Government career interests, perceptions of fit, and degree orientations

Abstract

Scholars have long suggested that the degree orientations of public administration programs were related to the attitudes and behaviors of students, even though empirical research had failed to confirm this relationship. The purpose of this study was to re-examine this question from the standpoint of perceptions of fit. Using a sample of approximately 500 students enrolled in 26 master’s degree programs across the country, this study confirmed that the degree orientations of graduate programs were indirectly related to career preferences, through perceptions of fit in government organizations. Students who were enrolled in degree programs that required fewer core method related courses were associated with positive perceptions of their fit in government organizations, which subsequently was associated with a greater likelihood of seeking employment in local, state, or federal levels of government. The implications of this study for public administration programs and government service are discussed.