This course provides an understanding of U.S. administrative law and procedures as well as a survey of the history and current state of the bureaucracy. The role of agency discretion and practice of bureaucracy in a democratic society is also considered.

This course provides a graduate level introduction to the field of public administration. Topics covered include the practices of government, the principles of management, the ethics of leadership, and an overview of current pressing issues in the field.

This course explores the theories and boundaries of scientific investigation, covering both quantitative and qualitative analytical methods, as well as research design and execution. It promotes critical examination of the research informing policy suggestions and familiarizes students with diverse social science research methodologies, aiding them in crafting their own research endeavors in their respective field.

This course equips the student to strategize as a leader that reaches across the public, private, and social sectors to collaborate in solving complex societal problems. Students will gain a thorough understanding of cross-sector collaboration theory, policy, and practical application as they explore their own leadership strengths as applied to the skills needed and processes involved in initiating, sustaining, and evolving partnerships.

This course provides an essential overview of public budgeting and financial management, tailored for public administration graduates. Students will explore the budgeting process, stakeholders, and strategies, while also gaining practical skills in budget analysis and preparation. Topics include revenue sources, expenditure planning, fiscal policy, and performance evaluation. By course end, students will be equipped to navigate public sector finances effectively.

A study of the policymaking process in the United States, illustrated by an in-depth study of contemporary public policy issues. We will discuss theories and policies, as well as critiques of them, in terms of equality, democracy, and citizenship. Students will then become a "policymaker" and a "policy analyst."

This course offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of community and economic development fundamentals. Students will explore major theories and historical contexts, while learning to select and utilize tools for assessing community profiles and assets. Emphasis is placed on developing research, analytical, and communication skills essential for community planning practitioners. Additionally, the course covers factors supporting development, including human, social, physical, financial, political, environmental, and cultural capital.

Students in this course will build their communication skills across various contemporary platforms with a focus on the principles of public relations, marketing, and advertising within the context of public service communication and education campaigns for nonprofit organizations. Practical applications include memos, presentations, press releases, briefs, and a social media strategy. Relevant areas are covered such as public safety, education, public health, social welfare, environmental concerns, and community development.

This course equips students to build and assess program evaluations reflecting the values, goals, and desired outcomes of implementation. Topics covered will include how to utilize evaluation findings to improve programs, and reporting for grants requiring oversight.

In this capstone course, students will demonstrate mastery of skills related to the discipline of public administration through a program evaluation or policy analysis project developed in collaboration with an agency or organization of their choosing.