Public Administration and Community Management (MA)

Summary

A multidisciplinary degree program oriented toward examining and understanding the broad range of problems and opportunities associated with the nation's urban and regional areas. Students in the degree program may prepare themselves for professional leadership careers in local government management and public administration, or use the degree as preparation for Ph.D. study. The program requirements are designed to provide flexibility while ensuring a multidisciplinary, problem-solving perspective. 

Catalog Year

2024-2025

Degree

Master of Arts

Major Credits

36

Total Credits

36

Locations

Mankato

Career Cluster

Government and Public Administration

Accreditation

NASPAA

Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration

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Program Requirements

Common Core

Complete a minimum of 15 credits

This course is a survey of the local community--the forces which shape it, the significance of a democratic public, and professional practice of local government service.

Prerequisites: none

This course is designed to develop the skills needed to gather, analyze, and present information for resolving applied problems in local government and community settings.

Prerequisites: none

This course will cover the concepts and methods of conducting applied social science research focused on local government and public administration applications.

Prerequisites: none

An advanced learning experience working in small group settings on applied projects and problem solving. The team project produced in the studio meets graduate student's capstone project requirements.

Prerequisites: none

Scheduled work assignments varying in length and content under the supervision of selected professional sponsors.

Prerequisites: none

Restricted Electives

Choose 12 Credit(s).

This course is designed for students preparing for a professinal career in local government or public service, focuses on media relations and building citizen involvement through public awareness projects.

Prerequisites: none

An examination of modern principles and techniques of leadership and management. Emphasis is placed on the interactive style of leadership and behavioral concepts of management.

Prerequisites: none

This course provides a set of concepts and tools to consider the design and development of public sector policies and decision making.

Prerequisites: none

Changing nature of management of urban and human behavior in the municipal organization. Emphasis on the development of decision-making and communication skills.

Prerequisites: none

Provides an overview of urban administrative services with an emphasis on urban finance systems and human resource management. Examines the economic and human resource environment for local government managers' decision-making.

Prerequisites: none

Course examines financial management utilizing accurate forecasting, fund accounting and fiscal reporting. Covers budget cycle including legal limitations on local taxation, expenditures, and debt financing.

Prerequisites: none

Unrestricted Electives

Choose 9 Credit(s). Student chooses courses from URSI, POL, or other departments with consent of advisor