Top Highest Paid Public Administration Careers
Consider a sponsored online MPA program currently accepting applications.
| University / School | Online Program | Admissions |
|---|---|---|
University of North Carolina |
Online Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Earn your MPA online in as few as 18 months. GRE waivers available to those with an advanced degree. Five concentrations. NASPAA-accredited. |
|
Syracuse University |
Executive Master of Public Administration (Executive MPA)
Earn an MPA for Executives from the #1-ranked Maxwell School. Complete in as few as 15 months. |
No GRE Required |
University of Texas Permian Basin |
Online Master of Public Administration
Complete in as little as 12 months, six start dates a year, cost-effective tuition. |
|
American University |
Online MPAP - Master of Public Administration and Policy
Top-ranked school for public affairs. NASPAA-accredited. Online MPA, MPAP, MPP. |
|
Johns Hopkins University AAP |
Master of Arts in Public Management
Areas of focus in Public Administration and Leadership and Public Policy Evaluation. |
|
Johns Hopkins University AAP |
Master of Arts in Government
100% online, part time option. |
|
University of Delaware |
Master of Public Administration
NASPAA accredited, 30-month online MPA. |
|
Click to view all online MPA programs (and related) that are taking applications now for 2023.
The 10 Highest Paying Jobs in Public Administration
The Masters degree in Public Administration can provide careers in various fields throughout the United States. Depending on specialty, individuals may find that there are great financial opportunities available in very different sections of the private and public sector. From financial careers to careers in management, there is something for almost everyone in this line of work. Graduates wanting to make the most out of their public administration degree program can view some of the top online MPA programs, or you can continue on to read about the best paying careers prior to choosing a specialty.
Consider a sponsored online MPA program currently accepting applications.
| University / School | Online Program | Admissions |
|---|---|---|
University of North Carolina |
Online Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Earn your MPA online in as few as 18 months. GRE waivers available to those with an advanced degree. Five concentrations. NASPAA-accredited. |
|
Syracuse University |
Executive Master of Public Administration (Executive MPA)
Earn an MPA for Executives from the #1-ranked Maxwell School. Complete in as few as 15 months. |
No GRE Required |
University of Texas Permian Basin |
Online Master of Public Administration
Complete in as little as 12 months, six start dates a year, cost-effective tuition. |
Click for online MPA programs that are currently taking applications.
The guts of public administration degree programs involve a strong focus on leadership techniques and methods that are common in public agencies. In some cases, having a public administration degree can express higher education in topics that are necessary for effective leadership in many public organizations that are concerned with providing helpful services to society as a whole.
An Overview of a Career in Public Administration (then on to the list)
Some of the highest paying jobs for people with this degree are found within leadership positions at various companies in the U.S. The highest paid jobs list below shows how top positions in finance, education and healthcare can be the most profitable for those interested in pursuing this type of degree.
Consider a Featured Online MPA Program
| University / School | Online Program | Admissions |
|---|---|---|
American University |
Online MPAP - Master of Public Administration and Policy
Top-ranked school for public affairs. NASPAA-accredited. Online MPA, MPAP, MPP. |
|
Johns Hopkins University AAP |
Master of Arts in Public Management
Areas of focus in Public Administration and Leadership and Public Policy Evaluation. |
|
Johns Hopkins University AAP |
Master of Arts in Government
100% online, part time option. |
|
University of Delaware |
Master of Public Administration
NASPAA accredited, 30-month online MPA. |
|
Aurora University |
Online MPA (one year)
100% online, affordable tuition. |
Read along in the list below to see if you would be qualified to obtain one of these high paying positions in the field of public administration. In each write-up of the highest paying jobs, we have included what might be the best online MPA degree program, as well as salary information in 2020 compared to a previous year.
List of the Top 10 Best Paid Jobs Within Public Administration
Listed below are the top ten highest paying careers within public administration for individuals with a Masters in Public Administration.
10. Financial Analyst – $81,590
Financial Analysts can be found in banks, nonprofit organizations, or even nationally known businesses. These professionals assist companies with making smart and beneficial investment and spending decisions. Financial planning is a necessity for companies that wish to get the most out of their business. Companies rely heavily on the expertise of financial analysts to monitor and track financial transactions so that business is conducted efficiently. On average, financial analysts earn $81,590 per year (BLS, 2020), vs. $80,310 per year back in 2015.
