Experienced professionals looking to elevate their careers and pursue leadership positions may find investing in a graduate degree program worthwhile. Depending on your field and your area of expertise, you may find yourself looking into an MPA vs. MBA degree. Understanding the differences between these two graduate degree programs will help you select the right program for your personal and professional goals.
Understanding MPA and MBA Degrees
Both the master of public administration degree (MPA) and the master of business administration degree (MBA) are graduate degrees designed for experienced professionals looking to develop their leadership skills and pursue higher-level positions within their fields. While both programs have a focus on business practices and fundamentals, they are designed for two different types of professionals. Understanding the differences between the MPA vs. MBA degree could help you make the right investment in your education.
The Essence of an MPA Degree
The master of public administration degree, commonly referred to as the MPA degree, is a graduate degree designed for professionals pursuing a career in public administration or public service. The MPA degree focuses on the specialized skills and business practices required to implement policies and launch projects while effectively using public funding. Nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and public service organizations may choose candidates for leadership positions who have earned an MPA degree.
The Core of an MBA Degree
The master of business administration degree, which most business professionals and organizations know as an MBA, is a graduate degree aimed at professionals interested in leadership and management positions in the private sector. While similar in scope to the MPA degree, Investopedia notes that the MBA degree focuses primarily on developing the business acumen required to lead organizations through a variety of challenges and circumstances while also honing leadership skills. The MBA degree is a sought-after qualification in the business world, making it a valuable investment for anyone interested in career advancement.
Curriculum Comparisons: MPA vs. MBA
As you begin to explore your options for graduate degree programs, you will want to take a look at the curriculum requirements for both the MPA and MBA degrees. Both programs will have coursework rooted in business fundamentals, but each will also offer specialized coursework that may be more relevant to your chosen career path. It is important to consider the course requirements and evaluate the caliber of the faculty members who will be teaching those courses to you.
Key Subjects in an MPA Program
An MPA program is designed specifically for those interested in a career in the public sector. Therefore, the coursework focuses more heavily on the skills required to lead publicly funded organizations. Some of the courses that may be required as part of an MPA degree include:
- Human Resource Management
- Public Information Management
- Nonprofit Administration
- Public Policy
- Executive Policy Leadership
- Administration of Arts and Cultural Programming
Central Courses in an MBA Program
An MBA program is tailored to meet the needs of professionals focused on career advancement in the private sector, so the coursework is more focused on advanced business topics.
Some of the core courses required for an MBA degree include:
- Finance and Investment Strategy
- Business Analytics
- Organizational Leadership
- Marketing
- Business Strategy and Development
- Ethical Leadership in Business
- Quantitative Analysis
In addition, students may also have to complete additional coursework that relates to their chosen concentration. Some of the concentrations that may be available as part of an MBA program include business analytics, finance, human resource management, marketing, project management, supply chain management, and more.
Career Trajectories Post-MPA vs. MBA
Both the MPA and MBA degrees provide experienced professionals with an opportunity to develop advanced skills that may allow them to pursue higher-level positions in their field. The main difference is that the MPA program is best for those who have chosen a career in public service, while the MBA degree is ideal for those working in the private sector.
Public Sector Opportunities With an MPA
The MPA degree could equip you with the skills required to open the doors to a variety of opportunities within the public sector. Some of the most common career opportunities for graduates with an MPA degree include:
- Public Programs Coordinator
- City Manager
- Public Affairs Specialist
- Urban Planner
- Public Data Analyst
- Executive Director of a Nonprofit Organization
- Public Works Director
Corporate Ladders to Climb With an MBA
The MBA degree is ideal for those who work in the private sector and want to pursue leadership positions within their industry. These are some of the common jobs available to MBA graduates:
- Financial Analyst
- Policy Analyst
- Human Resource Manager
- Health Administrator
- Marketing Director
- Project Manager
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Chief Executive Officer
The career opportunities available to you after you earn your MBA degree will vary significantly based on your professional experience, your chosen concentration, the skills you develop throughout the program, and your geographic location.
Making the Choice: Factors to Consider
Once you have a better understanding of the differences between the MPA vs. MBA degree programs, you may want to consider other factors before you make your final decision. As a prospective student, you will want to evaluate the time that you currently have available, the program model that will work best for your personal and professional responsibilities, and your ability to invest in your education. Pursuing a graduate degree is a big step to take, and it is important to make the best decision for you personally.
Long-Term Career Goals and Degree Alignment
As you look into the different degree programs available, you will want to evaluate the required coursework and the different concentrations you may choose from. It is important to select a graduate program that allows you to leverage your experience in your industry while allowing you to develop the skills required to accomplish your long-term career goals. For example, suppose you are interested in a career as a data analyst in the private sector. In that case, an MBA program with a concentration in business intelligence and analytics may be a better option for you than an MPA degree program.
Financial Investment and Return on Education
Regardless of whether you choose the MBA or MPA, you will be required to make a significant financial investment in your education. It is essential to choose the degree that will allow you to build the skills required to pursue career advancement opportunities in your chosen industry, as this is the best way to get a solid return on your investment in your education.
Considering an MBA vs. MPA Degree? Explore Your Options at Post University
As you compare the MBA vs. MBA degree, you will find that there are distinct differences and benefits associated with each program. At Post University, we offer an online Master of Business Administration program with more than a dozen concentration options and an online Master of Public Administration (MPA) program. Both degrees allow you to tailor your education to suit your professional interests and personal goals. These graduate programs are uniquely designed to provide students with an advanced understanding of key concepts while simultaneously honing their leadership skills.
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Please note jobs and/or career outcomes highlighted in this blog do not reflect jobs or career outcomes expected from any Post program. To learn more about Post’s programs and their outcomes, please fill out a form to speak with an admissions advisor.
