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U.S. Department of State, Foreign Service Specialists

A Foreign Service Specialist (FSS) is a member of the U.S. Department of State who promotes American interests around the globe. Each FSS applies his or her unique professional and educational experiences while completing technical and administrative functions.

Like their Foreign Service Officer (FSO) counterparts, FSS applicants undergo rigorous screening before joining the U.S. Department of State. However, the hiring process for FSO and FSS applicants is not identical. FSO applicants must pass a written Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT). No such written test is administered to an FSS applicant. Rather, these individuals complete an oral assessment. Both an FSO and an FSS must be granted medical and security clearance and be U.S. citizens.

FSS Specializations

An FSS is not a generalist. These government employees bring specific training and expertise to the posts they hold. Unlike an FSO, an FSS typically remains in the same functional area throughout his or her government tenure. FSS departments include Administration, Construction Engineering, Facility Management, Information Technology, International Information and English Language Programs, Medical and Health, Office Management and Law Enforcement and Security.

Administration: This department consists of three distinct positions: General Services Officer (GSO), Financial Management Officer (FMO) and Human Resources Officer (HMO). Each officer fulfills different organizational functions. A GSO manages the resources at a diplomatic post, whereas an HMO manages the post’s employees. The role of a FMO is to oversee and administer financial aspects of international government facilities.

Construction Engineering: This specialization has grown in recent years. A Construction Engineer (CE) monitors the construction of diplomatic facilities and consular posts, ensuring that construction projects are completed within budget and in adherence to safety regulations.

Facility Management: A Facility Manger (FM) maintains U.S. government buildings abroad.

Information Technology: Technological advancements impact the duties of Information Technology employees. Information Management Specialists (IMS), Information Management Technical Specialists-Radio (IMST-Radio) and an Information Management Technical Specialist-Unified Communications (IMTS-Unified Communications) manage technological infrastructure and install, repair and maintain software and hardware systems.

International Information and English Language Programs: This department has two job functions: English Language Officer (ELO) and Information Resource Officer (IRO). An ELO can have an overseas or domestic assignment. An overseas ELO manages English teaching activities sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. Those stationed in Washington, D.C. provide administrative and consultative assistance to institutions and programs abroad. The work of an IRO helps guide individuals working within Information Resource Centers at U.S. Embassies.

Medical and Health: This specialization is staffed by medical personnel who provide support and assistance to U.S. Embassy and Consulate workers and their families. There are four roles within this department: Regional Medical Officer (RMO), Regional Medical Officer/Psychiatrist (RMO/P), Foreign Service Medical Providers (FSMP) and Regional Medical Laboratory Scientist (RMLS). Medical employees are constantly on duty.

Office Management: An Office Management Specialist (OMS) provides administrative support to U.S. facilities. Their responsibilities include travel arrangements, secretarial functions and other general office duties.

Law Enforcement and Security: Due to recent events, the responsibilities of diplomatic security officers have expanded. Working within this department are Diplomatic Couriers (DC), Diplomatic Security Special Agents (DSSA), Security Technical Specialists (STT) and Security Engineering Officers (SEO). Through their technical expertise, these specialists protect classified information and guard against cyber espionage.

Characteristics of an FSS

FSS positions are held by individuals with unique skillsets and expertise. Most of these specialists hold advanced degrees and some are proficient in multiple languages. A successful FSS is amenable to worldwide travel and frequent change. Their posts typically change every two to three years and can be in potentially dangerous areas.

An FSS must demonstrate sound judgment and maintain his or her composure in high pressure situations. The salary of an FSS depends on the individual’s level of education and relevant work experience.

Changes Within the Specialties

Global terrorism and technical innovation have altered the FSS role. Current events necessitate the relocation and reconstruction of certain diplomatic facilities. Congress has approved additional funding for “security-driven construction.” Construction Engineers handle these projects. The Information Technology specialization is affected by an increased need for cyber security. Additionally, Human Resources Officers must now be prepared to execute any necessary measures to safely evacuate embassy employees and their families.

FSS positions are highly coveted and the U.S. Department of State places great emphasis on work experience and higher education when making FSS hiring decisions.

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Master of Pub Admin vs. Master of Pub Affairs

Does the idea of organizing and managing interest you? Do you like public organizations like non-profits or schools?

Then you may want to look into a public affairs degree. To succeed in these fields, you need strong organizational skills, along with advanced communication abilities.

