Bachelor of Public Administration

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Earn a public administration degree and make a difference in your community

Degree:

Bachelor of Public Administration

Application:

$0 application fee. No essays/exams.

Cities, towns, and villages depend on advocates who are sensitive to the needs of their community and possess the specialized knowledge and skills to make improvements that benefit the people who live there. National University’s Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) is designed to prepare you for an important career in a dynamic and growing field.

Our public administration degree can qualify you to pursue a wide range of professional roles and responsibilities at the local, state, and federal levels. From writing grant proposals and speaking at fundraising events, successful completion of NU’s BPA program can prepare you for mid-level positions in government agencies and nonprofit organizations.

Public administration is an important and respected career path ripe with opportunities for advancement, and our curriculum is designed to prepare you with the industry-current qualifications to pursue them.

Degree Requirements

To receive a Bachelor of Public Administration, students must complete at least 180 quarter units as described below, 76.5 of which must be completed at the upper-division level, 45 of which must be completed in residence at National University, with a minimum of 69 units of the University General Education requirements. In the absence of transfer credit, students may need to take additional general electives to satisfy the total units for the degree. Refer to the section on undergraduate admission procedures for specific information regarding application and evaluation. All students receiving an undergraduate degree in Nevada are required by State Law to complete a course in Nevada Constitution.

National University awards credit in quarter units, with each academic year divided into four 12-week quarters. 

Each quarter is made up of three 4-week classes, with one class per month. Under the current policy, 4.5 units of credit are awarded for courses.

Preparation for the Major

3 Courses

4.5 Quarter Units

Key mathematical and statistical concepts useful for understanding business problems and making informed decisions with the right tools are introduced. Concepts relate to numbers, formulas, linear equation models and descriptive statistics. Applications focus on personal decisions and decisions within businesses in the areas of finance, discounts, pricing, interest rates, loans, insurance, investment, payroll and taxes. Microsoft Excel is the software used in this class. MNS 205 and MTH 210 are the primary quantitative courses required for MNS 407. Students who have taken college algebra or calculus (MTH 215 or MTH 220) are exempt from this course.

4.5 Quarter Units

In this course, students will study the price system, market structures, and consumer theory. Topics covered include supply and demand, price controls, public policy, the theory of the firm, cost and revenue concepts, forms of competition, elasticity, and efficient resource allocation, among others.

4.5 Quarter Units

A survey of basic accounting theory and the application of accounting principles, this course includes the recording and summarization of business transactions in the form of financial statements under the rules of generally accepted accounting principles. (GAAP). It is designed for students who have little or no prior knowledge of financial accounting, this course corresponds to Principles of Accounting I at other colleges.

Requirements for the Major

12 Courses

4.5 Quarter Units

An introduction to the impact that individuals, groups, and structure have on behavior within organizations for the purpose of applying such knowledge toward improving an organizations effectiveness. The course will focus on work-related behavior with an emphasis on individual and group performance as it relates to organizational productivity and processes. A central theme will be the development of “people” skills to help all employees- staff, front-line supervision, and management- improve their effectiveness.

4.5 Quarter Units

A general survey course of the theory and practice of public administration, its legal and constitutional foundation and the role of the public administrator in public policy. The context of the discussions are based on the current issues facing administrators.

4.5 Quarter Units

This course discusses the public policy issues facing communities and the role of the public administrator in implementing policy. Examines the role of community action groups in developing and influencing policies. Evaluates the impact of policy decisions on communities and the ethical issues surrounding decisions.

4.5 Quarter Units

This course explores the role urban environments play in the nation. Discusses the issues unique to cities and large metropolitan areas and the role of governments and public agencies in addressing the issues. Discusses the ethical issues facing public administrators in dealing with urban and rural environments.

4.5 Quarter Units

Exploration of values and ethics in businesses that operate locally and internationally. Moral philosophies, values, conflict of interests, discrimination, business cultures, and ethical standards are critically presented. Ethical leadership of people, technology and sustainability are used in the development and implementation of ethical business programs.

