"Back To the Future"

Like Michael J. Fox in the classic series of movies about time travel, the public administration community is currently engaged in a broad discussion about the future of MPA programs. The following two articles explore the understanding of excellence in the MPA program and public administration as a career (http://www.naspaa.org/JPAEMessenger/Article/Vol15No2-SP2009/Henry-et-al.pdf and http://www.naspaa.org/JPAEMessenger/Article/Vol15No2-SP2009/Raffel.pdf). This conversation, like the movies, is really about “Back to the Future.”

“Excellence” in the future of MPA programs can be found in the roots of public administration. Like the authors of the ASPA report and Jeff Raffel, incoming president of NASPAA, the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs MPA program is committed to educating excellent professional administrators who are capable of administering government, in the broadest meaning of the term, at all levels locally, nationally, and internationally.

What do you think? Weigh in and join the discussion, are we headed “Back to the Future,” and should that be our touchstone for excellence?

What's In It For Me?: The Benefit of Getting a Masters in Public Administration

In this day and time, with so much uncertainly in the business world and with the economy, there is one thing that, now more than ever, is certain...the importance of government and public administration. With increased government involvement: the bailouts, the stimulus package, and new public initiatives and programs; now more than ever there is a demand for public administrators.

In addition, pursing a Masters degree in Public Administration, at Texas Southern University(TSU), in comparison to Masters degrees at other institutions, is affordable; without the necessity of having to take out numerous high cost loans. TSU is centrally located in the heart of Houston, with an accredited MPA program that is designed to maximize your time in the program, and provide you with superior skills and expertise in the various areas of public administration.

National Association of Schools of Public Affairs & Administration (NASPAA) on MPA/MPP Degrees

THE MPA/MPP DEGREES

Are you looking for a stimulating and challenging career? Do you want to lead, manage or run things? Do you want to work in a nonprofit, at any level of government, in an international organization, or maybe job hop among them and other career sectors like the environment, education, health or homeland security? If so, the MPA/MPP is the essential degree for you! Still not convinced? Keep reading to learn why the MPA/MPP degree is right for your career in professional public service.

THE ESSENTIAL DEGREE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Over the past 50 years, the Master of Public Administration (MPA) and the Master of Public Policy (MPP) have emerged as vital professional degrees in the public service field. Numerous policymakers, manager and leaders in the United States and internationally have earned these degrees to help launch their successful careers. There are over 260 MPA/MPP schools in the U.S. No matter the specific areas of concern, students can find many choices to consider among these professional degrees. Many schools offer full-time and part-time degree programs, executive MPA programs, online courses where degree requirements may vary depending on professional experience.