What are the differences between similar public affairs and public administration degrees? We’re showing you in the article below.

What Is a Master’s in Public Affairs?

When you want to work in government or hold management positions in private companies, you can look into a Master’s of public affairs. It’s essentially a high-level communication degree with more of a business focus.

For most high-paying or high-position jobs, you’ll need a master’s, on top of a relevant bachelor.

There are as many specializations in master’s programs as there are job opportunities. Your interest area will help you decide which program is right for you.

Do you want to work for an environmental organization? You can find a degree that focuses on natural resources. Like education but don’t want to be a teacher? There are degree tracks for school organization professionals.

The degree itself focuses on communications, ethics, law, and how public policy plays a role in everyday life. A large part of any public affairs job involves putting out fires from any crises or issues that arise.

Who Is a Master’s of Public Affairs Right For?

Like any career, there are certain people that will succeed easily and those that should choose another profession. For this master’s, you need to be high in emotional intelligence and have great people skills.

You must be very organized and not afraid of taking on a leadership role. You need a clear view on business or company ethics and a history of sticking true to your values.

A working knowledge of economics doesn’t hurt either, depending on your specialization.

Motivating people, analyzing and addressing risks is important too. Writing skills and communication are emphasized, since some professionals may be in charge of press releases or official statements.

Jobs with a Public Affairs Degree

When you get a degree in Public Affairs, you have a lot of options. One of the most lucrative ones is lobbying politicians.

Lobbyists make a lot of money if they pick the right issue or company. But, it’s a profession wrought with corruption. As long as you feel comfortable sticking to your guns and your values, you’ll be fine.

Communications positions, policy writing and analyzing, along with administrative government roles are on the table as well.

Get a more comprehensive list of careers here.

The Other Public: Master’s of Public Administration

At first glance, these degrees can appear to be identical, but they’re not. Similar, yes, but identical, no.

A Master’s in Public Administration is more of a management degree than a communications degree. People with these degrees have (usually) higher authority positions, like Mayor or City Manager.

What Is a Master’s of Public Administration?

Think of this degree as more of business management than business communication. You’ll look at things like providing services, implementing policies, and evaluating existing ones.

People with Public Admin degrees often work alongside those with a Master’s in Public Affairs.

The Affairs professional will create the policies or find the need for them, while the administrator creates ways to carry them out.

Both are important and it depends on the type of person you are. Are you better at helping people carry out programs or dreaming them up? You can’t have one without the other!

Jobs With a Master’s in Public Administration Degree

In today’s market, it’s obvious that you don’t have to have the official and traditional education to hold a position. Look at the President of the United States.

So when you read this list, know that there is some wiggle room and you aren’t contained to the following list.

Federal Employees

If you’ve ever wanted a government job, like managing an office, a la the show Parcs and Rec, you can get this degree.

Other options include more official government jobs, like running or holding political office. City managers, mayors, and other political but non-partisan positions are open to you with this master’s degree under your belt.

Educational Jobs

This job doesn’t qualify you as a teacher, in most states, but it does allow you to work in school management. Roles in school boards and school district offices are often open to those with this degree.

If you’d like a more involved position, like a Principal, then you’re better suited with a Master’s of Education.

Non-Profit Professionals

Many people who want to work in non-profits pursue this degree. It’s complicated to run a business that doesn’t make money and a master’s level education helps a lot.

To see more potential career options, click here.

Getting Started

If you want to start pursuing your Master’s of Public Administration degree, you’ll need to get your bachelor’s first. Officially, there’s no requirement for what bachelor’s you come in with.

But, it’ll help if you pursue something in a relevant field, like education or political science.

The same goes for a degree in Public Affairs. You’ll likely look at the same schools as those with high-level administration programs. As we said, the degrees are similar, but they have subtle differences.

So, treat them as such. If you find a program that’s a public affairs degree but it sounds like a better personal fit for you than a competing public admin degree, don’t cross it off your list.

Both will give you a high-level education and likely open up the same type of jobs. Shop these degree programs based on personal values and interests and you can’t go wrong.

Find Master’s of Public Administration and Public Affairs Degree Programs

If the programs in this article sound right for you, it’s okay to not know which to choose yet. You need to do some more reading about the public affairs degrees programs that different schools offer.

It’s not until you get further into your research that you’ll start figuring out which is a better fit.

To help you along this road, we’ve compiled a list of the best programs, start your research here!

