In the face of complex and pressing societal challenges, the United States requires innovative solutions that can address the needs of all citizens. Policymakers drive progress in these areas and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our communities, nation and world.
The rigorous training in policy analysis, economic theory and research methods provided by a Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree prepares graduates for roles in government and nonprofit organizations, as well as in the private sector and academia. This article explores the diverse career opportunities available to MPP graduates in these sectors, including typical job duties and average annual salary.
Why earn an MPP?
An MPP prepares graduates for rewarding, impactful careers that shape public policy in the private, public and nonprofit sectors. While many positions in public policy require only a bachelor’s degree, a graduate degree helps individuals stand out from their peers and is often a crucial factor to advancing into leadership roles. In 2021, 51% of employees in public policy and social services held an advanced degree, versus 38% in all fields.
The demand for public policy professionals is generally strong, given the ongoing need for policy analysis and development in various sectors.
Master’s in public policy careers and salaries
| Top 10 highest-paying MPP jobs | |
|---|---|
| Research analyst | $61,784 |
| Public policy analyst | $66,464 |
| Technical writer | $66,604 |
| Budget analyst | $66,778 |
| Public affairs specialist | $69,571 |
| Economic analyst | $73,399 |
| Legislative affairs director | $83,068 |
| Advocacy director | $84,281 |
| University professor | $92,393 |
| Government affairs director | $107,773 |
Source: Payscale, 2024
MPP graduates are afforded a diverse range of career prospects. Note that opportunities and salary expectations can vary based on geographic location, industry demand and other factors. Here are just some of the potential careers that MPP graduates may consider:
Government
Legislative assistant
Annual Salary: $44,651
Legislative assistants support lawmakers in policy development through a variety of tasks. For instance, they may conduct in-depth research on policy issues, analyze data and reports and draft and review legislative proposals. They prepare briefing materials, memos and reports to keep legislators informed on strategies and amendments they’re developing.
Legislative assistants may also handle media relations by drafting press releases and speeches, and they sometimes take on administrative duties like scheduling or maintaining records of legislative activity.
City planner
Annual Salary: $59,128
City planners develop initiatives for public land use, aiming to accommodate growth and foster community. By analyzing data on economic, social and environmental issues, they make informed decisions about land use and community development.
These professionals collaborate with public officials, developers and the community to ensure that projects align with zoning regulations, sustainability goals and community needs. City planners also conduct field investigations, surveys and public hearings to gather information and feedback from residents and stakeholders.
Public policy analyst
Annual Salary: $66,464
Public policy analysts conduct research and evaluate data in the interest of improving policies and programs. They gather and analyze data on economic trends, social conditions, regulatory impact and more to assess the effectiveness of existing policies. They then propose evidence-based recommendations for new initiatives or improvements to those currently in place. Public policy analysts may also be responsible for creating detailed reports, policy briefs and presentations that communicate their findings to policymakers, stakeholders and the public.
Budget analyst
Annual Salary: $66,778
Budget analysts examine, develop and oversee budget proposals, financial reports, forecasts and other data to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and appropriately. By reviewing financial requests and proposals from various departments, budget analysts gain a big-picture understanding of the needs of various parties and provide fiscally responsible recommendations to optimize spending.
Public affairs specialist
Annual Salary: $69,571
Public affairs specialists manage communication between an organization and the public. They craft press releases, prepare speeches and develop media content to convey the organization’s achievements and positions in order to maintain a positive image. Public affairs specialists also respond to media inquiries, coordinate interviews and organize press conferences.
By effectively managing communication efforts, public affairs specialists help organizations and government agencies navigate public scrutiny, foster trust and promote their initiatives and goals.
Nonprofit organizations
Community outreach coordinator
Annual Salary: $48,574
Community outreach coordinators develop and implement programs to promote community engagement, build relationships and encourage participation in local initiatives. They organize events, workshops and informational sessions to raise awareness about their organization’s goals, services and resources.
These coordinators assess community needs through surveys and feedback, ensuring that their efforts align with local priorities and interests. Serving as a liaison between an organization and the communities it serves, outreach coordinators play a crucial role in fostering partnerships that serve the needs of the public.
Program manager
Annual Salary: $60,193
Program managers oversee the planning, implementation and evaluation of policy-related programs and initiatives. They coordinate with government agencies, nonprofit organizations and community groups to ensure that programs align with strategic goals and address relevant public issues. This role involves developing project plans, setting goals, managing budgets and tracking progress to ensure successful outcomes.
Research analyst
Annual Salary: $61,784
Research analysts conduct in-depth research to inform policy development. Through this research, they are able to assess the effectiveness of existing policies and identify areas for improvement. Research analysts typically prepare reports, briefs and presentations that summarize their findings and provide actionable recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders.
