Public Administration Degrees

Overview

Public administration degrees are ideal for people who are service oriented and interested in administration. Colleges offer programs at the associate, bachelor's, and master's levels. Many students choose to continue their education and pursue an advanced Master in Public Administration (MPA) program that provides training in administration and policy analysis. An MPA is ideal for those who have completed an associate's or bachelor's degree in a technical or liberal arts discipline and want to work in areas including policy analysis, local government, criminal justice, or research.

Master of Justice Administration (MJA) programs specialize in the advanced study of criminal justice and equip students with management and leadership skills. MJA programs are ideal for people who wish to pursue a career in law enforcement, corrections, or courts.

MJA coursework covers topics including planning, court systems, law enforcement, and corrections.

Benefits

Graduates from public administration programs hold jobs in government agencies, protective services, international organizations, justice organizations, and military organizations. Job titles include city manager, policy analyst, public relations director, deputy minister, and manager.

Costs

Educational costs vary by program, location, and school. Master's programs range from $7,000 to $40,000, while undergraduate programs can cost up to $160,000. Other fees include admissions, activities, room, and board. In spite of rising costs of education, many schools offer opportunities for scholarships and financial aid.

Schools

Texas A&M University, Ohio State University, Notre Dame de Namur University, and University of Phoenix offer degree programs in public administration. There are many universities that offer online programs in public administration. Some of them are Kaplan University, Ashford University, and Capella University.

Testing & Preparation

Students who pursue a program in public administration should have the following qualities: a strong intellect, acuity, a sense of professional competence, and a commitment to public service. Master's programs require applicants to submit Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) and/or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) scores. Some programs require work experience.

Undergraduate programs require a high school diploma or General Education Development (GED) certificate. Many admissions committees emphasize the importance of Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or American College Test (ACT) scores. Submitting College Level Examination Program (CLEP) scores and/or DANTES Subject Standardized Test (DSST) scores could be an added advantage for admission.

Financial Aid

Financial aid options include grants, loans, and scholarships. For example, the University of Phoenix awards scholarships to high achieving students. Notre Dame de Namur University also provides options for financial assistance.

Students who are natives of Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Greece, Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Albania, Romania, Serbia and Turkey can apply for The Kokkali Fellowship.