Online public administration programs teach students the necessary skills to effectively manage the day-to-day activities of government and other public agencies. These programs are geared towards natural-born leaders who have a desire to manage on a public level. Public administration degrees are available at the associate, baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral levels, while select schools may offer a certificate option.

Those who graduate with a certificate or degree in public administration may be qualified to seek employment in social services, government, politics, or non-profit organizations. Public administration programs may provide the skills needed for a career as a human resources manager, finance manager, budget analyst, general operations manager, or a city planner.

Available Degree Levels

• Certificate: One to two years to complete
• Associate Degree: Four years to complete
• Bachelor’s Degree: Four years to complete
• Master’s Degree: One to two years to complete
• Doctoral Degree: Three to five years to complete

An online certificate in public administration is geared towards professionals currently in a managerial role or those who want to reach a managerial level in their career. These programs may teach individuals the skills needed to effectively manage a number of public services, such as social services or public works. Coursework may include budgeting basics, information management, and supervision practices.

An associate degree program in public administration may provide a comprehensive overview of public administration, and may prepare students to obtain a higher degree in the field. Coursework for these programs may include introduction to urban studies, introduction to public administration, and organizational leadership.

An online bachelor’s degree in public administration may provide the skills needed to manage and oversee government policy, economic development, and social issues. These programs may provide a basic overview of public administration and the process of strategy implementation for effective policy. Coursework may include public administration ethics and theory, municipal government operations, and social issues in economic policy.

Master’s-level programs in public administration are geared towards individuals who are interested in becoming leaders within the public sector. These programs may teach management and leadership skills that emphasize public value, ethical decision-making, and diversity. Coursework may include public administration and management, research and writing in public administration, and human resources management.

Doctoral programs in public administration may serve as a stepping-stone for a career in research or teaching. Students may choose to study a specific field of public administration, such as public policy, justice, and American politics. Coursework may include public budgeting and fiscal administration, public organization theory, and innovations of public management.

Career Options

Online public administration programs may arm students with the skills to seek employment in many public professions. Graduates may be qualified to work in social services, government, politics, or in non-profit organizations. Individuals who study public administration may learn the skills needed to effectively manage the day-to-day activities of local government.

Possible career fields include:

• Human Resources Manager
• Finance Manager
• Budget Analyst
• General Operations Manager
• City Manager