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:
- Retrieved on September 30, 2020, from publicadmincareers.com/public-service-careers/private-sector-jobs/
- Retrieved on September 30, 2020, from money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/bestcompanies/2011/snapshots/20.html
