Overview of Public Administration

Public administration involves the management of public resources, services, and institutions in order to attain public objectives. Individuals in this field are concerned with developing policy, making decisions, formulating budgets, and overseeing personnel. Public administrators may work in nonprofit, government, or corporate organizations. Their work involves applied research, analysis, and evaluation of public programs, policy, and structure. A successful public administrator must understand the legal and political environment, financial resources, and public service agencies.

Career Opportunities Associated with Public Administration

Public administrators typically take on a variety of roles. They serve as public relations officers, project managers, policy analysts, financial advisors, and budget analysts, among other positions. Individuals with a degree in public administration may work in the government, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and loosely connected public service corporations.

Internship or Co-op Opportunities Related to Public Administration

Many universities offer internships or co-op programs for students interested in public administration. These programs provide students with the opportunity to apply learning in a professional field setting. Interns may gain hands-on experience in writing program plans, budgeting, and project management. They may also learn about public relations, human resource management, and administrative policies.

Specialized Tracks or Concentrations Within Public Administration

Most universities offer specialized tracks or concentrations within the public administration field. These specializations may focus on areas such as information technology management, homeland security, urban planning, international and comparative public service, nonprofit management, and public policy and management.

How Public Administration Prepares Students for Graduate School or Further Education

A degree in public administration provides students with an understanding of the government, politics, and regulatory structures. The courses and internships that are part of a public administration program prepare students to excel in a graduate school program or further education. Specifically, these skills are helpful in pursuing a master’s or doctorate degree in public affairs, public policy, or law.

Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Public Administration

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used by public administration professionals in areas such as healthcare, security, transportation, and public services. AI can help maximize the efficiency of public services and improve the decision-making process by automatically interpreting data. Public administrators are using AI to facilitate problem-solving and enable more accurate predictions and performance evaluation.

Career Outlook for Public Administration

The public administration field is expected to continue to grow over the next decade. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Opportunity Project estimates the field will grow from 33,300 jobs in 2019 to 44,400 jobs by 2029, resulting in a 34% increase. Positions such as policy planners, public health consultants, and budget analysts are expected to be in high demand, as more public resources are necessary to meet growing public needs.

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

Barry University, Salary: $71,434

Colorado State University Global, Salary: $68,522

California State University-Northridge, Salary: $65,244

National University, Salary: $61,249

Western Carolina University, Salary: $55,712

University of Maryland Global Campus, Salary: $55,385

Upper Iowa University, Salary: $53,774

University of Phoenix-New Jersey, Salary: $52,336

University of Phoenix-Utah, Salary: $52,336

University of Phoenix-Arizona, Salary: $52,336

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