MPA Degree to Consider: MPA in Financial Budgeting
| Year, Source | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| BLS, 2020 | $81,590 |
| BLS, 2015 | $80,310 |
9. Urban Planners – $74,350
Urban planners are the leading source of information for accommodating growing communities and promoting proper utilization of resources throughout urbanized areas. These professionals are vital to cities that are experiencing a population growth or simply wanting to make their cities more comfortable for the community. By changing local facilities and upgrading existing structures, urban planners can create areas that are more functional for large communities. The salaries of these professionals vary depending on location and city size, so the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates salaries for this profession ranging from $42,940 to $102,200 per year, and an average of $74,350 as of 2020.
MPA Degree to Consider: Economic Development MPA
| Year, Source | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| BLS, 2020 | $74,350 |
8. Logistician – $74,750
Logisticians are found in nearly every industry. It is the responsibility of the logistician to monitor the transfer of products or services from the beginning stages of development to delivery. Since most employees within organizations are only responsible for specific sectors or branches of an organization, logisticians provide a very valuable service to the companies in which they work. Depending on location and industry, salaries can vary for this position. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that logisticians earn between $45,830 and $115,960 per year, and a median salary of $74,750 as of 2020 data.
MPA Degree to Consider: Masters of Public Affairs
| Year, Source | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| BLS, 2020 | $74,750 |
7. Medical/Health Service Manager – $100,980
Medical/health service managers are a major part of the smooth operation of hospitals and medical centers. In the busy healthcare environment, medical or health service managers can be found overseeing a staff, planning effective policies, and coordinating healthcare services. These managers can potentially be found in specific clinical areas or overseeing operations for an entire hospital. On average, medical/health service managers earn around $100,980 per year as of 2020 compared to $94,500 per year in 2015 (BLS).
MPA Degree to Consider: Masters of Public Administration
| Year, Source | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| BLS, 2020 | $100,980 |
| BLS, 2015 | $94,500 |
6. Training and Development Managers – $113,350
Most companies require training and development for their employees. In order to incoming employees to learn the basic requirements or safety procedures for their company, training specialist must properly inform them of the company’s individual requirements. Training and development managers plan, coordinate, and implement effective training programs for employees in various organizations. These managers are vital to the efficiency of companies and have the potential to earn $113,350 per year as of 2020, compared to 2015’s statistics of $102,640 per year on average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
MPA Degree to Consider: MPA
| Year, Source | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| BLS, 2020 | $113,350 |
| BLS, 2015 | $102,690 |
5. Executive Director – $104,690
Executive directors are the overseers of nonprofit organizations. These professionals are responsible for hiring new employees, budget management, and staff management. Executive directors monitor the company as a whole to ensure that the business practices being conducted are efficient and effective. The executive director is the leader of nonprofits and provides a great deal of service to his or her respective company. The BLS reports that executive directors earn $104,690 per year on average as of 2020.
MPA Degree to Consider: MPA
| Year, Source | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| BLS, 2020 | $104,690 |
| BLS, 2015 | $102,690 |
4. Public Relations Manager – $116,180
Public relations managers deal directly with public opinion. It is the responsibility of public relation managers to provide support to clients and provide a great influence into the opinion of others. Public relations can be an important part of how popular a business is within the public eye. Since all business is reliant on how involved the community is, the public relations manager is the lead source of publicity for a company. On average, Public relations manager can earn around $116,180 in 2020 vs. $104,140 per year in 2015, depending on their area and business (BLS).
MPA Degree to Consider: Masters of Public Relations or Online MPR
Average Salary Range: $104,140
| Year, Source | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| BLS, 2020 | $116,180 |
| BLS, 2015 | $104,140 |
3. Human Resources Manager – $116,720
When it comes to the administrative functions in a business, the human resource manager is the go-to person for information. It is this manager that plan, coordinates, and implements the various administrative factors that go into a successful business. Human resource managers are responsible for managing pay and benefits for employees as well as assisting in strategic planning for better business practices overall. Dealing with both intra-company employees and business clients, human resource managers having a variety of responsibility. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that these professionals earn $116,720 as of 2020, compared to $104,440 per year on average in 2015.
