MPA vs. MPP: A Distinction Without a Difference?

Abstract

Despite several scholarly inquiries, the question of whether there are critical differences between Masters of Public Administration (MPA) and Masters of Public Policy (MPP) programs continues in the minds of prospective students, potential employers, and university officials. Building on previous inquiries into this issue, we compare the core course content of selected MPA and MPP programs, and expand the study by investigating whether there is a correlation between the academic backgrounds of program faculty and the emphases in core curricula. We also surveyed departments or schools that have both MPA and MPP programs in order to determine the reasons for offering both programs and related issues — it was assumed that schools and departments offering both programs would have vetted program goals and content issues. Our study suggests that MPA and MPP program curricula differ. However, such differences seem more likely to be associated with faculty discipline differences than with a focus on providing graduates the core competencies required for job and career options/opportunities in these fields.

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