Joint BA in Urban Studies/Master of Public Adminstration

Program Overview

The Joint BA in Urban Studies/Master of Public Administration (BAUS/MPA) program at the University of Illinois Chicago is designed for high-achieving undergraduates aiming for graduate studies in Public Administration. It offers a seamless transition to graduate studies, allowing students to earn both degrees in an accelerated timeframe. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through internships, service-learning opportunities, and applied research projects, preparing graduates for diverse careers in the public and non-profit sectors.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Joint BA in Urban Studies/Master of Public Administration (BAUS/MPA)

This program is designed for high-achieving undergraduate students aiming to pursue graduate studies in Public Administration.

Objectives:

• Equip students with the knowledge and skills to effectively analyze and address complex urban issues.
• Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication expertise relevant to public service careers.
• Provide a strong foundation in public policy, administration, and management.
• Prepare graduates for leadership roles in various public and non-profit organizations.

Program Description:

The BAUS/MPA program offers a seamless transition from undergraduate to graduate studies, allowing students to earn both degrees in an accelerated timeframe. By completing 9 shared courses, students can cover core requirements for both programs efficiently. The curriculum focuses on urban studies, public administration, policy analysis, leadership development, and research methods. Students gain real-world experience through internships and capstone projects, preparing them for successful careers in the public sector.

• Requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.40 for application and throughout the senior year.
• Students must maintain a GPA of at least 3.00 in all graduate coursework.

Outline:

BAUS/MPA Curriculum:

The program consists of 111 undergraduate hours, 9 shared hours counting towards both BAUS and MPA degrees, and 45 hours of graduate coursework.

• Undergraduate coursework: covers foundational knowledge in urban studies, social sciences, and humanities.
• Shared coursework (9 hours): focuses on public policy, administration, and management principles.
• Graduate coursework (45 hours): delves deeper into specialized areas of public administration, such as policy analysis, program evaluation, and leadership.

Structure:

The program is designed for full-time students and typically takes 5 years to complete. Students can start expressing their intent to join the program as freshmen or transfer students. However, students can expect to cover topics like:

• Urban politics and policy
• Public budgeting and finance
• Public personnel management
• Policy analysis and evaluation
• Leadership and ethics
• Research methods in public administration

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student learning outcomes. These include:

• Exams (midterms and finals)
• Assignments (essays, research papers, case studies)
• Class participation and presentations
• Group projects
• Capstone project

Assessment Criteria:

Assessments are based on specific criteria depending on the course and assignment type. Generally, criteria focus on:

• Knowledge and understanding of key concepts
• Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Analytical and research skills
• Written and oral communication skills
• Teamwork and collaboration

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The program employs diverse teaching methods to cater to various learning styles and promote active engagement. These methods include:

• Lectures
• Seminars and discussions
• Case studies and simulations
• Guest lectures by practitioners
• Field visits and research projects

Faculty:

The program boasts experienced faculty members holding expertise in various areas of urban studies and public administration. Faculty members are actively involved in research and have extensive experience in public service.

Unique Approach:

The program emphasizes a hands-on learning approach through internships, service-learning opportunities, and applied research projects. Students gain valuable real-world experience and develop practical skills applicable to future careers in public service.

Careers:

Career Paths:

Graduates of the BAUS/MPA program are well-prepared for diverse careers in the public and non-profit sectors. Potential career paths include:

• Public policy analyst
• Program manager
• Budget analyst
• Urban planner
• Non-profit administrator
• Government relations specialist
• Community development specialist

Career Outcomes:

The program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experience to succeed in public service careers. Graduates can expect competitive salaries, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on their communities.

Other:

Joint BA in Urban Studies/Master of Public Policy (BAUS/MPP):

This program offers a similar structure and curriculum as the BAUS/MPA, but focuses on public policy analysis and development. Students can expect to take courses in policy design, implementation, evaluation, and advocacy.

Joint BA in Urban Studies/Master of Urban Planning and Policy (BAUS/MUPP):

This program combines urban studies with planning and policy to equip graduates for careers in urban development, land-use planning, and sustainable城市发展. Students take courses in urban design, transportation, environmental planning, and community development.

Joint BA in Urban Studies/MS in Civic Analytics (BAUS/MSCA):

This program emphasizes the use of data analytics in understanding and addressing urban issues. Students learn how to collect, analyze, and visualize data to inform policy decisions and improve urban outcomes.

Additional Notes:

• Students admitted to joint programs may use up to three 400-level BAUS courses to fulfill graduate elective requirements.
• Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.00 in all graduate coursework.
• For BAUS/MUPP, students admitted to the joint program may use up to three 400-level BAUS courses to fulfill 9 hours of MUPP elective requirements.
This comprehensive extraction captures all available information from the provided context regarding the Joint BA in Urban Studies/Master of Public Administration, Joint BA in Urban Studies/Master of Public Policy, Joint BA in Urban Studies/Master of Urban Planning and Policy, and Joint BA in Urban Studies/MS in Civic Analytics programs at the University of Illinois Chicago.