Public administration is a field of study and practice that deals with the management and implementation of government policies and programs. It involves the organization, coordination, and supervision of public services and activities to ensure the effective and efficient delivery of public goods and services to citizens.
Public administration encompasses various areas, including policy analysis, budgeting, human resource management, public finance, public policy implementation, and public sector ethics. It focuses on the development and implementation of policies and programs that address public needs and promote the public interest.
A Brief History of Public Administration
Public administration has a rich historical backdrop that has shaped its present-day significance. Understanding this history helps us contextualize why public administration is important today and why it will continue to be important in the future.
Dating back to ancient civilizations, governments have recognized the need for organized systems to manage public affairs. In antiquity, public affairs offices maintained order and supported public well-being. Modern public administration, as we know it today, owes its roots to the progressive reforms of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the establishment of more formalized structures and processes that paved the way for the discipline’s growth.
Today, public administration touches much of our lives, though we may not recognize its direct impact day-to-day. For example, leaders in public administration service are responsible for things like developing and spearheading community recreation and education projects, administering and funding food and housing programs, and allocating funds for other local and federal public service efforts.
Thus, public administration is crucial for the optimum functioning of governments at all levels, as well as for serving the best interest of the communities these organizations govern. From local governments to global politics, we see public administration’s significance in the delivery of services, the maintenance of ethical standards and regulations, and the responsible use of public resources.
Why Study Public Administration?
Studying public administration offers numerous benefits, both personally and professionally. Pursuing a public administration degree provides an avenue to make a meaningful impact on society and opens doors to a wide range of career paths. By understanding and actively participating in the management of public affairs, individuals can contribute to creating effective policies, improving public services, and driving social change.
Students hone critical skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, communication, and leadership in this degree program, all of which are highly transferable and applicable across various sectors, making public administration graduates valuable assets in today’s competitive job market.
Our areas of specialization
Public administration incorporates a broad spectrum of subjects that equip students with a comprehensive understanding of governance and public policy. Some key topics within the field include:
▪Criminal Justice
▪Health Policy and Administration
▪Higher Education Administration
▪ International Policy and Administration
▪ Local Government Administration
▪Nonprofit Administration
▪Public Budgeting and Financial Management
▪Public Management/Organization Theory
▪Public Policy
University of Georgia’s Master of Public Administration Program
Considering a graduate degree in public management? The University of Georgia’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in public sector management and research across all levels.
Why Pursue an MPA from UGA?
- A legacy of excellence: The School of Public and International Affairs’ MPA program has a history of achievement, consistently ranking among the top ten accredited programs. In 2023, U.S. News & World Report ranked the University of Georgia as #7 in the Best Public Affairs Programs category.
- All levels of experience welcome: Whatever stage you’re at in your career, UGA’s MPA degree is an option for you. The program is available to students with no prior experience in public service, as well as those working in the public sector and aiming to progress in their careers.
- Optional GRE testing: Whether you’re a domestic or international applicant, if your GPA, as calculated by the UGA Graduate School, falls at or above 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, we don’t require you to submit GRE test scores.
- Internship opportunities: As a UGA MPA student, you complete a public service internship as part of your degree. After finishing your internship in a public sector government agency or nonprofit organization, submit a paper on the experience to summarize what you learned and highlight your accomplishments.
Learn More about Our Public Administration Master’s Program
Ready to learn more about advancing your skills in a rigorous and comprehensive MPA program? Take the next step by requesting more information about the University of Georgia’s Master of Public Administration degree.
