PA 2170 Introduction to Public Administration

Course Description

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the public administration discipline. We will navigate the key concepts and the distinct nature of the field while exploring recent developments in public administration. The course will explore the foundations, management, financing, nonprofit sector, and ethics that will introduce students to the broad nature of the field.

Course Objectives

• To introduce students to public administration as a distinct field
• To introduce students to the study and practice of public administration in the United States
• To acquaint students with key concepts, and developments of public administration
• To introduce the general context of public administration (process of decision-making, interplay with the legislative and executive branches, the relationship with different layers of government, and the linkage with the citizens
• To foster understanding of the different sectors and their functions in any economy, and the role of public administration
• To foster interest in the discipline and familiarize students with public organizations and their intricacies.
• To introduce some “successful” administrators to students.

At the end of this class, students must be able to

• Distinguish the different sectors, identify how and where the different sectors merge, and the dominant role(s) of public administration.
• Be able to write critically and present findings of major challenges facing public and nonprofit organizations.
• Learn about some successful people in the public administration discipline.