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Public Administration, B.A.

Make positive changes in the world with a meaningful career in public service or nonprofit management.

This interdisciplinary program combines political science, business and sociology coursework to help you develop a distinctive set of managerial and operational skills to work for community or charitable organizations or for various branches of government. You will learn theories and practices of federal, state and local government administration as well as a range of business management skills and how to apply these tools in diverse settings.

At A Glance

Program: Bachelor of Arts
Audience: Undergraduate students
Format: Face-to-face classes
Next Start Date: August 26, 2024
Time to Completion Four years

"The first day that I arrived at Immaculata University, everyone that I encountered was friendly and was willingly helpful to show me around campus. I received a good vibe that I did not get at other colleges and universities that I visited. The size of the campus fits my needs in the way that all the buildings are nearby at a perfect distance. As a student, I love how the classes are small enough and the professors are extremely helpful when it comes to giving their individual attention to the students."

Richard Fontanillas

Career Outlook

Public administration is a growing field, with high demand for new talent, according to private and public job tracking surveys in public and nonprofit administration in the last decade. Your degree will prepare you to manage operations, implement policies and offer programs and services through a government or nonprofit organization. You can explore career paths in these broad areas:

  • Public policy and governance
  • Community planning and land use
  • Public resource management and budgeting
  • Regulation, auditing and investigation
  • Revenue and tax collection
  • Foreign service and diplomacy

Find satisfaction in working for the common good by pursuing a position in a sector you’re passionate about, such as commerce, security, energy, research, transportation, labor, agriculture, justice and more.

Working in the public sector also provides excellent benefits, such as opportunities for student loan forgiveness, outstanding job security and options for career advancement.

You will take courses in management and leadership, human resources, economics, public sector accounting and finance, American politics, public policy, sociology, and leadership during crisis. Your classes will discuss current issues in public sector management as well as the role of administrators in developing and implementing public policy.

Practical Experience—You will hone your skills through one or more internships, assisting with research, outreach and communications tasks common to public-facing organizations. Internship opportunities are available at local, county and state governments and executive offices; legislative offices; advocacy groups; or public policy and election campaigns.

Applied Research—You will conduct applied research projects and write a senior thesis. This will benefit your resume and give you an advantage, whether you continue your studies in graduate school or seek employment in public administration. This program provides an excellent foundation for a master’s degree in public administration or policy, which is a common requirement for advancement in the public sector.

Civic Engagement—You will have opportunities to grow as an active citizen who promotes ethical, responsible citizenship in your community, while cultivating an understanding of cultural and political diversity, world affairs and global interconnectedness.

Pre-law Studies—Immaculata offers a pre-law program and legal studies minor, which enable students to complete a course sequence focused on legal principles, legal and political institutions, and advanced reasoning and communications skills. Pre-law students who meet program requirements are eligible for our accelerated 3+3-year program with Widener University Delaware Law School, with guaranteed admission and merit scholarships to the law school, and accelerated completion of their bachelor’s degree and J.D. in six years instead of seven.

Just The Facts

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