4.5 Quarter Units

This course is an exploration of how to communicate with citizens in a positive and helpful fashion. Discusses how to interact with community groups and the press and how to promote public understanding of, and support for, government activities.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: MNS 205 and MTH 210

An introduction to the fundamentals of business analytics. Focuses on the management science approach for problem solving, the application of linear programming, the use of decision analysis techniques, as well as project management tools. It is practical and students gain advanced skills in Excel. This course is a prerequisite for MGT 451.

4.5 Quarter Units

The course discusses the theories and roles of nonprofits in public administration. It explores the relationships between nonprofits and the public sector; and sources of revenue. Discusses the public policies towards the nonprofit sector and the ethical issues surrounding the sector.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: ACC 201

A study of the specialized accounting principles applicable to state and local governments and other non-profit organizations, with an emphasis on fund accounting principles used in the recording of assets, liabilities, equity, revenues and expenditures. Also covers the analysis and interpretation of financial statements of such governmental and nonprofit entities.

4.5 Quarter Units

Analysis of constant and continuous change in modern organizational environments. This class will provide students with the skills needed to recognize the potential impacts of change on their organizations, and to lead their organizations through the change process effectively. Students will develop skills in assessing organizational culture and learn to create the learning organization of the future.

4.5 Quarter Units

An overview of the issues of quality applied to human resources management, topics include the delegation of authority and empowerment, work groups, team building, and employee involvement, reward/recognition programs and employee morale, and the importance of written and oral communication skill in the delegation, sharing, and execution of work. Students gain a clearer understanding of the ways the workplace is changing to improve productivity and profitability.

4.5 Quarter Units

Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of 36qu of BPA major coursework.

Supervised senior project undertaken by students of public administration when they have completed all core courses in the program. Coordinated by full-time faculty and chaired by a public administration faculty member chosen by the student from previous courses taken within the program. Students select a viable topic in public administration to research and then meet with their chair once a week for two months. Upon completion, students present their project to chair, other faculty and peers in an open forum. Accelerated study is not permitted with this course. PAD405 is two months in length. Students who do not complete the Senior Project within the two-month period are eligible, at the discretion of the instructor, to receive a grade of “IP” with a maximum of a one-time, six-month extension. Students who do not complete the project at the end of the extension period will need to retake the course. Grading is by H, S, or U only. Course is eligible for an “IP” grade.

Upper-Division Electives

4 Courses

Students are encouraged to take any minors or electives in the following prefix areas: CJA, MGT, HRM, ODV, LAW, ACC, FIN, BKM, HUB, LED, and ECO.

Career Outlook

Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.

Here are some careers this degree could prepare you for:

Please select the state you will work in to view job data in your area

  • Top Jobs in this field
  • Median Salary
  • Job Openings
  • General and Operations Managers

  • $100,939

    avg. salary (USA)

  • 320,505

    job openings (past yr.) past year
Plan, direct, or coordinate the operations of public or private sector organizations, overseeing multiple departments or locations. Duties and responsibilities include formulating policies, managing daily operations, and planning the use of materials and human resources, but are too diverse and general in nature to be classified in any one functional area of management or administration, such as personnel, purchasing, or administrative services. Usually manage through subordinate supervisors. Excludes First-Line Supervisors.
Median Salary:
$100,939 annual +110% above US average
Job Openings:
320,505 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $46,094
  • Medium
    $100,939
  • High
    $231,886

ALl of USAMost Desired Skills

  1. Operations Management
  2. Marketing
  3. Finance
  4. Project Management
  5. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
  6. Continuous Improvement Process
  7. Auditing

ALl of USATop Companies Hiring

  • CVS Health
  • AutoZone
  • Enterprise Mobility
  • Enterprise Rent-A-Car
  • Marriott International
  • Penske Automotive Group
  • Menards
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
  • Administrative Services Managers

