Researchers – Median Pay: $59,870 per year
- Labor Relations Specialist – Median Pay: $73,240 per year
- Legislators – Median Pay: $53,560 per year
- Compensation and Benefits Managers – Median Pay: $125,130 per year
- General and Operations Managers – Median Pay: $125,740 per year
What is an MPP?
A Public Policy Master’s degree program examines economic and political factors that affect and influence policy formation. Public Policy is what “government (any public official who influences or determines public policy, including school officials, city council members, county supervisors, etc.) does or does not do about a problem that comes before them for consideration and possible action.”
In-depth study of these issues and real-world applications trains students to analyze, evaluate, and solve complex problems that affect communities across the world. MPP curriculum often incorporates qualitative and quantitative data to allow students to develop the high-level skills needed to pursue the areas of policy in which their passions lie.
MPP vs MPA
When it comes to pursuing a career in government, local or federal, students have two significant options: an MPP degree or an MPA. Both programs focus on introducing students to global issues from economic, environmental, and international factors, with the goal of strategic implementation and communication across the board.
While they are similar, they have big differences.
Aimed at students passionate about advocacy, fundraising, planning, and leadership, MPA programs are centered around concepts such as public organization management, public finance and budgeting, policy implementation, and urban planning. Whereas MPP programs prepare students to analyze, evaluate, and construct policies that are the framework for society. MPA graduates tend to be more qualified for public management, nonprofit leadership, and local government roles. Examples of MPA careers include: City Manager, Fundraising Officer, Nonprofit Coordinator, etc.
Why Get a Master’s Degree in Public Policy?
A master’s degree offers the tools you need to make a difference and create change in the complex landscape of 21st-century policymaking. In UNH's MPP program, you will learn how to develop sustainable approaches to societal problems and how to communicate strategically through real-world applications, deep policy connections, and a world-class curriculum.
At Carsey, you will create a personalized master’s degree based on your passions and graduate with the skill set that policy professionals need to succeed. Our built-in experiential learning opportunities are designed to deepen and broaden your education and network. These opportunities include meeting key policy makers at all levels of government throughout your time on campus and during our Washington, D.C., colloquium. Gain real-world experience through a policy internship and capstone project centered around your community.
What Careers Can You Pursue with an MPP?
Career paths for Public Policy graduates vary. Examples include:
- Policy Analyst or Advisor
- Program or Policy Leadership
- Nonprofit Leadership
Explore more career opportunities
As you can see, the similarities between these programs can make choosing your master’s degree very difficult. However, while they are similar, they have big differences. Each program has its distinguishing qualities and offers a range of career options. While policy implementation blankets each of these paths, a Master in Public Policy works to analyze, evaluate, and solve complex problems that span each of these sectors. With full-time, part-time, and accelerated options, UNH’s MPP program fits students from different backgrounds and professions.
