In the 2021-2022 school year alone, more than 50,000 U.S. students earned master’s degrees in these fields, which include public administration and public policy degrees. That represents a 20 percent increase in the number of degrees awarded in these fields compared with 10 years prior. 

Many choose to pursue these types of degrees to prepare for advancement in the government and nonprofit sectors, in roles that allow them to make an impact on society. But those considering an advanced degree that can help them make this type of difference may wonder whether a Master of Public Administration (MPA) or a Master of Public Policy (MPP) better suits their goals. 

What Are Public Policy and Public Administration Master’s Degrees? 

Exploring details about the MPA and MPP, and about public administration and public policy more broadly, can be helpful for those trying to choose between the two.  

What Is an MPA? 

Public administration refers to all aspects of managing a certain area of government operations at the local, state or federal level. Students often pursue master’s degrees in public administration to prepare for management roles in government agencies and nonprofit organizations. The advanced knowledge and skills the programs for these degrees are designed to provide to students — in areas such as leadership, ethics and communication — also can be useful for those in management positions in the private sector. 

Coursework in an MPA program generally covers subjects such as the following: 

• Public personnel administration 

• Government budgeting 

• Organizational theory 

• Organizational communication 

What Is an MPP? 

Public policy centers on analysis and evaluation of current government policies at the local, state or federal level, and recommendations for improving those policies or creating new ones. A master’s degree program in public policy generally provides advanced education that focuses on data review and problem-solving skills. 

Coursework in an MPP program covers subjects such as the following: 

• Economics 

• Public finance 

• Statistical analysis 

• Research methods 

MPA vs. MPP: Similarities 

Comparing an MPA and an MPP reveals some similarities, including their shared focus on public service. The similarities between the two-degree programs include the following. 

Advanced Public Policy Education 

Generally, MPA and MPP programs are designed for professionals seeking advancement in government or nonprofit roles. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) ranks both public administration and public policy among the top degrees that those working in the public sector and social services held in 2023. 

Two-Year Master’s Programs 

The MPA and MPP are both advanced degrees with programs that, in addition to classwork, typically offer students opportunities to complete a capstone, thesis or internship to bolster their education and gain professional experience. 

When pursued full time, these programs typically take about two years to complete, with additional time required for those studying part time. Online master’s programs in public administration and public policy both generally allow students flexibility to accommodate their work and other commitments. 

MPA vs. MPP: Differences 

The biggest difference between MPA and MPP degree programs is that Master of Public Administration programs emphasize the management of government agencies, while Master of Public Policy programs focus on research and analysis of public policies. Other key differences between these degree programs include the following. 

Scope of Focus 

Many MPA programs allow students to choose an area in public administration, such as nonprofit management or political science, as an emphasis within the overall curriculum. Generally, however, MPA programs include courses in a wide variety of public policy and leadership topics to help students build on their prior professional experiences and take on management roles, typically in government or nonprofit organizations.  

In MPP degree programs, students concentrate on the analysis of public policies to find areas for improvement and inform decision-making on current and future policies. 

Types of Career Outcomes 

MPA graduates generally pursue management and executive positions in which they implement policies that, depending on their roles, can effect change locally, nationally or globally. Common roles for MPA graduates include: 

• Emergency management director: Develops plans and leads the response to disasters and emergencies 

• Fundraising manager: Coordinates campaigns to attract donations from the public for nonprofit organizations 

• Human resources manager: Manages employees’ benefits, leads employees’ recruitment and determines and addresses employees’ needs 

• Public administrator: Oversees the enactment of policies at a local, state or federal government agency 

Graduates of MPP programs often work behind the scenes, serving as consultants and analysts who guide policy development in the public or private sector. Common roles for MPP graduates include: 

• Political analyst: Studies the political system, analyzes election outcomes and investigates the potential benefits of proposed policies 

• Budget analyst: Reviews an organization’s budget and prepares reports, making recommendations about how to use funding 

• Program manager: Oversees projects in an organization, ensuring that the work on those efforts aligns with strategies and stays within budgeted costs 

• Regulatory affairs manager: Establishes processes for oversight of government bodies, providing required documentation, monitoring budgets and communicating procedures to officials 

Make an Impact: Earn Your MPA 

If you’re interested in a degree that can help you take your career to the next level while implementing policies that make a difference in your community — and in society — explore SEMO Online’s Master of Public Administration program. 

The SEMO Online MPA emphasizes the knowledge and skills in areas such as communication, organization and analysis that are needed to succeed in the government and nonprofit sectors. This flexible online program allows you to meet your work obligations even as you pursue the degree that can advance your career.  

Discover how SEMO Online can help you reach your public service career goals today.