  • $106,287

    avg. salary (USA)

  • 21,903

    job openings (past yr.) past year
Plan, direct, or coordinate one or more administrative services of an organization, such as records and information management, mail distribution, and other office support services.
Median Salary:
$106,287 annual +121% above US average
Job Openings:
21,903 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $62,335
  • Medium
    $106,287
  • High
    $188,955

ALl of USAMost Desired Skills

  1. Office Management
  2. Accounting
  3. Billing
  4. Accounts Receivable
  5. Finance
  6. Administrative Support
  7. Accounts Payable

ALl of USATop Companies Hiring

  • Aramark
  • Grease Monkey
  • Lithia Motors
  • Cintas
  • Brookdale Senior Living
  • Cushman & Wakefield
  • City of New York
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
  • Transportation and Storage Managers

  • $97,888

    avg. salary (USA)

  • 19,112

    job openings (past yr.) past year
Plan, direct, or coordinate transportation, storage, or distribution activities in accordance with organizational policies and applicable government laws or regulations. Includes logistics managers.
Median Salary:
$97,888 annual +103% above US average
Job Openings:
19,112 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $57,659
  • Medium
    $97,888
  • High
    $175,171

ALl of USAMost Desired Skills

  1. Warehousing
  2. Warehouse Operations
  3. Inventory Management
  4. Supply Chain
  5. Project Management
  6. Continuous Improvement Process
  7. Inventory Control

ALl of USATop Companies Hiring

  • Amazon
  • US Foods
  • Lowe's
  • Domino's Pizza
  • Deutsche Post DHL Group
  • Waste Management
  • Sysco
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
  • Medical and Health Services Managers

  • $109,116

    avg. salary (USA)

  • 59,306

    job openings (past yr.) past year
Plan, direct, or coordinate medical and health services in hospitals, clinics, managed care organizations, public health agencies, or similar organizations.
Median Salary:
$109,116 annual +127% above US average
Job Openings:
59,306 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $66,326
  • Medium
    $109,116
  • High
    $217,876

ALl of USAMost Desired Skills

  1. Nursing
  2. Care Coordination
  3. Medical Records
  4. Electronic Medical Record
  5. Billing
  6. Social Work
  7. Auditing

ALl of USATop Companies Hiring

  • UnitedHealth Group
  • HCA Healthcare
  • Merck & Co.
  • Elevance Health
  • Optum
  • Theoria Medical
  • Humana
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
  • Social and Community Service Managers

  • $76,025

    avg. salary (USA)

  • 20,398

    job openings (past yr.) past year
Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of a social service program or community outreach organization. Oversee the program or organization's budget and policies regarding participant involvement, program requirements, and benefits. Work may involve directing social workers, counselors, or probation officers.
Median Salary:
$76,025 annual +58% above US average
Job Openings:
20,398 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $47,223
  • Medium
    $76,025
  • High
    $132,028

ALl of USAMost Desired Skills

  1. Social Work
  2. Human Services
  3. Psychology
  4. Discharge Planning
  5. Long-Term Care
  6. Case Management
  7. Mental Health

ALl of USATop Companies Hiring

  • YMCA
  • Genesis HealthCare
  • State of South Carolina
  • BrightSpring Health Services
  • The Salvation Army
  • State of Minnesota
  • Boys & Girls Clubs Of Northeast Florida
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
  • Project Management Specialists

  • $98,236

    avg. salary (USA)

  • 78,005

    job openings (past yr.) past year
Analyze and coordinate the schedule, timeline, procurement, staffing, and budget of a product or service on a per project basis. Lead and guide the work of technical staff. May serve as a point of contact for the client or customer.
Median Salary:
$98,236 annual +104% above US average
Job Openings:
78,005 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $56,945
  • Medium
    $98,236
  • High
    $165,323

