“A MASTER OF PUBLIC
ADMINISTRATION (MPA)
DEGREE”
IR. Sugeng Endarsiwi, ST, EMBA, CMA-HK
Student Postgraduate at Univ. Esa Unggul, Jakarta
Indonesia

When considering graduate degree options, students are often faced with the difficult decision of determining exactly
which degree path is best for them. A Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree shares some common curricular
characteristics with a number of similar graduate options; however, each is uniquely designed to produce
professionals with specialized skill sets.
What is an MPA?
Designed for those seeking leadership roles in the public or nonprofit sector, MPA helps to develop skills in project
and program management, policy implementation, public financial management, and human resources.
Core principles of public administration:
Public Organization Management
Program Evaluation
Public Finance and Budgeting
Human Resources
Political and Legal Processes
Professional Communications
Upon graduation, students emerge prepared for careers in government, criminal justice, nonprofit management,
urban planning, analysis, government affairs, advocacy, and national security.

MPA vs. MPP
Professionals who aspire to obtain careers in government have two major options for graduate education: an MPA
or a Master of Public Policy (MPP). Both degree paths help students understand global concepts from social,
economic, and political contexts, emphasizing ethical policy communication.
How does an MPP differ from an MPA?
Aimed at students interested in analyzing, evaluating, and solving policy-related issues, an MPP degree focuses
heavily on concepts such as data management, statistical analysis, policy analysis and creation, and financial
modeling. Unlike an MPA—which prepares students for leadership-focused careers—MPP graduates tend to be
more qualified for analytical roles in fields such as health policy, advocacy, environmental policy, government,
nonprofits, and consulting.

MPA vs. MBA
Both an MPA degree and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree focus heavily on leadership and
operations management; and many aspiring public service leaders are unsure which path to pursue.
How does an MBA differ from an MPA?
Designed for aspiring business leaders, MBA programs focus on skills such as human resource management,
strategic thinking, business expertise, financial analysis, and consumer targeting.
Depending on their specialization, MBA graduates tend to be prepared for careers in fields such as marketing,
financial advising, entrepreneurship and consulting, whereas MPA@UNC graduates learn to apply their leadership
skills toward careers in public service.

MPA vs. MPH
Those interested in the dynamic and quickly growing field of public health often weigh two options: an MPA or a
Master of Public Health (MPH).
How does an MPH differ from an MPA?
MPH programs prepare students to work administratively and on the ground in key areas of public health. This
degree option is suited for those who feel certain they want to pursue a career in public health and healthcare
and who want to work closely with a community or population to address and prevent public health problems.
MPH programs typically place greater emphasis on theoretical exploration of population health, health policy,
epidemiology, and patterns of disease. MPA programs focus more heavily on program implementation and
management within these fields. For individuals who have a more general interest in public service, the MPA
degree is a more versatile choice, as it can lead to a wider range of career options.