In addition to data analysis, research analysts may collaborate with other researchers, policymakers and advocacy groups in order to holistically address complex social issues and contribute to evidence-based policy solutions.
Advocacy director
Annual Salary: $84,281
Advocacy directors are responsible for promoting specific policy initiatives on their organization’s behalf. Advocacy directors typically conduct research, craft policy positions and coordinate campaigns to raise awareness and garner support for legislative changes or public initiatives.
Private sector
Economic analyst
Annual Salary: $73,399
Economic analysts research trends in economic data — including employment statistics, inflation rates and consumer behavior — to assess the economic environment and predict future developments. Using models and forecasts, economic analysts help organizations understand the potential impact of policy on various industries, markets and investments.
Regulatory affairs specialist
Annual Salary: $74,104
Regulatory affairs specialists are responsible for ensuring organizations comply with the laws and guidelines governing their industry. They interpret and apply regulatory requirements to products, services and processes, particularly in sectors with complicated compliance issues such as health care, pharmaceuticals and environmental management. Important job functions for regulatory affairs specialists include preparing and submitting vital regulatory documents, such as applications for product approvals, and staying up to date on changes in regulations and industry standards.
Government affairs director
Annual Salary: $107,773
Government affairs directors make an impact on public policy through strategic advocacy, lobbying efforts, grassroots campaigns and collaboration with government entities. They engage with legislators, regulatory agencies and other governmental bodies to ensure that the organization’s interests are represented in policy development. Government affairs directors may monitor legislative changes, analyze proposed regulations and prepare policy briefs to inform decision-makers about the organization’s positions and priorities.
Academia and research
Research associate
Annual Salary: $59,849
Research associates collect, analyze and interpret data to support public policy projects in academia. By preparing reports, presentations and summaries of their findings, these researchers contribute to the development of important policy decisions and academic research.
Technical writer
Annual Salary: $66,604
A technical writer in the public policy field is responsible for communicating complex policy information to various audiences in a clear and concise manner. They produce a variety of content that outlines regulations, procedures and program details, which is written with accessibility and diverse readership in mind.
In addition to crafting documents, technical writers often edit and review content for clarity and compliance with organizational standards. They may also develop training materials and resources to help stakeholders understand policy implications and implementation strategies.
University professor
Annual Salary: $92,393
Public policy professors mentor students in various aspects of policy analysis, development and implementation. They design and teach courses on topics such as public administration, governance, policy evaluation and research methods. By engaging students through lectures, discussions and hands-on projects, professors foster critical thinking and analytical skills essential to careers in public policy.
In addition to teaching, many professors conduct original research that contributes to the field or work in outside industries to inform public policy decisions.
What skills will I gain in an MPP program?
A public policy master’s degree equips you with a diverse and career-ready skill set. You’ll develop your writing skills, hone your problem-solving abilities and gain a deep understanding of policy development and implementation. Your coursework should cover the fundamentals of research, including data collection, analysis and reporting, in addition to the financial and economic principles that are crucial to budget assessment. Elective classes may allow you to build specialized knowledge, while experienced instructors and guest speakers can offer insight into real-world challenges of politics, public outreach and policy implementation. In addition, long-term projects and group-oriented assignments will enhance your skills in key areas such as leadership, project management and peer networking.
Why choose SMU’s Master of Public Policy?
SMU’s Master of Public Policy (M.P.P.) program provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of public policy, including economics, ethics, leadership and finance. The coursework focuses on developing critical skills in policy analysis, quantitative methods and effective communication, as well as practical skills such as policy implementation and evaluation. Students can opt for electives in sustainability, urban development, education policy or international trade policy to specialize their education in the areas that matter most to them.
Career support at SMU includes dedicated services, such as career counseling, resume workshops and internship placement assistance. Graduates of the program have a strong track record of securing employment in a variety of sectors. Our program’s active network of advisors, partners and alumni offers mentorship and connections to job opportunities, further enhancing the professional development of our students.
Learn to make meaningful change with the SMU M.P.P.
SMU’s Master of Public Policy program equips aspiring leaders with the skills to drive meaningful change through policy. Our curriculum, which can be tailored to your interests, is designed to enhance your strategic, technical and interpersonal skills. You’ll collaborate with peers, gain insight from policy professionals and benefit from the expertise of our distinguished faculty.
A nationally ranked private university near the heart of Dallas, SMU is a distinguished center for global research and teaching. SMU’s diverse, high-achieving students come from the U.S. and around the world to take advantage of the University’s small classes, innovation, leadership development and career opportunities that can provide a launch pad for global impact.
Download a brochure to learn more about the program, or start your application today.
Request information
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