A master’s in public policy focuses on all aspects of public policy- from assessing public problems to developing appropriate policy responses, and even evaluating a program’s effectiveness. Read on to learn more about this program and to find out if pursuing an MPP is worth it for you.
Salary
Salary is one benefit of the MPP. The average salary for a policy analyst (a common job for those who hold the MPP degree) is estimated to start at around $64,000.
There are other financial aspects (besides a great starting salary) that make this degree worth it. Here are a few.
- Those with master’s degrees are more likely to earn more than those in their field without master’s degrees.
- Federal workers are estimated to move up a step in their pay grade once every 1-2 years.
- Don’t worry, you don’t have to commit to being a policy analyst to make the big bucks. There are plenty of job opportunities with similar starting salaries that you can pursue after obtaining your MPP- such as development directors, or hospital policy analysts.
Transferable Skills
Another reason this degree is worth your time and energy? The number of skills you will gain! Unlike other degree programs, the skills you gain in an MPP degree can help you in all aspects of life, and can be transferred from the office to the boardroom, to the PTA meeting!
Here are some of the skills you can expect to gain after completing this program.
- You will be able to successfully analyze data.
- You will be able to confidently assess emerging problems.
- You will be able to efficiently develop policy responses.
- You will be able to effectively weigh various solutions.
Valuable Life Experiences
Another part of the program that makes this degree “worth it” is the amount of real-life experience you will gain throughout the program. Here are a few examples-
- Internships focused on current policy issues.
- Opportunities to participate in applied research.
- Capstone projects that allow you to work with your local community.
These experiences are so important in the process of creating a well-rounded individual. They allow you to learn from others in your field, work alongside future colleagues, and find lifelong mentors.
Making a Change In The World
The most important reason why an MPP is worth it? You’ll be making a direct impact on the communities you care about the most. You’ll be changing the world!
But you might be wondering, how does public policy change the world? Good question! Here are a few direct ways that public policy plays a part in influencing the world around you.
- Public policy has a large influence on affordable housing.
- Public policy has a large influence on funding for education.
- Public policy has a large influence on the types of energy communities decide to invest in.
- Public policy has a large influence on the redevelopment of urban areas.
Public policy jobs help change the world and can have a huge influence on the communities they work for.
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