Public Administration Degree

Program Overview

Southern New Hampshire University's online BS in Business Administration with a Public Administration concentration equips students with a comprehensive understanding of business concepts and specialized knowledge in public administration. The program's flexible online format allows students to progress at their own pace, while experienced faculty provide personalized support. Graduates are prepared for careers in the public sector, non-profit organizations, and businesses, with potential roles including administrative services manager, social and community service manager, and policy analyst.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Southern New Hampshire University's online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration with a concentration in Public Administration provides students with a solid foundation in business concepts, coupled with specialized knowledge in public administration, preparing them for careers in the public sector or non-profit organizations. The program's objectives include developing students' understanding of public policy development and implementation, public administration management, fiscal budgeting, community dynamics, politics, and public policy. Graduates of the program are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to make informed recommendations for policies and programs that serve the best interests of communities, constituents, and businesses.

Outline:

Course Schedule:

The program is offered in a flexible online format, with no set class meeting times. Students can progress through the program at their own pace, accessing online course materials 24/7. The program consists of a total of 120 credits, including 30 credits of general education courses, 30 credits of business core courses, and 30 credits of public administration concentration courses.

Individual Modules with Module Descriptions:

General Education Courses

• English Composition I and II: Develop critical thinking, reading, writing, and communication skills.
• Mathematics: Enhance quantitative reasoning and problem-solving abilities.
• Science: Explore fundamental scientific concepts and their applications.
• History: Analyze historical events and their impact on society.
• Social Sciences: Examine human behavior, social structures, and global issues.

Business Core Courses

• Financial Accounting: Understand financial reporting and analysis.
• Managerial Accounting: Apply accounting principles to decision-making.
• Microeconomics: Study individual markets and consumer behavior.
• Macroeconomics: Analyze the economy as a whole.
• Marketing: Develop strategies for creating, promoting, and delivering products or services.
• Management: Explore principles and practices of effective management.
• Business Law: Understand legal issues affecting businesses.
• Operations Management: Optimize business processes and supply chains.
• Information Systems: Leverage technology to enhance business operations.
• Business Ethics: Examine ethical considerations in business decision-making.

Public Administration Concentration Courses

• Public Administration: Explore the field of public administration, its theories, and career opportunities.
• Public Fiscal Management: Analyze public budgeting, financial management, and oversight.
• Policy Analysis and the Role of the Public: Understand policy development, implementation, and evaluation.
• Program Evaluation and Accountability: Learn to evaluate public programs and demonstrate their effectiveness.
• American Politics: Examine the structure and function of the American political system.

Assessment:

Students' progress is assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Exams: Test students' knowledge and understanding of course material.
• Assignments: Projects, papers, and presentations demonstrate students' ability to apply their learning.
• Discussion Boards: Engage students in critical thinking and collaborative learning.
• Case Studies: Provide real-world scenarios for students to analyze and solve.
• Simulations: Allow students to experience and practice public administration decision-making.

Teaching:

The program is taught by experienced faculty with expertise in public administration and related fields. Instructors provide personalized feedback and support to students throughout the program. The program also utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Interactive Lectures: Engage students in active learning through discussions and case studies.
• Online Discussions: Facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing among students.
• Virtual Simulations: Provide immersive experiences for students to apply their learning.
• Mentoring: Connect students with experienced professionals in the field.

Careers:

Graduates of the Public Administration program are prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in the public sector, non-profit organizations, and businesses. Potential career paths include:

• Administrative Services Manager: Supervise staff, manage records, and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Social and Community Service Manager: Coordinate and supervise programs that support public well-being.
• Budget Analyst: Analyze and manage public and private budgets.
• Policy Analyst: Develop, implement, and evaluate public policies.
• Grant Writer: Secure funding for public and non-profit organizations.
• Public Relations Specialist: Manage public relations and communications for government agencies or non-profits.
• Emergency Management Official: Plan and respond to emergencies.
• Nonprofit Executive Director: Lead and manage non-profit organizations.
• Municipal Manager: Oversee the operations of a municipality.
• Legislator: Represent constituents in government.