Many MPP alumni graduate and go on to seek jobs in the public sector across the local, state, and federal levels. Some jobs are classified as “civil service” jobs whereas others are called “non civil service" jobs. We spoke to MPP Advisor Dr. Joesph McLaughlin to clarify the difference between these two types of jobs.  

When applying for open positions in the federal, state, or local governments, you should understand whether the positions are civil service or non-civil-service (sometimes described as “exempt”). Civil service jobs often require applicants to score well on a competitive test; restrict the political activities of job holders; have well-defined job descriptions and graded salary levels; provide job holders with procedural protections from “arbitrary” or “unfair” supervisors or termination; and generally are more involved with policy implementation than policy making. Non-civil-service job holders generally work directly for elected officials or for policy making appointees in executive branch agencies or in state-created authorities like SEPTA and quasi-public entities like the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation; have more flexible job descriptions and salary levels; are “at-will” employees who can be terminated more easily by their supervisors; are expected to share the political perspectives of their employers but also have more freedom to engage in political activities, such as working in political campaigns, after hours. Most (but not all) executive branch jobs are covered by civil service rules, and most legislative branch jobs are non-civil service. For more information about civil service jobs, visit the City’s website.  

Temple University’s Master of Public Policy trains you to develop and evaluate government programs and activities. This twelve course professional degree program prepares graduates for careers in the public, non-profit or private sector. You can learn more about the program on our website, or contact mpp@temple.edu with any questions.