The Master of Public Administration program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of what is needed to be an effective public service leader. Students will explore the most critical areas of public administration, including planning, financial budgeting, political analysis, and personnel administration, as well as contemporary issues in ethics, digital governance, NGOs, and global governance. The program exposes students to the essential components of public service professionalism to help them meet the challenges of the modern world.

Through a variety of in-depth courses and specialties, our online MPA program will also prepare you to take advantage of the current public sector job growth. Our vast alumni network, rich with real-world advice, will help you build strategic relationships in your desired industry. As a graduate of this program, you will be poised to occupy leadership positions in government, business, foundation, and nonprofit organizations.

Master of Public Administration Career Opportunities

Do you see yourself working in government, NGOs, or higher education? There are many different career paths available to you with a master of public administration degree. Master of public administration programs are similar to MBAs but are instead geared toward working for the public good. After graduating, you may choose to become a project manager, budget analyst, economist, city manager, executive director of a charity, or manager of a federal agency.

With a master of public administration degree, you can specialize beyond your undergraduate studies to help people on a deeper level. Our classes on digital and global governance will inspire you to set your sights on working within international organizations, such as the World Health Organization or the United Nations. Should you take your talents to the world of public education, you will have the opportunity to mold inquisitive minds, ensuring a well-rounded curriculum for comprehensive academics. Within the local, state, or federal government, you can use your education to work in public policy or criminal justice.

As an administrator of a foundation, agency, or organization that serves the public, you will be making decisions that impact the public as well as your staff. Even top administrators and executives balance minute details while thinking of the big picture. Your MPA will hone your communication skills so that you will be poised to engage with the public and private sectors on key issues that impact everyone.

Online MPA programs make you more eligible for promotions and higher salary ranges. Talented people in public administration roles are always highly sought after. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that social and community service managers will experience a 12% job growth rate from 2021 through 2031, with median pay at $74,000 annually as of 2021.

Jobs in health and emergency management aren't just fulfilling, they're always in demand — especially as the world continues to navigate disease outbreaks like the COVID-19 pandemic. Medical and health service managers make $101,340 annually (on average as of 2021) and a strong 28% increase in job growth is predicted from 2021-2031. As current events unfold, new organizations and government agencies, including climate change response teams, will also need your expertise and leadership.

Public administration jobs require a mindset of service. Perhaps you already have a community in mind that you want to better serve with your master of public administration degree. When you study for an MPA online degree, you'll gain the experience you need to help communities across the nation while still serving the communities near to your home and dear to your heart.

Through the UOnline Master in Public Administration online program, you will also get experience managing and communicating remotely. As remote and hybrid work continue to flourish, you will be well-equipped to handle the technology and working lifestyle.

Whether you choose to stay on your current path toward public service, transition away from the private sector, or start your own foundation, the Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Miami is the next step to starting a long and fulfilling career in public administration. Apply to complete your MPA online today!

Tuition

*Based on the UM 2024-2025 UOnline Tuition and fees rate. Tuition and fees are subject to change.
You can learn more about financial aid opportunities available to you here.