Introduction
Embarking on a Bachelor’s of Public Administration (BPA) undergraduate degree can be a transformative step towards a rewarding career in public service. At many institutions, the BPA curriculum format is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of public sector management, policy analysis, and leadership.
Career interests for BPA graduates are diverse and can include positions in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, consulting firms, and private companies that work closely with the public sector. Graduates may pursue roles such as program manager, policy analyst, budget analyst, or city planner, among others.
Program Design and Overview
A BPA degree can be a valuable investment for those passionate about making a positive impact in their communities and beyond. It provides a solid foundation in public administration principles and practices, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a variety of public service careers.
Curriculum Format
The curriculum format for a Bachelor’s of Public Administration (BPA) degree typically consists of a combination of core courses, electives, and sometimes a capstone project or internship. The duration of the program can vary depending on whether a student is attending full-time or part-time, but most BPA programs can be completed in four years of full-time study.
Classes in a BPA program often cover topics related to public administration, including:
- Introduction to Public Administration: An overview of the field of public administration, including its history, theories, and key concepts.
- Public Policy Analysis: An examination of the policy-making process, including how policies are formulated, implemented, and evaluated.
- Organizational Behavior: A study of how individuals and groups behave within organizations, with a focus on leadership, communication, and motivation.
- Public Finance: An exploration of the principles of public finance, including budgeting, taxation, and financial management in the public sector.
- Ethics in Public Administration: A discussion of ethical issues and dilemmas faced by public administrators, and how to make ethical decisions in the public sector.
Helpful minors for BPA students can vary depending on their career goals, but common minors that complement a BPA degree include political science, economics, sociology, urban studies, or environmental studies. These minors can provide students with additional knowledge and skills that can enhance their understanding of public administration and make them more competitive in the job market.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for a BPA program typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, along with standardized test scores and letters of recommendation. Some programs may also require a personal statement or interview to assess the applicant’s interest and commitment to public service.
In terms of costs, tuition for a BPA program can vary widely depending on the institution and whether students attend full-time or part-time. Financial aid, scholarships, and work-study opportunities are often available to help offset these costs and make pursuing a BPA degree more affordable.
4+1 Public Administration Programs
For those interested in furthering their education, many universities offer 4+1 programs that allow students to earn a master’s degree in public administration (MPA) in addition to their BPA in a condensed time frame. These programs provide a seamless transition for students looking to enhance their skills and credentials for advanced roles in public administration.
Undergraduate Programs in Public Administration
Texas A&M University – College Station
- College Station, TX
- Online + Campus
4+1: Yes
Program Overview:
These programs allow qualified majors to start the Master of Public Service and Administration (MPSA) program in their fourth year of undergraduate study. Students can count certain courses towards both their undergraduate and graduate degrees, enabling them to earn both degrees concurrently in five years.
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- Online + Campus
4+1: Yes
Program Overview:
The Bachelor of Science major and minor in Public Administration at UCF are tailored to prepare students for administrative roles in public and nonprofit organizations. The curriculum aligns with the competency areas recommended by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA).
University of Colorado – Denver
- Denver, CO
- Campus
4+1: Yes
Program Overview:
The University of Colorado Denver’s Bachelor Arts in Public Administration is an applied, generalist degree designed for those who are passionate about making a difference in their community; preparing them to take active roles in organizations that promote the common good.
University of Kansas
- Overland Park, KS
- Campus
4+1: Yes
Program Overview:
The undergraduate public administration degree program at the University of Kansas (KU) equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills for designing, executing, and assessing public programs. Through this program, students develop critical and analytical thinking abilities regarding public policy, enabling them to grasp the intricacies of their communities and become more adept citizens and public servants.
Winona State University
- Rochester, MN
- Campus
4+1: No
Program Overview:
This program is designed to cater to students interested in both traditional public service careers and those considering advanced studies in policy analysis and program management. Advising is crucial in selecting a major/minor combination that aligns with individual career goals. For more information and guidance, students can consult the Department of Political Science and Public Administration.