ALl of USAMost Desired Skills

  1. Project Management
  2. Construction
  3. Construction Management
  4. Subcontracting
  5. Project Schedules
  6. Project Planning
  7. Change Orders

ALl of USATop Companies Hiring

  • CBRE
  • Black & Veatch
  • Lumen Technologies
  • GovCIO
  • Entergy
  • Accenture
  • Deloitte
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
  • Management Analysts

  • $100,961

    avg. salary (USA)

  • 116,342

    job openings (past yr.) past year
Conduct organizational studies and evaluations, design systems and procedures, conduct work simplification and measurement studies, and prepare operations and procedures manuals to assist management in operating more efficiently and effectively. Includes program analysts and management consultants.
Median Salary:
$100,961 annual +110% above US average
Job Openings:
116,342 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $53,127
  • Medium
    $100,961
  • High
    $219,693

ALl of USAMost Desired Skills

  1. Project Management
  2. Business Process
  3. Business Requirements
  4. Data Analysis
  5. Business Analysis
  6. Agile Methodology
  7. Process Improvement

ALl of USATop Companies Hiring

  • Wells Fargo
  • Elevance Health
  • Deloitte
  • Lincoln Financial Group
  • Accenture
  • Cardinal Health
  • USAA
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
  • Training and Development Specialists

  • $64,410

    avg. salary (USA)

  • 38,669

    job openings (past yr.) past year
Design or conduct work-related training and development programs to improve individual skills or organizational performance. May analyze organizational training needs or evaluate training effectiveness.
Median Salary:
$64,410 annual +34% above US average
Job Openings:
38,669 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $35,803
  • Medium
    $64,410
  • High
    $118,030

ALl of USAMost Desired Skills

  1. Project Management
  2. Learning Management Systems
  3. Curriculum Development
  4. Technical Training
  5. Adult Education
  6. Instructional Design
  7. Marketing

ALl of USATop Companies Hiring

  • Whole Foods
  • GAF Materials Corporation
  • Boys & Girls Clubs Of America
  • Deloitte
  • Cracker Barrel
  • Reynolds & Reynolds
  • Amazon
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
  • Operations Research Analysts

  • $91,402

    avg. salary (USA)

  • 10,812

    job openings (past yr.) past year
Formulate and apply mathematical modeling and other optimizing methods to develop and interpret information that assists management with decisionmaking, policy formulation, or other managerial functions. May collect and analyze data and develop decision support software, services, or products. May develop and supply optimal time, cost, or logistics networks for program evaluation, review, or implementation.
Median Salary:
$91,402 annual +90% above US average
Job Openings:
10,812 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $53,720
  • Medium
    $91,402
  • High
    $160,547

ALl of USAMost Desired Skills

  1. Process Improvement
  2. Continuous Improvement Process
  3. Project Management
  4. Data Analysis
  5. Finance
  6. Workflow Management
  7. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

ALl of USATop Companies Hiring

  • Lumen Technologies
  • GAF Materials Corporation
  • USAA
  • Citigroup
  • Bank of America
  • Confluent
  • Allied Universal
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.
  • Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers

  • $63,191

    avg. salary (USA)

  • 156,268

    job openings (past yr.) past year
Directly supervise and coordinate the activities of clerical and administrative support workers.
Median Salary:
$63,191 annual +31% above US average
Job Openings:
156,268 past year
Salary Range:
  • Low
    $40,733
  • Medium
    $63,191
  • High
    $100,503

ALl of USAMost Desired Skills

  1. Office Management
  2. Marketing
  3. Billing
  4. Accounting
  5. Auditing
  6. Invoicing
  7. Workflow Management

ALl of USATop Companies Hiring

  • TJX
  • Edward Jones
  • Public Storage
  • Walmart
  • Michaels
  • Abercrombie & Fitch
  • Whole Foods
Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.

Program Learning Outcomes

Learn the key skills to help you excel in your field of study.

