Careers in public service require specific skills and experience to work at nonprofit organizations, the government or schools. Individuals with a degree or certified training may start a pubic service career that aligns with their experience and goals. Institutions of higher education such as the Harvard Kennedy School of Government offer masters' and doctorate courses in public service as part of their schools of government.
Professional education toward a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree focuses on government and management. Course content includes administration and processes and the political and social roles of the public service sector.
A Master in Public Administration is designed as a two-year program with four semesters of courses. Some institutions such as the University of North Carolina offer dual-degree programs for an MPA and related work (such as a Master of Social Work or "MSW").