Working in public administration can be highly rewarding — but what if you are ready to take your career to the next level and lead true transformative change? If you already have a master’s degree in public administration or a related field, it could be time to pursue a Doctor of Public Administration (DPA). 

So, why get a doctorate in public administration? Explore the factors to consider below.  

What a Doctor of Public Administration Is Designed to Do

First, it is essential to understand what a DPA entails and why public administration is important. 

A DPA is an advanced degree designed to prepare individuals in public administration for senior roles in both the public and nonprofit sector — empowering them to bridge academic theory and governance challenges to become what we at Keiser University like to call “pracademics” (practitioners and academics). 

Bridging Academic Theory and Governance Challenges

More specifically, the curriculum of a DPA effectively connects theory with hands-on application, readying students for public service and leadership roles such as: 

  • City manager 
  • Policy advisor 
  • Nonprofit executive 

Degree for Practitioner-Scholars

Compared to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Administration, for example, a DPA is a more practical degree that focuses on not just theory and research but also how they can be applied to solve real-world problems in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. 

Market Realities — Is This the Right Time?

Why choose public administration for your doctoral degree? Is now even an optimal time to pursue a terminal degree? 

When pondering a return to school for any type of specialized degree, it is wise to consider the current landscape of the field, including the job market and potential for future demand. 

Growing Demand for Specialized Public Sector Leaders 

There are numerous reasons why public administration is important and why demand for public administration specialists is expected to grow in the coming years. For one, public policy has become increasingly complex and nuanced, especially in regard to issues surrounding compliance and service delivery. 

Meanwhile, as the population inevitably continues to grow, there remains a push for more efficient and tech-driven government operations to keep everything running smoothly.

Accessibility, Flexibility and Funding

 Online delivery has become routine in graduate education. In fall 2022, about 39% of graduate students were enrolled exclusively in distance education courses, and another 15% took some distance education courses.  This is a game-changer for working professionals who may otherwise not have time to complete a “traditional” program on-campus. 

The public sector has also experienced substantial funding increases in recent years — particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and in an effort to tackle issues surrounding climate change, public health and infrastructure. In terms of funding your own education, various financial aid and scholarship options are available to qualifying applicants.

Wave of Retirements Within the Federal Workforce

As the federal workforce sees a historic wave of retirements, the demand for knowledgeable, skilled public administration leaders is likely to increase.  Federal retirements spiked in FY2025: The Washington Post reported nearly 105,000 regular retirements during the fiscal year ending in September 2025, alongside a surge in buyouts. 

Signs You Are at the Right Career Stage for a DPA

Why get a doctorate in public administration, especially if you are already working and making a difference in the field? Here are a few potential reasons to consider leveling up your education:  

You Are Moving Toward Executive or System-Level Leadership

If you already find yourself in a mid- to senior-level role, then a DPA could help you build the more advanced knowledge of public policies, policy regulation and community development needed to differentiate yourself and pursue executive- or system-level leadership in the field. 

Desire to Influence Policy and Organizational Strategy at Scale

Additionally, a DPA could equip you for roles that present the opportunity to influence policy and organizational strategy at scale. Whether you are passionate about leadership in government, nonprofit organizations or public policy, you can apply what you learn in a DPA program to solve some of the most complex public administration challenges. 

You Want to Apply Research Directly to Practice

As opposed to a PhD, which focuses on formulating new theories to solve public administration problems, a DPA empowers you to bridge theory and practice. This way, you can use existing research and theory to drive meaningful change in the public services realm.  

You Have Outgrown the MPA or MBA

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Public Administration (MPA) may have served you well up until this point — but if you are beginning to notice that your graduate degree alone is no longer differentiating you for promotions, you might begin to consider a DPA. 

Pros and Cons for Professionals Considering the DPA

Still not sure whether a DPA is right for you? Take some time to weigh the potential pros and cons of earning this type of degree before you reach your final decision. 

Advantages of Pursuing a DPA — Why Choose Public Administration?

Competitive Edge in an Increasingly Credentialed Workforce 

Acquiring a terminal degree like a DPA could give you an advantage over others in the workforce who may only hold an MPA or MBA. As the field becomes increasingly credentialed, staying a step ahead of your workforce competition could help set you apart when it comes time to apply for leadership and executive roles. 