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The Work of an Educational Administrator

Educational administrators help manage our nation’s education system by providing guidance, oversight and support. These administrators work to advance both educational leadership and academic achievement.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics {http://www.bls.gov/}, there were 230,000 educational administrators in 2014. By 2022, this number is expected to grow by 15 percent in the postsecondary sector and by six percent in elementary, middle and high schools.

The various educational institutions at which they work include:

  • Preschools/Daycare Centers

  • Primary and Secondary Schools and School Districts (both public and private)

  • Trade Schools

  • Colleges and Universities

  • Charter Schools

  • Alternative Schools

  • Libraries

  • Museums

  • Corporations

Job Opportunities

Educational administrators develop, amend and implement curriculum, work with teachers, students and parents, write proposals and grant requests, work with school boards, plan and oversee school budgets, manage the operational aspects of the education system, work with human relations departments, hire and supervise educators, devise and enforce disciplinary procedures and analyze and implement federal, state and local regulations.

These tasks are addressed by individuals who hold numerous positions within the field of educational administration. Some of these positions include:

  • Preschool and Daycare Administrators

  • School Principals, Vice Principals and Assistant Principals

  • Private School Deans

  • Superintendents

  • Admissions Directors

  • College and University Presidents

  • Department Heads

  • Chief Academic Officers

  • Elected School Board Members

The individuals who fill these positions work tirelessly to improve our nation’s education system and to keep it competitive. Their invaluable work has wide-reaching impact. A school principal or superintendent’s vision and tone affect an entire community. Through their work, these administrators can bring communities together for the betterment of our nation’s youth.

The breath of an individual’s responsibility may depend on the size of the institution at which they work. Preschool administrators may be a team of one, whereas university department heads are part of a much larger network of employees.

Job Functions and Skillsets

Regardless of an educational administrator’s specific job title, there are certain nonnegotiable skills they all possess. For instance, all educational administrators are expected to have prior teaching experience. This experience is critical as these individuals work closely with teachers, develop and amend curriculum and evaluate and select standardized testing options. Standardized tests and assessments play an increasingly significant role in our students’ educational plan. Administrators and teachers work together to ensure that class lessons align with their state’s standardized tests. Prior teaching experience also helps administrators effectively address the varying needs of a diverse student body and staff.

Strong analytical skills help administrators accurately examine and follow federal, state and local regulations. These skills are also called upon when managing a school district’s budget and preparing annual financial reports.

While the educational administration profession can be laden with paperwork, it also requires significant human interaction. Administrators not only work with teachers, students and parents, they also field questions from school board members, community groups and alumni. Administrators must frequently call upon their problem-solving skills to adequately address the needs of this diverse group.

Educational administrators and teachers are integral to the success of our education system. The impact of their work is not merely theoretical, but rather is experienced each and every day by our nation’s youth.

For more exciting careers in Public Administration click here.

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The Work of a Nonprofit Coordinator

Nonprofit employees enthusiastically support their organization’s cause and work for the benefit of our society. Those employed by nonprofit organizations diligently generate funds to assist individuals in need, support education and the arts and further other altruistic endeavors.

Nonprofit organizations are staffed by a series of coordinators and are led by an executive director. The organization’s size dictates the number of available coordinator positions. In larger nonprofits, office responsibilities are divided among individuals who hold separate and distinct roles, whereas in smaller organizations, individual coordinator tasks are less clear cut. The organization’s mission also influences its staffing requirements.

Nonprofit Coordinator Positions

Whether an organization has one coordinator or 20, the goal is the same: To raise the funds necessary to achieve the organization’s central mission.

Marketing Coordinator: A nonprofit organization only succeeds when its mission is properly publicized. To deliver the organization’s message and raise awareness, marketing coordinators organize special events, develop working relationships with community members and potential donors and create a social media, television and print media presence.

Community Outreach Coordinator: Working together, the community outreach coordinator and marketing coordinator promote the organization on a local level. They contact community foundations and groups as well as identify potential business partnerships. One of the most rewarding aspects of this position is the opportunity to connect with direct beneficiaries of the nonprofit.

Operations Coordinator: An operation’s coordinator has numerous responsibilities, including fundraising, financial management, administrative development, event management and the provision of human resources support.

Finance Coordinator: A nonprofit organization cannot complete its mission without strong fiscal management. The finance coordinator is responsible for managing the nonprofit’s financial plans, which may include a working budget, accurate financial forecasts and projections and other accounting tasks.

