Overview of Public Administration

Public administration encompasses a wide array of roles in the public sector, from government program managers overseeing public funding, to coordinators of social and administrative services, to policy analysts. Professionals in public administration serve as problem-solvers administratively and politically, analyzing human behavior to address contentious social issues, strengthen local government, and advocate for change.

How Difficult is it to get a Doctorate in Public Administration?

Between two and four years of study is typically required to gain a Doctorate in Public Administration (DPA). The program combines courses in public sector management, economics, political science, public policy, and research methods. Students typically have to complete a dissertation, offering significant depth of research and analysis.

What are the career opportunities for professionals with a Doctoral Degree in Public Administration?

Career opportunities for DPA holders include policy development, academic positions in public policy or public administration, managerial positions in the public or non-profit sectors, and research associate roles for think tanks. Some also choose to pursue consulting or advisory positions in public policy or management in the public sector.

Are you expected to teach when obtaining a Doctoral Degree in Public Administration?

It is not a requirement to teach when obtaining a Doctoral Degree in Public Administration. However, for those who would like to pursue an academic career, teaching is an important part of obtaining a doctoral degree in Public Administration. Furthermore, teaching experience can open the door to other career opportunities within the field of Public Administration.

What are the typical steps in getting a Doctoral Degree in Public Administration?

Typically, a student interested in gaining a Doctoral Degree in Public Administration will have to take the following steps: apply and be accepted by a university with a DPA program, take prescribed courses, attend colloquia and seminars, complete a dissertation, pass a comprehensive examination, and defend the dissertation. Some universities may have additional requirements such as a masters degree in the field of Public Administration.

Is a Doctorate in Public Administration worth pursuing?

A Doctorate in Public Administration is often seen as the pinnacle of education in public sector management, and can be invaluable for those wishing to pursue a career in public administration. With a DPA, you have access to a variety of public sector jobs and can strengthen your credibility and standing when it comes to leadership roles in government and non-governmental organisations.

Impact of artificial intelligence on Public Administration?

Artificial intelligence is beginning to have a significant impact on public administration. AI can be used to streamline administrative processes and paperwork, increase the speed of decision-making, optimize research into public policy, and improve the accuracy and effectiveness of public services. This new technology is also helping to automate many of the mundane tasks associated with public administration jobs.

The career outlook for Doctorates in Public Administration?

The career outlook for people with Doctorate in Public Administration is positive. Public administration professionals are highly sought after in the modern economy, and those holding a DPA are particularly well-respected and sought after. With the help of technology advancing, DPA holders will be in high demand to manage and optimize public sector processes and services.

Here are the top reported starting salaries for graduates in Public Administration:

Walden University, Salary: $77,767

For privacy reasons, not all schools report the first year salaries for students who earned their doctoral degree in Public Administration.