The Career Doctor™

by Dr. Jacqueline Hornor Plumez

Looking for a first job? Thinking of changing careers? Facing a lay-off? The Career Doctor™ is a Larchmont psychologist specializing in career counseling. If you'd like to ask a question of your own, use the anonymous form, and she might answer you here. Read more about the Career Doctor here. Contact information is here.

JOBS IN NON-PROFITS AND GOVERNMENT

Dear Career Doctor:

What kinds of careers can you get into with a masters in public administration? How useful is this degree if you want to break into the non-profit sector? Does this degree give you the credentials necessary to be in public office?

K

Dear K:

For many years a Masters in Public Administration (MPA) was the standard degree for anyone wanting to be a government or non-profit manager. These days, a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) is equally, if not more desirable.

If you don't have any non-profit work history, an MPA might be a good way to break in, especially if you go to a school that helps you get good summer internships. But if you have government or non-profit work experience, an MBA may be an even better degree. That's because these days donors are requiring greater accountability, in other words they are demanding that organizations be more businesslike and show effective use of funds. So, many foundations and non-profits prefer an MBA degree, as long as you have taken an elective such as nonprofit accounting (one of the few management areas where there are substantive differences with the for-profit world).

As for running for public office, there are doctors, lawyers, MBA's and even community organizers who are doing that. Their degrees seem to count far less than a record of achievement and dedication. But I could say the same about getting a job in a non-profit.

The Career Doctor

 

 

The Career Doctor™ is Larchmont psychologist and career counselor, Dr. Jacqueline Hornor Plumez.

Her office is at 90 Beechtree Drive in Larchmont, 914-834-1982.

For more information go to www.jacquelineplumez.com.

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