Development Coordinator: Like the operations coordinator, the development coordinator’s responsibilities are somewhat amorphous. These coordinators work with their peers and develop strategies that further the organization’s overall goal.

Communications Coordinator: In some nonprofit organizations, one person may be responsible for both communications and marketing, while in others these roles are separated. Communications coordinators primarily develop connections with people who can help the organization succeed. Once these relationships are formed, they must be nurtured and maintained.

Human Resources Coordinator: The job functions of a nonprofit human resources coordinator mirror those of his or her private sector counterparts. These individuals assist with recruiting and hiring, establish employee training programs, handle employment related inquiries, ensure adherence to company policy, help establish a positive work environment and are involved in disciplinary procedures when necessary.

Special Events Coordinator: Nonprofits host special events and secure sponsorships to publicize and raise money for the organization’s mission. The event coordinator’s work is integral to the organization’s success.

Volunteer Coordinator: All nonprofit organizations rely on the help of volunteers, even large, well-established organizations. The volunteer coordinator trains and manages people who have chosen to donate their time and talent.

Skillset of a Nonprofit Coordinator

Successful coordinators work well with others, communicate clearly, pay attention to detail, are self-starters and possess strong leadership capabilities. Nonprofit coordinators generally have private or public sector management experience.

Nonprofit coordinators understand that a 501(c)(3) organization operates differently than a for-profit business. The statutes and regulations that govern the management of a nonprofit must be strictly followed. If they are not, the organization can lose its nonprofit status.

Private sector employees who choose to enter the nonprofit workforce often enroll in advanced education programs. Advanced degrees, such as a Masters in Public Administration, offer nonprofit management courses to supplement students’ practical business knowledge. Those who enroll in these advanced degree programs learn the differences between managing a nonprofit organization and managing a for-profit business.

The most important trait of any nonprofit employee is a strong desire to support their organization’s mission and to help society at large.

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The Job of an Urban or Regional Planner

Urban and regional planners are land use experts who assess a city or community’s needs. Skills amassed through training, education and previous work experience help these planners grow established cities and develop emerging ones.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2014, two out of three urban and regional planners were employed by government agencies. BLS also reports that most have master’s degrees. Six percent growth is projected in this field between 2014 and 2024.

What does an urban planner do?

The work of an urban planner ranges from designing large-scale city plans and layouts to constructing proposals for libraries and other community spaces. Planners often meet with local government officials and developers to discuss the practicality and efficacy of city improvement plans.

Urban and regional planners perform research to determine the value of proposed projects. Before any new project is undertaken, environmental regulations and impact, economic ramifications, historic preservation parameters, zoning laws and the likelihood of receiving government and community buy in must all be considered. Additionally, an area’s long and short-term goals are reviewed.

Not all planners perform the same type of work. Some specialize in topics such as economic improvement, zoning analysis, transportation, landscape or environmental design. Additionally, some focus on specific project aspects, while others follow projects through their implementation. Despite their differing approaches, all urban and regional planners share a desire to help their subject cities or communities grow and prosper.

Skills

Analytical capabilities: Urban and regional planning decisions are not made on a whim. For example, when planners are tasked with determining appropriate city-wide infrastructure updates, field investigations and surveys are completed.

Creativity: Urban planners work with thriving cities and with those in need of revitalization. In rundown areas, planners may suggest methods to enhance business development or to create additional livable space.

Interpersonal and communication skills: Urban and regional planners do not work alone. Rather, their work involves frequent collaboration with state and local government officials, developers, architects, engineers and community organizations.

Institutional and government knowledge: All planners must balance the needs of states, cities and communities, while being cognizant of applicable public policies and potential political agendas.

Technological prowess: Design programs and computerized mapping and planning tools help ensure the efficient completion of accurate work.

Growth areas

The current push for environmentally friendly cities has presented unique opportunities for urban and regional planners. Planners are designing increasingly walkable cities and neighborhoods, adding multi-use parks, forming green spaces, integrating green technology and incorporating numerous other elements of sustainability.

Smart city technology is also changing the urban and regional planning landscape. Some of this technology includes sensors that measure rainwater to reduce flooding and prevent expensive damage, smart technology traffic lights that regulate traffic patterns and decrease congestion, LED streetlights that brighten when people pass by or autonomous vehicle capabilities that could increase road safety. The sky is the limit.

