Master of Public Affairs

If you're on a public service career path, and looking at grad schools, you may have considered a Master of Public Affairs or Administration. What is an MPA, and how is it distinct from nonprofit management, MBA, and other grad degrees?

• Part one is an overview of the degree and associated careers.
• Part Two is on coursework, field work, and certificates.
• Part Three is on admissions and financial aid.
• Read the transcript of the shows here.

The Guests

Julie Harrold, Director of Admissions and Recruitment, of the University of Minnesota Humphrey School of Public Affairs.
Katherine Meyer, Director of Recruiting, of Texas A&M Bush School of Government and Public Service.
Lisa Sperling, Recruitment and Career Services Coordinator, University of Georgia MPA program.

Learn more

• Idealist Grad Fairs tour the United States every summer and fall, and feature nonprofit management, public affairs, social work and other public service degrees — and they're touring the country all fall. See the schedule and sign up here on Idealist.org.
• Idealist Grad School Resource Center features an overview of the MPA degree, among others.

• BACK to grad school podcasts