Public Administration

The University of Delaware offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Administration designed to prepare students for careers in public service, government, non-profit organizations, and related fields. This program provides students with a solid foundation in the principles and practices of public administration, emphasizing the development of essential skills such as leadership, policy analysis, organizational management, and ethical decision-making. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, experiential learning opportunities, and internships, students gain practical insights into the functioning of government agencies and nonprofit entities, equipping them to address complex social issues and contribute to effective public governance.

The curriculum encompasses core areas including public policy, administrative law, budgeting and financial management, human resource management, and public sector ethics. Students also have opportunities to specialize or deepen their understanding through elective courses in areas such as urban planning, environmental policy, health administration, and emergency management. The program encourages active engagement with contemporary challenges faced by public institutions, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills vital for leadership roles.

In addition to classroom learning, the University of Delaware emphasizes experiential education; students are encouraged to participate in internships, service learning projects, and research initiatives that connect academic concepts with real-world applications. The program benefits from strong ties with local, state, and federal agencies, providing students valuable networking and career development opportunities. Graduates of the Public Administration program are well-equipped to pursue advanced degrees or launch professional careers in public service, policy analysis, non-profit management, or government administration.

Faculty members bring a wealth of professional experience and scholarly expertise to the classroom, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education grounded in current public administration practices and theories. The program aims not only to prepare students for employment but also to inspire them to become ethical, innovative, and committed public servants dedicated to improving communities and fostering sustainable development. Overall, the University of Delaware’s Public Administration degree offers a comprehensive, experiential, and future-oriented education designed to meet the demands of a dynamic public sector landscape.

Core Courses

There are four areas of specializations in the M.P.A. Program. Each specialization has its own course requirements and electives. The areas of specialization are:
- Nonprofit Management
- Public Policy and Management
- Emergency Management
- Student-Designed Specialization (faculty approval required)

​Successful master’s applicants have undergraduate grade point indexes above 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). In addition, the quality and extent of previous related work or volunteer experience, and the motivation to pursue a professional career in public service or disaster science and management (depending upon the program to which you have applied), are particularly important. We look for a good fit between your interests and our programs.

• Applicants to a University of Delaware graduate program must possess (or be in the final year of completing) a U.S. equivalent bachelor’s degree.
• Transcripts
• Test Scores
• 3 Letters of Recommendation
• Write your Graduate Application Essay
• Resume (optional)
• International applicants need to pass the TOEFL (minimum 100, with at least 20 in each section) or IELTS (minimum 7.5, with at least 6.5 in each section) language test, unless they have a postsecondary degree from an institution in an English-speaking country.

Scholarships

• University Fellowships
• University Tuition Scholarships
• Graduate Student Assistantships
• Residence Hall Assistantships
• UD Press Awards Internship

The University of Delaware offers a comprehensive program in Public Administration designed to prepare students for leadership roles in government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. This program emphasizes the development of administrative skills, policy analysis, and an understanding of the political environment in which public organizations operate. Students gain a solid foundation in public management, budgeting, organizational theory, and ethics, enabling them to effectively manage public resources and serve the public interest. The curriculum includes coursework in administrative law, public finance, policy formulation, and program evaluation, providing a well-rounded education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application.

The program is suited for students interested in pursuing careers in local, state, or federal government agencies, non-governmental organizations, or international public service. Through internships and hands-on projects, students have the opportunity to apply their learning in real-world settings, gaining valuable experience and professional connections. The faculty comprises experienced scholars and practitioners who bring a wealth of knowledge and industry insights into the classroom, facilitating a dynamic learning environment.

The University of Delaware’s location benefits students by offering proximity to major governmental and non-profit organizations, enhancing internship and employment prospects post-graduation. The program also encourages students to develop leadership and communication skills essential for effective public service. Graduates of the program are equipped to address complex societal issues, promote good governance, and contribute meaningfully to public policy and administration.

Overall, the Public Administration program at the University of Delaware is committed to fostering ethical, innovative, and competent professionals prepared to serve the public interest in diverse settings. It combines rigorous academic coursework with experiential learning opportunities, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for impactful careers in public service.