How do you enter this exciting field?

Most urban and regional planners have studied topics such as architecture, economics, design or public administration. Many also hold master’s degrees in these areas of study. For instance, urban and regional planners with a Masters in Public Administration (MPA) understand the relevance of economic considerations, are knowledgeable of government operations and have strong financial management skills. Many urban and regional planners bolster their skillsets by competing planning certificate programs.

Urban and regional planners help keep our cities vibrant while moving our economy forward.

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Public Administration Statisticians

Public and private sector statisticians gather, process and analyze data. This information is used to answer complex questions, solve difficult problems, help set public policy, grow our nation’s economy, improve people’s health and more.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipates 34% growth in this field between 2014 and 2024. The internet alone has provided a massive amount of information for statisticians to analyze.

The Responsibilities of a Public Administration Statistician

When endeavoring to answer complex questions, statisticians first determine what type of data must be collected. They then identify and design the most appropriate means of collection, including questionnaires, surveys, polls and tests.

Statisticians also determine which segment of the population must be sampled to generate statistically significant results. For instance, questions addressed by the U.S. Census Bureau are presented to the entire population, while more specific matters are posed to smaller population segments. Questions are then disseminated via mail, internet, social media, phone, email, in person or by conducting in-person or online focus groups.

Once the appropriate data has been collected, it is then analyzed and verified. While a certain margin of error is expected, some results may be identified as faulty. In these instances, statisticians either improve upon their current model, or recommend and employ new methods of data collection. Finally, all verified findings are presented to the agency or group that initially requested the information.

Where do Public Administration Statisticians Work?

BLS reports that 1/3 of all statisticians are either employed by the federal government or work for scientific research firms. The government agencies that most frequently employ statisticians are the U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Economic Analysis, Bureau of Labor Statistics and the National Agricultural Statistical Service. Public sector statisticians also work for other government agencies, public research firms, nonprofit organizations and public academic institutions.

Those who work with the Department of Health and Human Services often operate in tandem with private medical and pharmaceutical employees when testing drug treatments, determining the sources of illnesses and outbreaks and approving new drug treatments.

Public administration statisticians also address commerce related topics. These individuals analyze unemployment rates, wages, hiring trends, retirement numbers and tax data. Statisticians also study voter registration data and conduct public polls to predict election results. Additionally, statistical data can be used to bolster or nullify public policy proposals. Public administration statisticians work on myriad topics. Most federal statisticians work in Washington, D.C. offices.

The Skillset of a Public Administration Statistician

Most statisticians have an educational background in mathematics and computer science. Public administration statisticians who have worked in professions such as medicine, engineering, business and science may rely on their subject-specific knowledge when analyzing relevant data for certain federal agencies.

While you may picture a statistician sitting behind a computer crunching numbers, these individuals have a decent amount of human interaction. Public administration statisticians often collaborate with subject matter experts; therefore, they must be comfortable working as part of a team. Further, once all collected data has been analyzed, statisticians explain and present their findings to the requesting agency heads, who will pepper them with questions and may be critical of the information being presented. Their findings must also be summarized in a cohesive written format.

Most public administration statisticians hold masters level degrees. Those who pursue degrees such as a Masters in Public Administration (MPA) grow their quantitative skillsets while learning how to apply these analytical skills in government, global affairs and public policy arenas.

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Private Sector

What is the Private Sector?

The private sector in a free economy is very large. It includes sole-proprietorships, partnerships, small to mid-size businesses and corporations. These private companies can be publicly traded. At times, private sector businesses form partnerships with public sector entities, forming a public-private partnership.

Private sector businesses and organizations are autonomous. The managers set their own goals and targets, which are driven by profitability. Hiring and firing decisions happen much faster in this sector than in the public sector. Additionally, the revenue private businesses generate can be used immediately and, unlike public sector companies, these companies can choose their own suppliers and distributors.

Entities within this sector answer to a board of directors, shareholders and consumers. While private businesses are not controlled by the government, they are subject to government laws and regulations.

Competition and consumer accountability create private sector efficiencies. These entities must provide excellent products and services to stay in businesses.

Public Administration Careers in the Private Sector

Public administrators who work in the private sector often hold positions that involve frequent interaction with public sector organizations or agencies. Individuals also use their public administration skillset while pursuing seemingly unrelated career paths. The following are some of the most common private sector jobs held by individuals with public administration backgrounds.

