I have heard that MPA programs are geared towards students who already have some work experience after their ba or bs degree. Why is that the case and should a student with, say, a poly sci degree not go straight for a MPA degree then?
You could go right after grad school, but the coursework for MPA degrees is geared toward professionals who are working in the public/non-profit sector. That’s the reason the degree was created. The MPA Program is generally less theoretical than political science MA/PHd programs. For example, in an MPA program you generally won’t be required to do a thesis. Instead of a thesis, you have a capstone project your final year where you work on solving some issue with a government agency. MPA programs were created specifically f
You can go right into some MPP or MPA programs. Some are intended for mid career professionals but others are open to all. There are some programs that have a leadership track and it makes sense that you would ideally have work experience if you expect someone to hire you for leadership positions.
Thanks- That makes sense.