Public Administration Careers

The Bureau of Labor Statistics of the United States revealed that state and local governments employed as many as 8.5 million people by 2008. More than two-thirds of these workers worked in various sectors in the local governments. Of these, more than half are in public administration careers.

Despite the worsening economy and the recession fears, public administration offices will never cease to hire new employees. In fact, they are currently opening new job opportunities because the demand for public service has continued and will continue to rise. This is due to the fact that people will continue to need services from the government, especially the old and the sick. After all, no matter how bad the economy might be, people will continue to get old and get sick.

Why Careers in Public Administration are a Smart Choice

The aforementioned reason is just one of the many reasons why careers in public administration are a wise choice for someone looking for a stable work and stable source of income. Because of the big number of job openings which will not be closed anytime soon, one has a much greater chance of actually landing a job. Furthermore, being employed by local governments or the federal government guarantees you good pay and even better incentives. Plus, unlike in private companies, your chances of climbing the hierarchy are also better in public service.

But the most decisive reason why public administration is a wise choice for a job hunter is the financial security. Careers in public administration are opportune posts that you can hold until your retirement, unless you get promoted to a higher position, or you get demoted because of corruption. This advantage is not present in private companies where there is a constant fear that you won’t have a job the following day due to the company’s cost cutting.

A Crucial Investment

However, this opportunity is only available to those with college degrees. Careers in public administration require specialized skills and know-how. These can only acquired through sufficient training, and there is no better training than college education.

If, for example, you feel that you are good at teaching, then choose a course in education. After four years or so, you will be rewarded with a diploma which you can use to apply in public schools. And, if you continue schooling and acquire a master’s degree, you will be able to quickly climb up the ladder.

If you are good at taking care of people, a health care course is in order for you; it may be a nursing career, or the very practical LPN (Licensed Practical Nursing). The latter costs less, and is a good way to start a full-blown nursing career.

Whatever your preferences may be, one thing is certain: you can never get close to any of the public administration careers if you do not have a college degree. Yes, it will take time and it will burn resources, but will all be worth it. Think of it as an investment, perhaps the most important investment that you will ever make.