Chief Executive Officer/Executive Level Positions: Top executives lead organizations by making high-level strategic decisions that advance business goals. These executives have a vast amount of practical work experience and typically hold a graduate degree.

Consultant: Companies hire outside consultants to help improve their efficiency and profitability. Many consultants are retained because of their expertise in certain areas. Businesses in highly regulated industries often hire consultants with previous government or public administration experience.

Human Resource Manager: A human resources manager is the liaison between government officials or corporate managers and their respective employees. The human resources department oversees hiring, training, compensation and benefit plans, employee grievances, employee discipline, personnel policies, labor negotiations and many other administrative matters. Private businesses and corporations must comply with all applicable employment laws. Human resources managers familiar with federal, state and local regulations review an entity’s employment practices and confirm legal compliance.

Academic Administrator: Academic administration is a supervisory position. While many administrators are former educators, in this job their responsibilities revolve around management-related tasks. This role exists at all levels of education, primary through graduate school. Public and private schools fill these jobs with people who understand academia and are equipped to manage large groups of students.

Marketing Manager: Marketing specialists and managers create strong brand identities that represent the idea, product or service being promoted. Once established, this brand identity can help advance the company’s ultimate goal. A public administrator’s unique perspective allows them to tailor marketing campaigns in a manner that generates a positive response.

Information Technology Administrator: Many laws and regulations affect the online universe. Public administrators can advise private companies about proper data storage and usage.

Journalist: Journalists research various topics and report their findings via print, radio or television. News outlets are interested in individuals who understand the context behind the topics being researched. For instance, political reporters must recognize the way the government functions and know how policies are created and implemented.

Statistician: Statisticians gather, process and analyze data. This information is used to answer complex questions, solve difficult problems and grow businesses. This knowledge is relevant to both public and private sector organizations.

Lawyer: Lawyers offer advice and vigorously defend their clients. Many private law firms employ attorneys who handle matters involving government contracts, government finance, government regulations and other administrative topics.

Healthcare or Pharmaceutical Manager: Healthcare management is a growing field that involves overseeing all aspects of healthcare facilities and care. Individuals in these positions are liaisons between administrators and medical personnel. A thorough understanding of healthcare regulation is imperative in this profession.

Private Sector, Public Administration Education

Many different graduate degrees can help advance a private sector career. One such degree is a Master of Public Administration (MPA). Students in this program acquire the analytical, management and leadership skills needed to build a successful private sector career.

MPA programs cover topics such as strategic planning, statistical analysis, communications, organizational operations and policy interpretation. In addition to these skills, MPA students are also taught about the importance of social responsibility. The increased emphasis MPA programs place on this topic helps their graduates understand consumer wants and needs. Recently, more and more consumers are choosing to align themselves with companies that share their values. Private companies are looking for individuals to create programs that can achieve both community and corporate goals. MPA graduates are uniquely prepared to fulfill these initiatives.

The practical and pragmatic approach of an MPA program allows students to successfully manage the situations they will encounter while working in various private sector jobs.

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Marketing Specialists Working in Public Administration

People often think of marketing in terms of promoting tangible goods or private sector brands. Notably, marketing efforts also support government initiatives, further nonprofit objectives and promote the careers of aspiring politicians.

A Congressional Research Services report indicated that in 2013, federal agencies spent $892.5 million on advertising services contracts. Most of these promotional campaigns took place within the Department of Defense, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Education, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Transportation. Public administration marketing specialists help federal, state and local officials better serve the American people.

Public Sector Marketing Opportunities

Branding In the realm of public administration marketing, the American people are the consumers. Like any private sector marketing employee, public administration marketing specialists must create a strong brand identity that represents the idea, service or candidate being promoted. Once established, this brand identity can help advance an agenda, bring attention to a particular government service, garner support for a specific cause or person, promote an event, share information or highlight an idea.

Government Agency and Program Promotion Through their work, public administration marketing specialists also increase society’s understanding of government programs. Often, individuals have difficulty recognizing the benefits associated with large scale government initiatives. Such promotional efforts allow people to see beyond their own circumstances and better realize how these programs benefit society as a whole. These specialists reduce negative perceptions, thereby increasing program participation.

City Expansion City managers seeking growth opportunities often turn to marketing specialists. These specialists can help attract new families to an area, promote real estate investment, bring in businesses or entice retail and industrial developers. Public administration marketing specialists also help city and state officials pursue Olympic bids or other large scale event opportunities.