  • Synthesize the theories of public administration.
  • Analyze the operations and procedures of public management and nonprofits.
  • Develop skills in managing a public sector or nonprofit organization.
  • Apply the theories and practices in program and resource management.
  • Apply the theories and practices of accounting and budgeting in government and nonprofits.
  • Evaluate the role of community groups in local government.
  • Analyze ethical situations in the public sector.
  • Utilize research process to address a current problem in public administration.
  • Collect data, conduct a literature review, analyze data, write and explain findings, and present results orally and/or in writing.

NU’s Public Safety Promise

National University, a Veteran-founded nonprofit, is proud to support public safety professionals who protect and serve our communities every day. To show appreciation, we commit to providing affordable, accessible education to all public safety professionals to advance their careers and help them reach educational goals through our Public Safety Promise Scholarship*.

To learn more about NU’s Public Safety Promise contact an enrollment advisor to discuss degree programs and scholarship options or visit https://www.nu.edu/our-university/the-university/partnerships/publicsafety/ .

*Nursing, radiation therapy, and doctoral programs are excluded from the tuition discount.

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Admissions

Transfer Students Welcome

More about transferring to NU.

Enrolling in a university is a big decision. That’s why our dedicated admissions team is here to guide you through the admissions process and help you find the right program for you and your career goals.

To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.

Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, and international student admissions, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.

To speak with our admissions team, call (855) 355-6288 or request information and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply, simply start your application today.

APPLY NOW
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Pricing

The cost shown is the estimated price for this degree. Many National University students are eligible for scholarships or financial aid, which may substantially lower a degree program’s cost.

You can visit our Tuition Estimator to see what scholarships and discounts are available and get more information about expected costs. You can also start the application process and receive counseling from our Enrollment team on the costs of your degree

Open Tuition Estimator

Scholarships and Financial Aid

National University is dedicated to making higher education affordable, as well as accessible. Through NU scholarship offerings, eligible students are able to reduce the financial burden of college, start classes sooner, and finish their programs faster while focusing on achieving their goals.

Helping You Save Money

1:1 assistance for navigating the financial aid process, generous transfer credit policy, needs-based tuition reduction grant, and $77+ million in scholarships.

National University Key Grant

Do you qualify for a needs-based scholarship? Learn more about the NU Key Grant Scholarship and other scholarship opportunities to unlock the door to your dreams!

Accreditations

WASC Senior College and University Commission logo

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.

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Why National University?

We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners.

Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 245,000 alumni worldwide.

headshot of Francisco, class of 2016

“The BPA program at National University has been a profound experience, expanding my understanding of topics relating to urban environment, government operations, and even social justice. The program encompasses the foundations of the public sector while also empowering students with the knowledge to make positive contributions in their future endeavors.”

Erika Torres.,

2021 Graduate

What makes a degree
with National University unique?

Free Tutoring Sessions

Access personalized tutoring sessions at no cost — empowering your learning.

Online and In-Person

Flexibility meets quality education with our online and in-person learning options.

24/7 Support

Get assistance anytime, anywhere with our round-the-clock support services.

Military Friendly

Committed to serving those who serve — diverse resources and support for veterans and family. Military and Veteran Admissions.

Mentoring Network

Individual student and alumni career guidance, professional development opportunities, and customized career support.

Transfer Students Welcome

NU makes it easy to get your degree, even if you started it with another university. Learn more about transferring to NU.

Accelerate Your Career With NU

At National University, you’re part of a family. As a student, you’ll have the support of staff, faculty members, students, and alumni who will be there with you every step of the way, cheering you on as you pursue your goals.

Our network of 245,000 alumni is a large global community that provides our graduates with the professional connections to get a leg up in your new career.

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FAQs

Public administration is a high-growth career field offering a diverse range of opportunities for professionals who have a strong foundation in public management, ethical leadership, and local, state and federal procedures and practices.

