MPA Careers
MPA Careers: Skills to Improve Your Community
Lindenwood’s MPA online program is designed to help you become a leader for change in your community. As you prepare for diverse MPA careers, you’ll gain advanced skills in governmental budgeting, public finance, taxation, program-implementation, and the function of policy makers.
- $74,350 median annual salary for urban and regional planners
- 11% industry growth rate
- Thousands of new opportunities for MPA careers by 2029
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a current industry growth rate of 11% for urban and regional planners. At this pace, more than 4,000 new positions for this role alone will be created across the country by 2029.
Urban and Regional Planner
$74,350/year
Urban and regional planners ensure a community has the resources and businesses to flourish economically. These professionals plan for the future by facilitating updates to business and government buildings, expanding housing areas, and budgeting for new projects that support community growth.
Political Scientist
$122,220/year
Political scientists conduct research and public polls on current political issues and strategies utilized by politicians. Professionals in this role also measure the impact of political decisions on diverse communities.
Career and salary information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Additional MPA careers for graduates of this program:
- City administrator
- Legislative director
Request Information
As you’re making your decision about pursuing an online degree, you are likely to have questions. From program information to details about the application process, we’re here to help you find the answers you need.
Program Outcomes: Skills for Diverse Leadership Careers
When you complete the Master’s in Public Administration online program, you will be able to:
- Effectively use fiscal management, ethics, policy analysis, and business relationship skills to lead a public agency or organization
- Understand the ethical issues and theories relevant to public administration
- Develop, implement, and evaluate effective programs for local, state, or federal agencies
- Measure the impact of political decisions on diverse communities
- Make appropriate decisions while conducting urban and rural planning
Career Support
Lindenwood University is committed to supporting its students academically and professionally after graduation.
Contact an enrollment counselor at 855-941-0568 to learn more about the career services that are available to you.
Job Fairs
We host four job fairs per year, both on campus and through our partnerships within the Gateway Career Association.
Office of Career Services
We can help you begin your job search, make professional connections, and prepare for the job you want.
Alumni Network
When you graduate with a degree from Lindenwood, you’ll be a part of our extensive network of former students.
Find Your Strengths
Explore your talents with Gallup StrengthsQuest, an assessment tool that sets you up for career success.