Political Candidates Political campaigns are closely akin to private sector marketing campaigns. Candidates spend large sums of money identifying their target customers (the voters) and then create a campaign to sell their unique political brand.

Synergies Marketing specialists recognize that important synergies exist between government agencies. Similarly, synergies are also present between government agencies and nonprofit organizations. By capitalizing on these synergies, agencies and organizations can more efficiently achieve their mutual objectives.

Public Health, Safety and Wellness Many public administration marketing campaigns encourage compliance with laws enacted to improve the public’s health and safety or to protect the environment. Public sector campaign slogans such as, “Click it or Ticket,” “Friends Don’t Let Friends Drive Drunk” and “Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires” promote increased safety and wellness. Public sector campaigns also promote corporate responsibility.

Challenges Facing Public Administration Marketing Specialists

Public administration marketing campaigns do not typically focus on one target market or niche. Rather, the marketing specialists working on these campaigns must create a message that speaks to the entire nation. Additionally, public administration marketing specialists may be constrained by tight operating budgets, limited resources and an abundance of red tape. That said, the creative individuals who overcome these hurdles take great pride in the positive and lasting impact of their work.

Specialized Knowledge

Private and public sector marketing specialists perform similar tasks, though their previous work experiences and educational backgrounds may differ. While pursuing an advanced degree, such as a Masters in Public Administration (MPA), future public sector marketing specialists learn how to work within our system of government. The application of this knowledge helps these individuals effectively promote government programs, initiatives and ideas.

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Job Spotlight – Social Scientist

Interested in a career as a social scientist?

Social science studies the relationships among people within societies. It is a broad academic discipline with many applications and a socially positive outlook. Read on to learn about the career requirements, employment info, and job responsibilities of a social scientist.

Social Science 101

Social science is the academic discipline that studies societies and the relationships of people in those societies. Social science encompasses multiple disciplines, including:

  • Political science
  • Economics
  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Anthropology
  • Archeology
  • Geography
  • Urban planning
  • Public health
  • History
  • Linguistics
  • Jurisprudence
  • Statistics
  • Communication studies

In a broad sense, sociology studies everything that has to do with people and how they interact with each other.

Social science is chiefly concerned with researching and then using the findings to give useful recommendations. These recommendations steer societies towards progress and help individuals manage their issues.

Social Scientist Jobs

As we have seen above, social science offers a broad spectrum of career options. The basis of all social scientist jobs is research and recommendation. A social scientist conducts research within their field. They use their findings to make recommendations to improve society.

In addition to research and recommendation, social scientists may also teach at a college or university. Work in social sciences might also involve fieldwork.

The humans and the societies we build are complex. Therefore, social scientists often work across multiple disciplines to uncover meaningful data. For example, sociologists may have to gather archeological data and compare it with modern findings. Political scientists and public health experts may have to look into historical files to evaluate a contemporary situation.

We are examining some of the major fields in social science below.

Sociology

Sociologists study the interactions between humans. As a sociologist, you will examine how cultures, nations, groups, institutions, and individuals interact. You may seek to develop theories about how these interactions take place and how some groups are more stable than others.

Sociology studies human cooperation in more depth than any other discipline. This is the science that explains how groups work together to achieve a common goal. It is also the science that predicts when disputes might arise and when these can escalate into violence.

Sociologists create theories and test them through research. The main tools for sociological research are polls, surveys, and statistical analysis.

Employment options for sociologists include:

  • Academic
  • Government
  • Consulting
  • Management

Political Science

The most known branch of sociology is political science. This is also the highest paid career path in social sciences.

Political scientists study politics and how they shape modern societies. A political scientist studies modern developments, as well as past historic events. As a political scientist, you will develop theories on political trends, policies and emerging ideas.

Political scientists rely on history and statistics to analyze and predict election results and political preferences. Every time a new head of state is elected, the balance of power shifts. It is up to political scientists to identify how this shift will affect the world.

There are numerous job options for political scientists, including:

  • Government
  • Political lobbies
  • Academic
  • Nonprofit
  • Labor organizations

About half of all political scientists hold positions within the government.

Economics

Economists study how societies produce and distribute resources, goods, and services to individuals. This is the science that explains how people assign values to different things. As an economist, you will investigate how money flows within a society. You might analyze stock markets, buyer trends, interest rates, and global economy.