Public Administrators oversee budgets and allocations of resources and services in a variety of capacities to implement public policy within public governments and companies that provide services to support their efforts. Backgrounds and knowledge in finance, accounting, and auditing reflect the importance of budget related skills.

Key skills associated with BS in Public Administration are:

  • Public Administration
  • Finance
  • Accounting
  • Auditing
  • Strategic Planning
  • Social Work
  • Economics
  • Data Analysis
  • Procurement, Purchasing, Financial Tracking
  • Human Services

The public sector is always in need of professionals with the rigorous training to meet the complexities of the management of public programs and assets. Your career path could include teaching or training assignments, research, or a variety of roles within government and nonprofit organizations including business administrators, government relations managers, budget specialist, policy analyst, and many others.

According to Emsi labor market analytics and economic data1, employers seeking Bachelor of Public Administration graduates are primarily public sector entities or contractors who provide consultation and software solutions. Emsi also confirms some of the top job titles for professionals who have earned this degree include:

  • Federal (US Government, US Dept of Veterans Affairs)
  • State Government Administrations
  • City Government Administrations
  • Nonprofit Social Assistance Organizations
  • Local Government Services Providers
  • Management Consulting Companies

SOURCE: Emsi Labor Analyst- Report. Emsi research company homepage at https://www.economicmodeling.com/company/ (Report viewed: 2/17/2022). DISCLAIMER: The data provided is for Informational purposes only. Emsi data and analysis utilizes government sources to provide insights on industries, demographics, employers, in-demand skills, and more to align academic programs with labor market opportunities. Cited projections may not reflect local or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth. Current and prospective students should use this data with other available economic data to inform their educational decisions.

The general education program consists of a minimum of 70.5 quarter units. Of the 70.5 units, students must complete at least 4.5 units at the upper-division level and 4.5 units in diversity-enriched coursework. To prepare for the major, students must complete:

  • MNS 205* Intro to Quantitative Methods
  • ECO 203* Principles of Microeconomics
  • ACC 201 Financial Accounting Funds

* May be used to meet a General Education requirement.

National University’s unique Bachelor in Public Administration degree blends central theories of public administration with business operations and management. You’ll learn ways to apply public administration practices to program and resource management and understand accounting and budgeting for government agencies and nonprofits.*

Career Opportunities in the Public Administration Field

  • Administrative officer
  • City manager
  • County administrator
  • Department head
  • Grant administrator
  • Financial manager
  • Government community relations specialist
  • Government office manager
  • Planning/development director
  • Public policy analyst
  • Urban planning manager

Employers of Public Administration Graduates

  • Local, state, and federal government
  • Urban planners
  • Chamber of commerce
  • Business and industry
  • Nonprofit organizations

*SOURCE: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, the internet, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/social-and-community-service-managers.htm (viewed May 19, 2022)

Cited projections may not reflect local or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

National University has always been dedicated to meeting the needs of working adult learners. While earning your degree is important to your future, you don’t need to put your life on hold to do so. The Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) can be completed 100% online, so you can study when and where it’s most convenient for you. You will engage with faculty weekly and participate in discussions with faculty and classmates on online discussion boards. Quizzes and exams are completed online, and you can submit your assignments directly to your professors through the online portal.

Students who are currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Public Administration program, have a GPA of at least 3.0, and are within six courses of graduation may register for the BPA/MPA transition program by taking two MPA classes as electives during the BPA program. To be eligible, students must apply for and begin the MPA program within six months of completing their BPA program. Students may choose up to two of the graduate-level public administration courses (with the exception of PAD 631 and PAD 644).For students in the BPA/MPA transition program, the university will waive up to two graduate-level public administration courses taken as part of the bachelor’s degree, but these students must still meet the residency requirements for the MPA. Students must complete graduate-level coursework taken as part of the BPA degree with a grade of “B” or better.

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Program Disclosure

Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.

Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.

NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.

All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.

National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.

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