If you're researching graduate degrees, you may come across Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Public Administration (MPA) programs. Most people have heard of the MBA degree, but the MPA degree is a little less well-known. The two degrees do sound similar and have aspects in common. Both focus on leadership, strategic thinking, and advancing your career and impact. However, these two programs can position you for two different professional paths. Here is what MBA and MPA programs each have to offer, why you might consider one over the other, and how these two programs at South University prepare graduates to grow in their careers.
What is an MBA?
A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a versatile master’s degree targeted towards people who aspire to advance in the competitive, fast-paced world of business. An MBA degree is usually offered through a college or university’s school of business. Getting an MBA degree can prepare students to pursue leadership roles in private organizations.
Why Get an MBA?
An MBA degree typically emphasizes skills such as organizational communication, financial management, marketing, operations, and strategy. South University’s MBA degree is designed to prepare graduates to be forward-thinking, ethical leaders. Our MBA courses cover managerial economics, organizational behavior, supply chain management, business analysis, and more. Together, these MBA courses could help you understand how to drive innovation, navigate global challenges, create value in diverse business environments, and excel in today's job market.
What Can You Do with an MBA?
Whether you want to serve as a manager within a large corporation or lead a small start-up, getting an MBA may help you get on the right path. Our MBA courses is designed to prepare graduates to pursue roles such as:
- General and Operations Manager
- Project Manager
- Training and Development Manager
- Facilities, Sales, Industrial Production, or Administrative Manager
What Is an MPA?
A Master of Public Administration (MPA) is a graduate degree designed for people who want to focus their career in the public sector or non-profit management. The MPA degree is a great fit for those who are passionate about public service, social change, and the greater good.
Why Get an MPA?
At South University, students in our Master of Public Administration courses have the opportunity to learn the skills to manage programs, budgets, and people. By the time they enter the workforce, our graduates will be ready to serve their communities in important public and non-profit roles.
MPA program students will study economic, political, legal, and social institutions and processes that affect the actions and decisions of political leaders and public managers. The curriculum teaches budgeting, organizational dynamics, data analysis, ethical decision-making, fundraising, human resources, and volunteer management strategies that can help organizations achieve their goals. Our public administration courses also explore how to build strategic alliances within political and administrative structures.
What Can You Do with an MPA?
Completing an MPA program could prepare you to be a leader and problem solver in a government agency, non-profit management, and other mission-driven roles and organizations. After taking our public administration courses and earning your MPA degree, you might pursue jobs such as:
- City/County Supervisor/Manager
- General and Operations Managers
- Policy or Legislative Supervisor/Manager
- General Manager of a Public or Non-Profit Organization
Is an MPA or MBA Degree Best for You?
The answer depends on your goals, values, and the type of impact you want to make.
Choose the MBA degree if you're driven by innovation, business growth, and leading within a competitive global marketplace. If you see yourself managing a company, running a department, or building a new business, getting an MBA may be your best path.
Choose the MPA degree if you're inspired by and committed to public service, community leadership, or non-profit management. If you want to lead a social mission or improve lives through service, the MPA could give you the framework to make that difference.
Take the Next Step at South University
Both South University’s MBA and MPA programs are designed with flexibility and real-world applications in mind. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from faculty who bring both academic knowledge and industry insight into the classroom**. The programs also emphasize ethical leadership and practical skills to help you become a leader and manager to others who want to follow.
Whether you're leaning toward business or public service, South University master’s programs may help you grow. If you're still unsure which degree is right for you, our admissions team can help you weigh your options and career goals to find your best fit. Request information today to start the conversation!
*South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.
**Faculty credentials and experience may vary.