Economists gather data through surveys, market reports, and statistical analysis. They use this data to predict and advise individuals and organizations on financial matters. Economists often produce financial forecasts that help prevent economic disaster.

The discipline of economics is more than just the study of money. Economists study every kind of things people assign value to, including non-tangible resources.

Employment options for economists include:

  • Government
  • Financial sector
  • Academic
  • Nonprofit
  • Corporate

Many economists pursue executive careers in global corporations.

Psychology

The final major branch of social science is psychology. Psychologists study human behavior in every environment. Psychologists can focus on behavior in the workplace, in public places, within groups, and across distance.

Employment options for psychologists include:

  • Industrial-organizational psychology
  • Nonprofit
  • Academic
  • Social services

This is a diverse discipline with many different career options.

Social Scientist Career Requirements

Social scientists typically hold a master’s degree in history, sociology, anthropology, or psychology. Academic social scientists hold a doctorate, which is required to teach in universities.

For most social scientist jobs, a relevant bachelor’s degree is often enough to secure an entry level position. Additional training and experience in statistics is always helpful when seeking advancement.

Career Advancement and Salary

The career outlook for social scientists is generally positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a small increase in the demand for sociologists in the next decade. Employment for anthropologists is expected to rise by 4%. The only specialty that will shrink is that of political scientists.

Nonetheless, political scientists earn the highest salaries in all social science positions. They are closely followed by sociologists. Historians earn the lowest median wage in all social science positions.

Interested in a Career as a Social Scientist? Check out Public Admin Careers

A career as a social scientist can be fulfilling and lucrative. Analyzing how people interact and guiding society to a better future makes for a meaningful career choice. Here at Public Admin Careers, we are your number one destination for industry resources about public administration careers.

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Exciting Career Paths in Public Administration

A public administration career is ideal for individuals interested in supporting our nation in a multitude of ways.

  1. Administrative Services Manager – Administrative service management positions exist in nearly every economic sector. The individuals who hold these positions are tasked with increasing an organization’s efficiency, productivity and profitability.
  2. Educational Administrator – Educational administrators help manage our nation’s education system by providing guidance, oversight and support. These administrators work to advance both educational leadership and academic achievement.
  3. Nonprofit Executive Director – Nonprofit executive directors are intimately involved a nonprofit’s organizational departments, including fundraising, marketing, human resources, research and development, accounting and finance. They diligently pursue their organization’s primary objectives.
  4. Director of Development for a Nonprofit Organization – A nonprofit director of development’s primary responsibility is fundraising. These individuals work closely with the organization’s executive director and board of directors in pursuit of this goal.
  5. Government Program Analyst – Program analysts are employed by private businesses and by local, state and federal government departments and agencies. The goal of a public sector program analyst is to improve operations and procedures in ways that benefit the U.S., its people and its business interests.
  6. Counterterrorism Analyst – Counterterrorism analysts gather information, conduct investigations, analyze data and present their findings to key government and military officials and intelligence partners, ensuring the safety of our nation.
  7. City Manager – City managers play an important leadership role within a city, municipality or township. Appointed to this coveted position by an elected city council, these individuals are responsible for the overall management of city functions and oversee the work of city employees.
  8. Mayor – Mayors work diligently to fairly represent citizens’ interests in city matters. In pursuit of this goal, these elected officials do not work alone, but rather in tandem with city council members, other administrative representatives and the people they represent.
  9. Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer – Foreign service officers (FSO), more commonly referred to as diplomats, are commissioned members of the U.S. Department of State. These men and women advance U.S. interests abroad by supporting democratic development, identifying opportunities for American businesses and working toward the achievement of fair commerce and trade practices, all while promoting security and peaceful international relations.
  10. Foreign Service Specialist – A foreign service specialist (FSS) is a member of the U.S. Department of State who promotes American interests around the globe. Each FSS applies his or her unique professional and educational experiences while completing technical and administrative functions.
  11. Department of State – U.S. Secretary of State – The Secretary of State is a diplomatic representative appointed by the president who serves as our nation’s chief foreign affairs officer. As the head of the U.S Department of State (DOS), the secretary handles complex matters of international relations and diplomacy.
  12. Urban and Regional Planner – Urban and regional planners are land use experts who assess a city or community’s needs. Skills amassed through training, education and previous work experience help them grow established cities and develop emerging ones.

For more articles like this check out Public Administration Career’s Blog!

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