For some students, an MBA in Government or Public Sector Management can be a very rewarding choice. After all, governments and other public sector organizations function differently from commercial businesses, and as such, managers can require a more specialized understanding when running them.
MBA students interested in government or public sector work can explore programs that offer specialized curricula or internships in public agencies. While very few business schools offer specialized MBAs in Public Sector Management or Government, those seeking a more nuanced understanding of these organizations might consider pairing their MBA with a Master of Public Administration (MPA) or a Master of Public Policy (MPP) in a dual-degree program. This combination can provide a robust foundation in both business acumen and public sector dynamics, making graduates highly attractive candidates for leadership roles in government and public institutions.
Depending on their goals, other students might find that one of the best MBA programs in nonprofit management is a good fit. These programs often share similar values and skills with public sector management, focusing on mission-driven leadership and the complexities of managing organizations that aim to serve the public good.
Top MBA programs for Public Sector Management often include courses in public finance, policy analysis, and organizational behavior specific to government and nonprofit sectors. Additionally, these programs may offer unique opportunities for networking with public sector professionals, providing valuable insights and career connections.
Moreover, some business schools have established partnerships with government agencies and nonprofit organizations, allowing students to gain hands-on experience through internships and capstone projects. This practical exposure is invaluable, as it helps students apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges in the public sector.
When considering an MBA in Public Sector Management, it is crucial to research the specific offerings of each program to ensure they align with your career aspirations. Look for programs that emphasize leadership in public administration, ethical governance, and strategic management of public resources.
See below for the 10 best MBA programs for Public Sector Management / Government. These programs have been selected based on their specialized curriculum, opportunities for practical experience, and their overall reputation in the field of public sector management.
Although many of the school’s MBA grads go into the consulting and financial services sectors, a small but steady contingent also goes into the government sector each year. Recent recruiters have included the FBI, the National Parks Service, and the New York State Governor’s Office.
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Asia-bound MBA students interested in government should consider NUS, which offers the opportunity for students to pair their MBA with a Master in Public Policy (MPP) degree from NUS’ Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy.
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With electives like “Government, Society, and Sustainable Development," the school’s Public and Nonprofit MBA is a great option for public sector-bound students. And the “Public and Nonprofit Management Club” is a great networking resource.
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The school’s MBA concentration in the Public Sector is designed for both those who want to go into government roles and those who will work in highly-regulated industries like mining and financial services. Recent grads have been recruited by public agencies like Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs and the government of Ontario.
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Oxford’s 1+1 MBA program offers students the chance to pair their MBA with a Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree. A small but steady stream of Oxford MBA grads go into government roles, all over the world.
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Although the school does not offer a concentration in government, it does offer a dual-degree MBA/MPP as well as a joint Master of Science in Foreign Service. In recent years, the FBI has been a top recruiter of MBAs at the school. In 2016, Georgetown announced that it would begin offering an MA in International Business and Policy.
View School ProfileThe school's MBA concentration in “Government Contracts” and its Washington, DC location mean that many students go into government roles, in organizations like the US Environmental Protection agency and the Department of Veterans Affairs. In recent years, upwards of 12 percent of the MBA grads went into government roles.
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The school’s unique MBA/MA in Government dual-degree program promises to bridge the gap between the separation between the public and private sectors. In this program, students complete the MA at the Johns Hopkins’ School of Arts and Sciences, and the MBA classes at Carey. The school’s Baltimore location—not far from Washington, DC—makes networking with government agencies easier.
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Alberta students looking to prepare for careers in the public sector or nonprofit organizations can choose to pursue the school's specialization in “Public Policy & Management.” The school, through its executive education department, has a long-standing partnership with the Government of Alberta.
View School ProfileIn recent years, Mason grads have been snapped up by a range of government agencies and departments, including the National Park Service, the US Department of State, and the Environmental Protection Agency.
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FIND MBA Updates Top 10 Lists by Specialization for 2020
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