What is the Difference Between MPA and MPP?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between a Master of Public Administration (MPA) and a Master of Public Policy (MPP) lies in their core focus and the skills they emphasize. Here are the key differences between the two degrees:
- Focus: MPA degrees are primarily focused on managing programs that serve the public good, preparing students for leadership roles in government and nonprofit organizations. On the other hand, MPP degrees emphasize policy research and evaluation, as well as the design and impact of policy.
- Skills: MPA programs develop management skills and techniques needed to implement policies, projects, and programs within organizations. These skills include leadership, budgeting, personnel management, public-private partnerships, project management, and organizational theory. In contrast, MPP programs train students to analyze and evaluate various aspects of public policy, emphasizing qualitative and quantitative research and analysis, as well as rigorous statistical analysis.
- Career Opportunities: MPA degrees open the door to a wider range of career options in government, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector. MPP degrees, on the other hand, are more focused on policy analysis and evaluation, leading to positions that may be less public-facing but still involve policies and programs with significant public impacts.
- Average Salary: While the average salary for MPP graduates is $78,000, the average salary for MPA graduates is $75,000.
Ultimately, choosing between an MPA and an MPP depends on your personal career goals, interests, and preferred work environment.
Comparative Table: MPA vs MPP
Masters of Public Administration (MPA) and Masters of Public Policy (MPP) are both graduate degrees focused on public affairs, but they have distinct differences in their focus, skills cultivated, and potential career paths. Here is a comparison table outlining the key differences between MPA and MPP degrees:
| Feature | MPA (Master of Public Administration) | MPP (Master of Public Policy) |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Managing public/nonprofit organizations | Analyzing, evaluating, and designing policies |
| Skills | Managerial, communication, and networking | Research methodology and data analysis |
| Career Paths | City manager, Chief of staff | Policy analyst, Director of public policy |
| Average Salary | $75,000 | $78,000 |
MPA degrees focus on the implementation and management of policies, preparing students for leadership and executive roles in public federal, state, and local agencies, as well as national and international nonprofit organizations and private firms. On the other hand, MPP degrees concentrate on the design and impact of policies, equipping students with research methodology and data analysis skills to analyze and evaluate policies. In summary, MPA degrees are more oriented towards management and implementation, while MPP degrees focus on policy analysis and design.