University of Southern Indiana
- Evansville, IN
- Campus
4+1: Yes
Program Overview:
Students gain valuable experience through internships in campaigns, legislative offices, and nonprofit organizations. Graduates of the program have secured positions at various levels of government, as well as in fields such as politics, law, business, the nonprofit sector, education, and media.
Rutgers University
- Newark, NJ
- Online + Campus
4+1: Yes
Program Overview:
The program emphasizes experiential learning, moving beyond traditional academic coursework. Through internships and projects, students gain practical knowledge and skills, preparing them for fulfilling careers in government or the nonprofit sector across various policy areas.
California State University – Fullerton
- Fullerton, CA
- Campus
4+1: No
Program Overview:
Students acquire a blend of skills in management, policy, and politics applicable to various roles. The program is particularly relevant for those aiming to work in the public sector or the expanding field of nonprofit organizations.
Medgar Evers College
- Brooklyn, NY
- Campus
4+1: No
Program Overview:
The program prepares students to become informed leaders and offers concentrations in areas such as public policy, public sector management, nonprofit administration, urban administration, international administration, criminal justice, and general studies.
San Diego State University
- San Diego, CA
- Campus
4+1: Yes
Program Overview:
The undergraduate public administration major is interdisciplinary, allowing students to take courses in economics, sociology, social welfare, political science, and psychology. This program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for management careers in government, community agencies, private not-for-profit organizations, planning and consulting firms, and private sector organizations collaborating with the public sector.
National University
- San Diego, CA
- Online
4+1: No
Program Overview:
NU’s program stands out for its flexible formats, including four-week courses both on-campus and online, with the option to complete the entire program online. The curriculum emphasizes central theories of public administration, operations and procedures analysis, research on current public administration issues, and skill development for success in the field.
University of Northern Iowa
- Cedar Falls, IA
- Campus
4+1: No
Program Overview:
The University of Northern Iowa offers an affordable Bachelor of Arts in public administration, ranked #2 in the “Top Public Schools Regional University (Midwest)” by U.S. News & World Report. This program provides a well-rounded curriculum that can be tailored with minors in political science, international affairs, or politics in law. Students study management, policies, and decision-making in government, nonprofits, and the private sector.
Old Dominion University
- Norfolk, VA
- Online
4+1: Yes
Program Overview:
A quarter of ODU’s student body comprises military personnel or veterans, leading to its recognition as the “Best for Vets” institution in Virginia by Military Times. For those interested in pursuing graduate studies, ODU offers a linked bachelor’s and master’s degree program in public administration.
University of La Verne
- Ontario, CA
- Online + Campus
4+1: Yes
Program Overview:
The University of La Verne’s undergraduate public administration program emphasizes the theory, applications, and practice of public sector management. Students develop skills through class participation, special projects, and research reports. The program is available online and at various locations in California, offering convenience and flexibility to students.
Barry University
- Miami Shores, FL
- Online
4+1: No
Program Overview:
The Bachelor of Public Administration program offers flexibility for working professionals, with all classes held in a synchronous online format using platforms like Zoom. This allows students to attend live classes from anywhere with an internet connection, whether at home, a Barry University campus, or elsewhere.
University of Arizona
- Phoenix, AZ
- Online
4+1: No
Program Overview:
Through the global campus, students can customize a bachelor’s degree with an emphasis in public administration to align with their career goals. This option includes courses like Intergovernmental Relations and Issues, Public Organizational Theory and Behavior, and Urban Management, in addition to the core courses.
University of Tennessee – Knoxville
- Knoxville, TN
- Campus
4+1: No
Program Overview:
This program combines business administration, economics, and political science, preparing students for careers in public policy and public service. With a Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education University, UT offers a wide range of academic programs to its nearly 31,000 students.
