Public administration is a widespread discipline that focuses on providing service to the public via management, analysis of public issues, providing solutions to public issues, and providing support to communities and societies as a whole.

Sounds a lot like becoming a public servant for the government, doesn’t it? And many people pursuing public do choose to go that route.

But the government isn’t the only place you can use your degree or experience in public administration to do good and make change! Check out these 5 public administration jobs that work outside of the government and governmental agencies.

1. Education Positions

Public administration requires you to organize and manage multiple groups of people, problem solve, work closely with governmental entities (even if you yourself don’t work for the government itself!). 

If you’re interested in education, then you can use all of those skills within that field. Consider becoming a superintendent of schools or even a principal or vice principal.

If working for public schools is too close to the government for you, try working in private schools or private universities.

2. Environmental Management

Norwich University has one of the leading master’s programs in public administration with their NU MPA degree. They stress the importance of environmental management positions for those interested in public administration.

These jobs require you to work with:

• Local communities
• Non-profits
• Environmental activists
• Governmental agencies

You could work for one of those non-profits, for environmentalist groups, or as a consultant in order to protect the public interest in maintaining a healthy environment.

3. Healthcare Management

Healthcare management would have you working in healthcare facilities like hospitals or agencies. You would be responsible for making sure things run smoothly between all departments.

You’ll also ensure that you’re following laws and proper protocols. You may even help to follow and craft new healthcare policy proposals.

4. Communications

Do your strengths lie in writing, reporting, and communicating with others? Combine those skills with your public administration education and work as a communications specialist.

You could work for non-profits, certain agencies, and any organization that needs to communicate with the public. You could be responsible for:

• Giving interviews on the news
• Putting out public announcements
• Writing press releases
• Giving/writing speeches

Your responsibilities will vary based on your experience and who you work for.

5. Public Administration Consulting

This public administration job is a sort of in-between of government vs non-government. You’d work as a consultant, likely with a consulting agency. You’d be a “go-between” between governmental agencies and other organizations.

This helps people be clear about their goals/actions, what they need to do to make change, and makes things more efficient for both the public and the relevant agencies.

Public Administration Jobs Transcend the Government

Public administration jobs are diverse because the discipline itself is as well. You need communication, analytical, and social skills to excel in any public administration career, all of which can be applied to jobs ranging from environmental protection to running an elementary school!

Still need to get your degree, but not sure how you’ll afford your dream? Read this article to learn how you can finance your education and get the public administration job you’ve been dreaming of!