NASPAA Homepage
NASPAA For Students For Principal Reps and Faculty Accreditation NASPAA Initiatives
For Students
  
 find a graduate school

  
 MPA/MPP Alumni profiles
  
 careers & resources
  
 media: facebook, youtube 
  
 faq

Home > For Students > Career & Resources

Why Should You Put the MPA Or MPP After Your Name?


Because it will help with your job search, career goals & networking. A Master's degree is a professional designation that allows you to place the degree behind your name in a way similar to doctors, lawyers, MBA's, other Master’s and PhD candidates. 

When others see the letters they’ll know your academic credentials straight away. 


FAQ

WHY SHOULD I DO THIS? 
The US Census Bureau reports that only 6.7% of Americans have a Master’s degree, so your Master’s places you in the elite of American education. There is every reason why others should know about your accomplishment and what it means.

HOW CAN PUTTING MY DEGREE AFTER MY NAME HELP?
When other professionals—including potential employers—see the letters, they immediately know you have succeeded into one of the highest ranks of academia. This means more respect, greater chance for responsibility and ultimately more career rewards. Also, if people notice the degree, it can lead to conversation about the MPA/MPP and provide a means for networking. Lastly, any feature that makes you stand out, helps others remember you. 

WHAT EXACTLY DO I DO WITH THE LETTERS?
Just add the letters of your degree (MPA, MPP, etc.) after your name. 
--Tania Gonzales, MPP -- Jack Johnson, MPA


IN WHAT SITUATIONS SHOULD I ADD THEM? 
- On your CV or resume
- On your business card
- After your signature
- On letterhead
- In emails


WHAT IF I HAVEN'T GRADUATED? CAN I DO IT STILL PLACE THE LETTERS?
Yes. Simply put the year you are graduating after the letters: MPP ‘08 



 

© National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration
1029 Vermont Avenue, NW, Suite 1100, Washington, DC 20005
Phone: 202.628.8965   Fax: 202.626.4978  
Email NASPAA
www.naspaa.org