After the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. workforce experienced what became known as the Great Resignation, with more than 50 million Americans voluntarily leaving their jobs. However, research from advisory firm Gartner suggests that it may be more accurately described as the “Great Reflection,” as its findings indicate that many workers left in search of a career providing a greater sense of purpose. 

In today’s workforce, many professionals are seeking careers in which their workplace fosters a shared purpose and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Those asking, “What is a public administration degree?” may find that it provides a pathway to a purpose-driven career. A degree such as a Master of Public Administration (MPA) equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to drive change and shape the future through public service.  

What Is Public Administration?

Public administration involves shaping and implementing policies for government and other public service organizations. It encompasses planning, organizing, coordinating and overseeing government operations. Historically, public administration has also been referred to as civil service. 

What Is a Public Administration Degree?

A public administration degree prepares students for careers in public administration, managing government and nonprofit organizations. With this degree, students learn to become ethical and impactful leaders, honing their leadership, communication and analytical skills as they prepare to address critical issues and support diverse communities. Coursework covers topics such as organizational theory, public policy analysis, research methodology and government budgeting. 

Benefits of a Public Administration Degree

A career in public administration can be highly fulfilling, especially for those looking for purpose-driven careers. The benefits of pursuing this degree include the following: 

• Becoming an impactful leader: Public administration degrees not only allow students to prepare for their new careers but also shape them into future leaders. 

• Understanding the needs of diverse populations: In a public administration degree program, students learn about and engage with many different types of communities, preparing them to develop policies and programs that effectively address each community’s unique needs. 

• Thinking ethically: A public administration program teaches graduates to evaluate ethical considerations before implementing new programs and policies, equipping them to serve communities responsibly and effectively.  

• Connecting with like-minded professionals: Students in this degree program learn from professionals who have worked in public administration, as well as other students who are passionate about making a positive impact on the world. 

• Honing communication skills: Public administration degrees place a strong focus on effective interpersonal communication, helping students develop the skills needed to convey complex ideas clearly.  

Career Paths for Graduates with a Public Administration Degree

Public administration degrees prepare students for diverse career opportunities that center on service and community support, making them an excellent choice for those looking to work in fields that make a meaningful difference. These individuals may work for local government agencies or nonprofit groups, among other organizations. 

Emergency Management Director

Emergency management directors are leaders who prepare plans, procedures and programs for responding to emergency situations, such as natural disasters. They work behind the scenes and on the front line, delivering necessary aid during and after emergencies.  

As of 2023, the median annual pay for this position was about $84,000, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Those looking to pursue this career may find ample opportunities, as the number of positions for emergency management directors is expected to grow by 4 percent between 2023 and 2033, about the same as the national average for all occupations. 

Operations Research Analyst

Operations research analysts use analytical skills to help organizations solve complex issues. They collect data; identify problems; develop tests and other quantitative models; and communicate their findings to key decision-makers, along with recommendations on how to proceed. 

According to the BLS, the median annual pay for operations research analysts was about $83,600 as of 2023. Employment in this occupation is also expected to grow at a rate of 23 percent between 2023 and 2033, much faster than the national average. 

Human Resources Manager

Human resources (HR) managers plan, organize and direct the administrative functions of a business or an organization, including management of employee relations. They serve as a bridge between leadership and staff and play a key role in strategic planning and boosting overall efficiency. 

Many different types of HR managers exist, including labor relations directors, who oversee employee policies and develop labor contracts, and recruiting managers, who implement hiring strategies and supervise recruitment teams. 

According to the BLS, the median annual pay of HR managers was about $136,400 as of 2023. This position is expected to grow at a rate of 6 percent between 2023 and 2033, outpacing the national average. 

Postsecondary Education Administrator

Postsecondary education administrators oversee faculty research, academics and student services at colleges and universities. They can serve in various roles, including admissions, in which they evaluate applications, meet with prospective students and manage enrollment numbers. 

These professionals may also become provosts, who develop academic policies and budgets, or academic deans, who oversee operations for a specific school within their college or university. They may also work in the registrar’s office, maintaining student and course records, or in student affairs, where they advise students, create support networks, and coordinate activities and events. 

According to the BLS, the median annual pay for this position was about $102,600 as of 2023, and the number of jobs for postsecondary education administrators is expected to grow by 3 percent between 2023 and 2033, about as fast as the national average. 

Find Your New Calling with a Public Administration Degree

A public administration degree can lead to a rewarding career, offering diverse opportunities to make a positive impact, both locally and globally. With a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from SEMO Online, students with a deep commitment to public service can find purpose-driven careers that prepare them to make a difference.  

This flexible program allows students to create their own path, offering them the choice of either writing a thesis or completing an internship with a nonprofit or government organization. Students also design their own course track, taking classes that form the foundation of public administration before specializing in either nonprofit management or state and local governance. Students in the fully online program have access to the same holistic support services that Southeast Missouri State University’s on-campus students enjoy.  

Take your next step toward making an impact with SEMO Online.