T.J. Wiley’s work has taken him far, and the East Tennessee native is now serving as a diplomat in the U.S. Foreign Service in Europe.  

The East Tennessee State University graduate credits the university’s online Master of Public Administration Program for much of his success.

“ETSU’s online MPA program was indispensable in helping equip me for my job in the Foreign Service,” said Wiley. “At its heart, public administration examines the management of public entities and public policy in a practical sense.”

Wiley has actually earned two degrees from ETSU. He graduated in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in both political science and psychology. He worked in Washington as a data analyst through the 2020 election cycle before returning to earn his master’s degree.

Abroad, Wiley’s work is vast. His official title is office management specialist, meaning that, among other duties, he provides administrative, operational and technical support to various sections within an embassy or consulate.  

“No two jobs look the same, and the immense diversity in workloads within this profession keeps the job fresh and interesting every day,” he said.

Dr. Frederick Gordon, director of the MPA program, is always pleased to see graduates succeed.  

“We aim to give our graduates the tools they need to excel in any field they choose,” he said. “The added benefit to the online MPA program is that it also provides working professionals the ability to be flexible with their schedules.”

In addition, the MPA program gives students the chance to work in internships, as well as network with those already active in a given field. Such a strategy lines up with the university’s commitment to deliver hands-on learning opportunities to students.  

“I would recommend ETSU’s MPA program to anyone interested in public administration, public policy or working in government at any level. I would also encourage those interested in the Foreign Service to apply,” Wiley said. “The State Department needs more East Tennessee perspectives.”

For more information about the MPA program, visit this site. To apply or learn more about graduate programs at ETSU, visit the ETSU Graduate School web page at etsu.edu/gradschool.

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