Public Administration Major

Description: A program that prepares individuals to serve as managers in the executive arm of local, state, and federal government and that focuses on the systematic study of executive organization and management. Includes instruction in the roles, development, and principles of public administration; the management of public policy; executive-legislative relations; public budgetary processes and financial management; administrative law; public personnel management; professional ethics; and research methods. Is Public Administration the right major for you?
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Public Administration Major

What Kinds of Students Major in Public Administration?

Individuals who wish to pursue a career in either a government office or a public office, which services and coordinates the public, are found in this major. These people need to possess analytical, quantitative, organizational, communicative, and computer skills in order to be of the best value to their employers and their positions. This is a major, which focuses upon services to the general public, and individuals working here receive a sense of accomplishment for what they do for the community.

Is Public Administration the right major for you?
Take the MyMajors Quiz and find out if it is one of your top recommended majors!

What Courses Do Public Administration Majors Take?

The required and elective courses you would take for Public Administration majors vary considerably among institutions. Courses are listed here that are illustrative of the breadth of topics you are likely to experience were you to major in this field.

  • Administration
  • Public and Non-Profit Budgeting
  • Constitutional Foundations of Diplomacy
  • Environmental Problems
  • Government Organization
  • Intermediate Decision Making
  • Issues in Public Administration
  • Legislative Process
  • Management Science
  • Policy Formulation
  • Policy Implementation
  • Public Administration
  • Science / Technology / Public Policy