Build the Systems That Serve Communities
Where planning, policy, and administration meet to drive effective public impact.
The Public Administration track prepares students to manage public programs and government operations that deliver essential services and strengthen communities. Offered through the interdisciplinary Public Service BA in partnership with the School of Public and International Affairs, this track develops practical skills in budgeting, human resources, and public sector planning for careers in local, state, and federal government.
Degree Requirements
Earn a minimum of 120 credits for the Bachelor of Arts. The Public Service major makes up 33 of those credits, plus statistics and related-field coursework.
*Or another field approved by an academic advisor.
View Related Field Electives (PDF) → Browse the Course Catalog →
In addition to the 33-credit major: Students complete the University's General Education requirements and additional coursework needed to reach the 120 credits required for the degree. Explore the General Education program.
Public Service Core Courses (15 Credits)
All five courses are required.
PUBSRV 0020 – Introduction to Public Service
PUBSRV 0030 – Public Policy ProcessOr: PIA 0101 HOW PUBLIC POLICY WORKS: FOUNDATIONS OF PUBLIC POLICY
PUBSRV 0040 – Public Service Technologies
PUBSRV 0050 – Ethics and Accountability
PUBSRV 1900 – Internship Seminar
Note: This major requires that you complete an internship at a facility external to the University, and this facility may or will require a criminal background check, an Act 33/34 clearance, and perhaps a drug screen to determine whether you are qualified to participate in the internship. Additionally, in order to become licensed or employed, many states will inquire as to whether the applicant has been convicted of a misdemeanor, a felony, or a felonious or illegal act associated with alcohol and/or substance abuse.
Track Curriculum (18 Credits)
Students complete 18 credits in the Public Administration track, including required courses and electives.
Required Courses (12 Credits)
All four courses are required.
PUBSRV 1100 – Practices in Public AdministrationOr: PUBSRV 1200 PRACTICES OF NON-PROFIT MANAGEMENT when PUBSRV 1100 is not offered.
PUBSRV 1110 – Financial Management in the Public Sector
PUBSRV 1120 – Human Resources Management in the Public Sector
PUBSRV 1130 – Planning in the Public Sector
Electives (6 Credits)
Select two additional approved Public Service electives to complete the Public Administration track requirements.
PIA 0201 – How to Identify Better Policy: Foundations for Policy Analysis
PUBSRV 1200 – Practices of Non-Profit Management
PUBSRV 1210 – Financial Management of Non-Profit Organizations
PUBSRV 1220 – Human Resource Management of Non-Profit Organizations
PUBSRV 1230 – Fundraising for Non-Profit Organizations
PUBSRV 1300 – Legal Issues in Public ServiceNote: Cross-listed with LCJS 1854
PUBHLT 1305 – Health, Law and EthicsNote: Formerly PUBSRV 1305, new subject effective Fall 2026
PUBSRV 1310 – Diversity Issues in Public ServiceOr: PIA 1102 CITY OF WHITE SUPREMACY: RACE, SPACE, AND POLICY IN AMERICAN CITIES
PUBSRV 1315 – Managing Projects and Contracts
PUBSRV 1340 – Strategic Planning Public Sector
PUBSRV 1390 – Theories of LeadershipNote: Cross-listed with LDRSHP 1100
PUBSRV 1455 – Law, Ethics and Public Policy in the Mass Media
PUBSRV 1901 – Independent Study
PUBSRV 1910 – Institute of Politics Internship/SeminarNote: PUBSRV 1910 may be used in place of PUBSRV 1900. Student must be selected for an IOP internship. Learn about the IOP Internship Program.
Plan Your Path
Use these resources to understand your Public Administration major requirements, explore course options, and plan your path toward completing your degree.
Planning Resources
Use the Public Service Checklist (PDF) to plan your courses, internships, and career path.
Download Checklist (PDF) »Flexible Learning Options
Gain public administration skills through a mix of in-person and online courses designed to fit your schedule.
View Online Courses »Gain Experience Beyond the Classroom
Build practical skills, explore your interests, and connect your Public Service degree to real-world experiences.
Internships
As a public service major, you’ll get hands-on experience in the field with a local, state, government, or nonprofit organization. As a valuable networking opportunity, an internship could also pave the way for employment opportunities.
Learn more about internships »Global Experiences
Get a global perspective on public service. Gain cross-cultural experiences and learn about international nonprofit organizations by spending a term, summer, or short break abroad.
Explore study abroad opportunities »