Ten Companies That Hire MPA Graduates

Ten Companies That Hire MPA Graduates

Even the most dedicated among us sometimes like to keep our options open. Fortunately, when you’re earning a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree, you don’t have to limit yourself to pursuing a traditional career path. Many companies hire MPA graduates knowing that the skills they’ve acquired are as valuable in the for-profit sector as they are in the government and not-for-profit worlds. Among the many companies likely to hire MPA graduates, these 10 stand out:

1. Microsoft

The software giant employs more than 156,000 people from a variety of disciplines, including business development, customer success, research and human resources. The company website advises applicants, “Help us get to know you by explaining how your prior experience and successes have prepared you for the role you’re pursuing at Microsoft.”

2. Walmart

The general manager and senior executive at Walmart lists his MPA degree among his credentials, as well as a continuing dedication to public service as evidenced by his community volunteer work.

3. Ernst & Young

One of the world’s largest professional services networks, Ernst & Young has a Performance Improvement practice mission that values “building a better working world by helping our clients solve their most complex issues.” The company advertises openings for candidates pursuing a wide variety of graduate degrees, including the MPA.

4. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York

At the forefront of the financial world, the Federal Reserve frequently lists “MBA or MPA preferred” among its hiring qualifications. Many companies hire MPA graduates, as well as those with graduate business degrees, because they know the value of the public-sector equivalent.

5. The Washington Post

Media companies value experts who speak with insider knowledge about government and policy. For example, former CNN reporter Eugene Scott, now a Washington Post writer covering identity politics, has an MPA degree.

6. Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

Like many insurance companies, Anthem looks to experts in ethics, compliance and healthcare administration—areas of expertise for many MPA graduates—to interact with stakeholders, regulators and clients.

7. Baker Tilly

This fast-growing, international public accounting firm headquartered in Chicago “recognizes the unique challenges of public entities providing consulting and internal auditing,” and lists the MPA as a desirable degree for employees working with clients in the public sector. In fact, consulting is a growing area of employment for those with MPA degrees.1

8. IBM

A recognized leader at the intersection of technology, people and process, IBM offers world-class learning opportunities, mentoring and a flexible work environment, as well as career opportunities for MPA graduates.

9. The Walt Disney Company

Like many large corporations, the world’s largest entertainment company has a Social Responsibility team that uses an understanding of management, reporting and public policy—all areas MPA degree-holders understand—to unleash good in the world.

10. Cisco

Ranked by CNN among the 100 best companies to work for2, this networking giant has one of the highest percentages of telecommuting employees, and offers many opportunities for individuals with master’s degrees in management and administration.

Advance Your Career with the Kent State Online MPA

High-profile companies and many lesser-known employers recognize the value of a Master of Public Administration degree. They hire MPA graduates because this advanced degree hones the leadership and management skills needed to make any organization more competitive.

Create the career you’ve envisioned. Kent State’s entirely online MPA program will develop your expertise, preparing you for success in leadership.


Sources

  1. Retrieved on September 30, 2020, from publicadmincareers.com/public-service-careers/private-sector-jobs/
  2. Retrieved on September 30, 2020, from money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/bestcompanies/2011/snapshots/20.html
The editorial team at Kent State Online is composed of dedicated professionals with expertise in higher education, digital marketing, and content strategy. Our mission is to create insightful, engaging, and informative content that empowers prospective students to make informed decisions about advancing their education and careers.
Latest Blogs
Customize your education with the online Bachelor’s Degree in Integrative Studies at Kent State University. This degree allows students to design a curriculum tailored to their interests and career goals. With a flexible program structure that lets them combine courses from various disciplines and lines, students gain a broad range of knowledge and skills that are highly valued in today’s job market.
In today’s digital age, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have become an indispensable tool across various industries, from urban planning and homeland security to environmental management and beyond.
Kent State University’s Online Master’s in Public Administration has moved up in the U.S. News rankings! The program is currently ranked 135 (out of 270) in the U.S. News 2024 Best Public Affairs Programs. The program is also tied for 4th place in Ohio and second place in Northeast Ohio.
Explore Our Online Programs
Find a Program
Online Minors
Online Non-Degree Graduate Licensure Programs
Get Started
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Center for Adult Veteran Services
Approximately 1,500 international students from 100 countries are enrolled at Kent State University. We’re excited to have you join us, and our international admission team is here to help you every step of the way.
About Kent State Online
Contact Us
Tuition and Costs
Contact Us