Tarleton State University
- Stephenville, TX
- Online + Campus
4+1: No
Program Overview:
Tarleton State University, part of the Texas A&M University System, offers an affordable Bachelor of Science in Public Administration across five campus locations and online. The program focuses on developing skills in problem-solving, writing, research, project and people management, and technology, preparing students for various public leadership careers.
Indian River State College
- Fort Pierce, FL
- Online
4+1: No
Program Overview:
Students start with an associate’s degree in arts in public administration before transitioning to the bachelor’s program, which requires 60 credits including core classes, concentration courses, electives, and a capstone project. IRSC is recognized for its leadership in education and innovation, providing accessible academic programs both on-campus and online.
Texas State University
- San Marcos, TX
- Campus
4+1: No
Program Overview:
The university offers a high-value Bachelor of Public Administration program with minors in political communication or political science. The undergraduate program includes 36 credit hours of major credits, including nine hours of writing-intensive courses, covering topics such as Political Institutions and Public Service, Public Finance Administration, Public Policy, and Urban Management.
Hawaii Pacific University
- Honolulu, HI
- Online + Campus
4+1: No
Program Overview:
The program covers a broad range of topics in public administration with a focus on executive management and institutional structure. Students take upper-division courses including Ethics and Justice, Analytical Techniques and Methods, Public Personnel Administration, and Urban Government.
John Jay College of Criminal Justice
- New York, NY
- Campus
4+1: No
Program Overview:
The college offers a Bachelor’s of Science in Public Administration, known for its high value. The program includes core courses in problem-solving, leadership, and management in public organizations, comprising 42-45 of the required 120 credits.
Kean University
- Union, NJ
- Campus
4+1: Yes
Program Overview:
It is the only public university in the U.S. with a campus in China. Kean offers over 50 undergraduate majors, including a Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration. The program prepares students to make a difference in communities by providing 36 credits in public administration courses, alongside general education courses and electives.
Illinois Institute of Technology
- Chicago, IL
- Campus
4+1: Yes
Program Overview:
The program begins with business studies and progresses to analytical and management courses, along with training in the chosen concentration and research projects. Full-time students can complete the program in five years, and graduates often find employment in prestigious organizations such as the American Cancer Society, Motorola, the Lincoln Park Zoo, and the city of Chicago.
University of Maine at Augusta
- Augusta, ME
- Campus
4+1: No
Program Overview:
Recent graduates have acquired positions such as Commissioner, Chief Deputy Secretary of State, Clerk of the Maine House of Representatives, town manager, sheriff, police chief, fire chief, and airport manager. Graduates have found success in various public and nonprofit organizations that contribute to the quality of life in Maine.
Grand Canyon University
- Phoenix, AZ
- Online
4+1: Yes
Program Overview:
Grand Canyon University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Government with an Emphasis in Public Administration, aiming to develop skilled public service leaders for local and state government. The program explores the workings of government and public policies at these levels, focusing on improving community life.
James Madison University
- Harrisonburg, PA
- Campus
4+1: No
Program Overview:
The public administration major offers a foundational understanding of public policy, the public workplace, and its political, legal, and managerial contexts. It prepares students for careers and leadership roles in government and nonprofit sectors.
George Mason University
- Fairfax, VA
- Campus
4+1: Yes
Program Overview:
The Bachelor of Science in Public Administration equips students with valuable knowledge and skills to address real-world challenges and lead change effectively. The program focuses on governance, policy analysis, and management, preparing students for leadership roles in nonprofit organizations, policy advocacy, or various levels of government.
Florida Atlantic University
- Boca Raton, FL
- Campus
4+1: Yes
Program Overview:
The Bachelor of Public Management program provides a comprehensive overview of administrative structures and functions in public sector organizations. It not only offers foundational skills for public sector work but also encourages study in related fields like architecture, business, criminal justice, political science, psychology, social work, and urban and regional planning.