High ROI in Key Public and Government Sectors

While possessing a DPA alone does not necessarily guarantee you an executive- or systems-level leadership role in the field, it can help you become a more competitive candidate. Plus, because these roles tend to be higher paying, this means you could earn a significant return on your investment (ROI) with a DPA. 

Leadership Credibility

With a curriculum centered on the skills and knowledge needed to lead public and nonprofit organizations through advanced theories and ethical practices, a DPA can prepare professionals for the challenges and opportunities of leadership roles in public services, government and beyond. 

Flexible Program Models

Many DPA programs are now offered in online or hybrid formats, allowing working professionals to pursue a terminal degree without putting other aspects of their lives on hold. 

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

On the other hand, there are a couple of possible downsides to keep in mind if you are thinking about getting your DPA. 

High Tuition Costs May Not Yield Proportional Salary Growth

Depending on the specific role you are pursuing, there is a chance that the cost of completing a DPA program could outweigh any increase in earnings potential that comes along with it. Therefore, it is crucial to research potential salary figures for the role you are pursuing before you decide to earn your DPA. 

DPA May Exceed Job Requirements

In certain scenarios, having your DPA may simply make you appear overqualified for some public administration roles. This is why, in general, a DPA is the best choice for professionals who are striving toward executive- or systems-level leadership roles. 

Time and Energy Cost

Beyond tuition, another major consideration when deciding whether now is the right time for a DPA is the time and energy commitment. 

Most Doctor of Public Administration programs are designed for working professionals, but they are still intensive. For example, Keiser University’s DPA degree program typically estimates 24–36 months to completion, delivered in accelerated 8-week terms. The program, while providing flexibility, consists of weekly workloads and a residency requirement before an applied doctoral project that can be time consuming for working professionals.

Strategic Action Plan — Deciding If the Time Is Right

As you come to a conclusion regarding whether now is the ideal time to pursue your DPA, here are a few last-minute considerations:  

Define Your “Why”

Start by pinpointing why you would pursue a DPA. Are you passionate about solving public policy challenges using previous research and theory? Are you ready to move into an executive leadership role? Keeping your “why” at the forefront can help determine your next best steps. 

Evaluate Return on Investment

Consider, too, the potential return on your investment in a DPA program. This means dedicating time to research salary projections for the role(s) you are most interested in. 

Verify Accreditation and Program Quality

Remember that not all DPA programs are of equal quality. As you explore your options, be sure that any program you are considering is from an accredited institution, which means the institution has met certain standards of quality. Keiser University, for instance, is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Prioritize Programs Designed for Working Professionals

Finally, if you decide to go for your DPA, choose a program that is flexible with your busy schedule. This may include finding a program that is offered online (or in a hybrid format) for added accessibility and convenience as you juggle against other responsibilities. 

When a DPA May Not Be the Right Move (Yet)

Just as knowing when a DPA may suit you is important, it is also essential to understand when a DPA simply might not be your best move — at least at this point in your career. 

Early-Career Professionals Still Building Experience

If you are still relatively early in your career, it may be better to wait and pursue a DPA after you have gained significant experience. This is especially true if an undergraduate degree marks your highest completed level of education. In such cases, you might want to earn a master’s in public administration first. 

Individuals Seeking Tenure-Track Academic Careers

 A DPA may be less commonly associated with traditional research-intensive, tenure-track pathways compared to a PhD. However, many DPA graduates do hold full-time, tenured, and tenure-track faculty positions in applied, professional, and practice-oriented academic programs. 

Professionals Whose Career Advancement Does Not Require a Terminal Degree

In some cases, a DPA or other terminal degree simply is not a requirement to reach your long-term career goals. If you are not pursuing an executive-level leadership role, then an MPA may prove sufficient for meeting your professional goals. 

Learn More About a DPA at Keiser University

If you are seeking an accredited institution with an DPA degree program available in a convenient online format, look no further than Keiser University. Our Doctor of Public Administration program covers essential coursework in public policy analysis, ethical leadership, public sector budgeting, change management and more to prepare you for future leadership roles where you can make a difference. 

Get in touch with a graduate admissions advisor to learn more or start your application today.