Public Administration
Interdisciplinary Major or Minor (Bachelor of Science)
Professors - Michael E. Kraft, William R. Niedzwiedz, Denise L. Scheberle, John R. Stoll
Associate Professor - Scott R. Furlong (chair)
Assistant Professors - Troy D. Abel, Theresa Johnson, Laurel E.
Phoenix
Web site: http://www.uwgb.edu/pea/pubadm/
The public administration major is a broad-based, interdisciplinary, social science major. It is designed to prepare students for challenging careers in public and nonprofit organizations, as well as for further study in graduate programs. Students develop proficiency in organizational management and leadership, public policy analysis, policy development and implementation, budgeting, and governmental processes.
Graduates hold positions as professional administrators, policy analysts, budget specialists, program managers, personnel counselors, governmental affairs directors for businesses, and human resource specialists. Many pursue graduate studies in public administration, law, political science, social services, public policy, and public affairs.
Because of the wide range of course offerings in public administration, students may sharpen their managerial skills so that they may pursue careers in management within public or non-profit organizations. Students may also choose to focus on understanding substantive policy (such as environmental policy) and public policy design.
All public administration majors engage in both theoretical and applied studies. Many courses include theory as well as problem-focused, applied learning. Students are encouraged to gain these experiences through independent study, community research projects, and the internship program administered by the department. Public administration majors in the past have completed internships in city, county and state executive offices, as well as in non-profit agencies.
The major in public administration consists of three sets of requirements: required supporting courses, upper-level core courses, and elective credits within the major. Other courses are recommended for public administration majors. Students are encouraged to seek assistance from a faculty adviser in creating their academic plan.
Considering a Double Major or a Major and a Minor?
Many public administration majors also choose to major in political science, environmental policy and planning or economics. A second major complements the public administration curriculum, and makes students stronger candidates when seeking careers or entry into graduate programs. An interdisciplinary minor in public administration fits well with a major in political science, economics, communication, environmental policy and planning, urban and regional studies, social change and development, and others. See a faculty adviser early in your academic career for advice on these options.