MPA Degree to Consider: MPA or Online MPA
| Year, Source | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| BLS, 2020 | $116,720 |
| BLS, 2015 | $104,440 |
2. Financial Managers – $129,890
Financial managers are responsible for monitoring the overall financial health of the organizations in which they work. Without an able financial manager, it would likely be impossible for businesses to exhibit successful financial planning. Strategy is the key to success in this line of work, as it is needed to plan and organize financial decisions that can have a direct impact on how well a business performs. Financial managers typically earn around $129,890 per year as of 2020 compared to $117,990 per year in 2015, according to the BLS.
MPA Degree to Consider: MPA in Finance or MPA in Economics
Average Salary Range: $117,990
| Year, Source | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| BLS, 2020 | $129,890 |
| BLS, 2015 | $117,990 |
1. Chief Executive Officers – $193,850
At the top of the private sector, chief executives, or CEOs, are the leaders of large private organizations. This career differs from the executive director in that CEOs are typically found in private organizations rather than public service or nonprofits. These directors are responsible for the everyday operations of various types of companies and provide strategies for reaching goals and meeting guidelines for future business. CEOs typically oversee hiring decisions and cooperation with other organizations. This is a top tier career option for individuals wanting the most out of their degree program. These directors have the potential to earn $193,850 (BLS, 2020), vs. $185,850 per year on average back in 2015.
MPA Degree to Consider: Masters of Public Administration, MPA in Finance or MPA in Economic Development
| Year, Source | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| BLS, 2020 | $193,850 |
| BLS, 2015 | $185,850 |
A Few Other Public Administration Careers
- Financial and Insurance Management: Public administration degree programs are great options for upcoming leaders in the public domain. One of the most chosen fields for administrative professionals is in financial departments of large-scale organizations all over the country. Finance and insurance managers may be a part of a large team of professionals that are responsible for undertaking the financial duties of the company in which they work. These professionals can earn around $102,070 per year in the U.S. (BLS).
- Education Administration and Management: Another field that is highly influenced by public administration specialists is the field of education. In this field, professionals may investigate educational needs of social areas, implement policies and lead teams that guide school systems to educational success. Those that obtain a career involved with the field of education can work to make a difference in the quality of education within their area and can earn around $89,970 per year on average (BLS).
- Healthcare Administration: Healthcare administration specialists may work in specialized medical fields or oversee the operations of busy hospitals in the country. These leaders may bear a large responsibility in their positions, including those that are concerned with financial management, employee training and patient care. The average income for healthcare administration specialists is $86,430 per year (BLS).
Top Public Administration Employers
Public administration is an incredibly widespread field that influences many different public organizations. The skills learned throughout degree programs in this subject can be applicable to many different professional areas, including those that apply indirect skills in this program. Some sectors of society are more popular for public administration graduates, since the topics and interests of these organizations are aligned with the main points provided in public administration degree programs. Healthcare, for instance, can allow professionals in this field to engage in policy review, development and leadership practices that are heavily focused on during the educational experience. Graduates of these programs can also regularly be found in non-profit agencies as well as state and local government offices.
- Healthcare
- Business/Non-Profit Agencies
- State/Local/National Government
Public Administration Occupations – Wages, Growth by 2024
Below is a list of many different jobs that you may consider with a public administration degree.
| Public Administration Career | Program Area |
% Employment Change 2014-2024 |
AVG Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chief executives | Public Administration | -1.20% | $175,110 |
| Judges, magistrate judges, and magistrates | Law | 0.60% | $126,930 |
| Lawyers | Law | 5.60% | $115,820 |
| Law teachers, postsecondary | Legal Studies | 21.70% | $105,250 |
| Public relations and fundraising managers | Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication | 7.10% | $104,140 |
| Advertising and promotions managers | Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication | 4.70% | $95,890 |
| Medical and health services managers | Health Policy Analysis | 16.90% | $94,500 |
| Administrative law judges, adjudicators, and hearing officers | Law | -3.60% | $90,600 |
| Transportation, storage, and distribution managers | Public Administration | 2.20% | $86,630 |
| Financial examiners | Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation | 9.70% | $78,010 |
| Geographers | Geography | -1.60% | $74,260 |
| Sociologists | Research Methodology and Quantitative Methods | -0.70% | $73,760 |
| Postmasters and mail superintendents | Public Administration | -26.20% | $70,640 |
| Technical writers | Technical and Scientific Communication | 10.20% | $70,240 |
| Producers and directors | Radio and Television | 9.10% | $68,440 |
| Emergency management directors | Critical Incident Response/Special Police Operations | 6.20% | $67,330 |
| Broadcast news analysts | Journalism | -12.60% | $65,530 |
| Multimedia artists and animators | Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics and Special Effects | 6% | $63,970 |
| Social and community service managers | Human Services | 9.50% | $63,530 |
| Communications teachers, postsecondary | Communication | 9.70% | $63,410 |
| Social work teachers, postsecondary | Social Work | 13.90% | $63,390 |
| Agents and business managers of artists, performers, and athletes | Sports Communication | 2.50% | $62,940 |
| Film and video editors | Photojournalism | 17.60% | $61,750 |
| Writers and authors | Communication | 2.30% | $60,250 |
| First-line supervisors of correctional officers | Corrections | 3.10% | $59,720 |
| Transit and railroad police | Security and Loss Prevention Services | 3.50% | $59,670 |
| Criminal justice and law enforcement teachers, postsecondary | Corrections | 21.40% | $58,770 |
| Social workers | Social Work | 3.80% | $58,560 |
| Arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators | Law | 9.20% | $58,020 |
| Public relations specialists | Communication | 6.20% | $56,770 |
| Fire inspectors and investigators | Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician | 5.50% | $56,730 |
| Editors | Communication | -5.30% | $56,010 |
| Legal support workers | Legal Assistant/Paralegal | -0.40% | $53,920 |
| Sound engineering technicians | Communications Technology/Technician | 7.60% | $53,330 |
| Healthcare social workers | Social Work | 19.30% | $52,380 |
| Health educators | Health Communication | 12.20% | $51,960 |
| Judicial law clerks | Law | -6.30% | $50,740 |
| Set and exhibit designers | Design and Visual Communications | 6.80% | $49,530 |
| Court reporters | Court Reporting/Court Reporter | 1.50% | $49,500 |
| Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists | Social Work | 3.60% | $49,360 |
| Camera operators, television, video, and motion picture | Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology/Technician | 2% | $49,080 |
| Paralegals and legal assistants | Legal Assistant/Paralegal | 7.60% | $48,810 |
| Marriage and family therapists | Social Work | 14.80% | $48,600 |
| First-line supervisors of protective service workers | Securities Services Administration/Management | 4.60% | $46,900 |
| Meeting, convention, and event planners | Facilities Planning and Management | 9.90% | $46,840 |
| Private detectives and investigators | Criminal Justice/Police Science | 5.20% | $45,610 |
| Counselors | Social Work | 11% | $45,530 |
| Media and communication workers | Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia | 10.30% | $45,220 |
| Title examiners, abstractors, and searchers | Legal Assistant/Paralegal | -0.30% | $44,370 |
| Legal secretaries | Legal Administrative Assistant/Secretary | -4.10% | $43,200 |
| Eligibility interviewers, government programs | Community Organization and Advocacy | 1.60% | $43,170 |
| Social science research assistants | Social Sciences | 5.60% | $42,480 |
| Child, family, and school social workers | Juvenile Corrections | 6.20% | $42,350 |
| Mental health and substance abuse social workers | Social Work | 18.90% | $42,170 |
| Community and social service specialists | Developmental Services Worker | 8.20% | $41,890 |
| Bailiffs | Criminal Justice/Police Science | 4.70% | $41,670 |
| Correctional officers and jailers | Corrections | 3.70% | $40,530 |
| Prepress technicians and workers | Graphic Communications | -24.60% | $38,270 |
| Broadcast technicians | Communications Technology/Technician | -6.50% | $37,490 |
| Community health workers | Health Communication | 14.90% | $36,300 |
| Printing press operators | Printing Management | -12.50% | $35,240 |
| Photographers | Photojournalism | 3.10% | $31,710 |
| Radio and television announcers | Communication | -14.30% | $30,960 |
| Social and human service assistants | Developmental Services Worker | 11.40% | $30,830 |
| Etchers and engravers | Graphic Communications | -2.70% | $29,810 |
| Public address system and other announcers | Speech Communication and Rhetoric | 2.90% | $26,930 |
| Legislators | Public Administration | -0.70% | $20,500 |
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